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Looking for the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer? Here's what to look for when searching for an attorney.
How to Compare Criminal Trial Experience, Case Results, Attorney Credentials, and Professional Awards
If you've been arrested or charged with a crime in Charlotte, North Carolina, finding the right criminal defense attorney can be one of the most important decisions you make. But with so many law firms advertising criminal defense services, how do you know which lawyer is best qualified to represent you?
The best criminal defense lawyer for your case is an attorney with substantial experience defending similar charges, demonstrated courtroom skills, knowledge of North Carolina criminal law, and a history of thoroughly investigating and challenging criminal allegations.
Awards, professional recognition, client reviews, and documented case results can also help you compare attorneys. However, no single credential determines which lawyer is the right choice for every defendant.
At Jetton & Meredith, PLLC, our attorneys have defended individuals facing criminal charges throughout Charlotte and surrounding North Carolina counties since 2009. Our firm has been voted Charlotte's Best in Criminal Defense, and our criminal defense team has obtained favorable results in cases ranging from DWI and misdemeanor offenses to serious felony charges, including first-degree murder.
1. What Makes a Criminal Defense Attorney One of the Best?
An exceptional criminal defense attorney combines legal knowledge, investigative skills, trial experience, and the ability to build an effective defense around the specific facts of a case.
Not all criminal defense attorneys have the same background. Some focus primarily on negotiating plea agreements, while others have extensive experience litigating contested cases and presenting evidence before judges and juries.
When comparing attorneys, consider these qualifications:
Experience defending the specific criminal charge you face.
Familiarity with local prosecutors and court procedures.
Experience conducting jury trials and contested hearings.
Ability to challenge witness testimony and physical evidence.
Documented criminal case results.
Professional awards, peer recognition, and client feedback.
Communication, accessibility, and willingness to explain legal options.
The right attorney should be prepared to investigate your case, identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and explain realistic defense strategies.
What Sets Jetton & Meredith Apart?
At Jetton & Meredith, our strength goes beyond the experience of one attorney. Founding and Managing Partner Mark S. Jetton, Jr. has built a criminal defense team of experienced trial attorneys and legal professionals who understand how North Carolina's criminal justice system operates, including individuals who previously worked in district attorney's offices and courthouses.
Mark has handled thousands of criminal cases throughout his career, including serious felonies, DWI charges, drug offenses, and violent crime allegations. His experience includes securing not guilty jury verdicts in high-stakes criminal trials. As the firm has grown, he has remained intentional about building a team of hardworking, knowledgeable, and results-driven professionals who share his commitment to protecting clients and providing exceptional legal representation.
Shaefer Shepard — Criminal Defense and Trial Experience in Cabarrus and Iredell Counties
Shaefer A. Shepard is a criminal defense and trial attorney who represents clients throughout Cabarrus and Iredell counties, including Concord, Kannapolis, Statesville, and Mooresville.
As Vice President of the Cabarrus County Bar Association, Shaefer is actively involved in the local legal community and has developed a strong understanding of the courts and judicial procedures in the areas where he practices.
Recognized as a North Carolina Super Lawyers Rising Star and a Business North Carolina Legal Elite attorney, Shaefer approaches criminal defense with a focus on preparation, strategic litigation, and aggressive courtroom advocacy. His local involvement and trial experience make him an important part of Jetton & Meredith's criminal defense team.
Michael Fanous — Former Prosecutor Defending Clients in Mecklenburg and Union Counties
Michael Fanous is a North Carolina criminal defense attorney and former Mecklenburg County Assistant District Attorney who brings experience from both sides of the courtroom.
During his three years as a prosecutor, Michael handled cases involving DWI, domestic violence, serious felonies, and habitual felon allegations, gaining extensive courtroom and jury trial experience.
Today, he uses that background to evaluate criminal cases from a defense perspective. Having previously worked as a prosecutor, Michael understands how the State investigates allegations, evaluates evidence, prepares witnesses, and develops its arguments. This firsthand experience helps him anticipate potential prosecution strategies, identify weaknesses in the evidence, and build individualized defenses for his clients.
A Union County native raised in Weddington, Michael represents individuals facing criminal charges throughout Mecklenburg and Union counties, including Charlotte, Monroe, Waxhaw, and Indian Trail.
Michael also helped secure a not guilty verdict alongside Mark Jetton in a Union County first-degree murder trial in which their client faced life imprisonment without parole.
A Criminal Defense Team Built Around Experience, Preparation, and Client Service
What further distinguishes Jetton & Meredith is the experience behind its attorneys. Mark Jetton has intentionally recruited attorneys and legal support professionals with backgrounds in district attorney's offices, courthouses, and other areas of the criminal justice system.
These experiences provide valuable insight into how criminal cases are processed, how court procedures work, and what clients can expect as their cases move forward.
For our clients, that means having access to a team that understands the legal process and is prepared to answer questions, explain next steps, and provide guidance during an often overwhelming experience.
Mark believes that building an exceptional criminal defense practice requires more than hiring attorneys with impressive credentials. It requires surrounding clients with hardworking, experienced, and motivated professionals who take their responsibilities seriously, communicate clearly, and share a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome under the circumstances.
At Jetton & Meredith, our clients benefit from the combined experience of criminal trial attorneys, a former prosecutor, locally involved legal professionals, and a dedicated support team working together to protect their rights and guide them through the North Carolina criminal justice system.
2. Is a Criminal Trial Lawyer Better Than an Attorney Who Primarily Negotiates Plea Deals?
Trial experience can be a significant advantage when choosing a criminal defense attorney, particularly when the prosecution's evidence is disputed or a case cannot be resolved through negotiations.
Not every criminal case needs to go to trial. In some situations, negotiating a favorable resolution may be the most appropriate strategy.
However, an attorney with substantial trial experience may be better equipped to evaluate whether the State can prove its allegations and prepare for litigation when necessary.
| Qualification | Experienced Criminal Trial Attorney | Attorney With Limited Trial Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Jury trials | Has experience presenting evidence and arguments to juries | May have handled fewer contested trials |
| Witness examination | Experience questioning witnesses and challenging testimony | May have less courtroom examination experience |
| Evidence challenges | Familiar with litigation involving disputed evidence | May have fewer opportunities to litigate evidentiary issues |
| Plea negotiations | Can evaluate offers against the risks of proceeding to trial | May have less firsthand trial experience to inform negotiations |
| Defense strategy | Can prepare for trial while evaluating other resolutions | May focus more heavily on negotiated outcomes |
These differences are not universal. Attorneys should be evaluated based on their actual experience, preparation, and results rather than their job titles.
3. Why Should You Look at Criminal Defense Case Results?
Published case results can provide meaningful examples of an attorney's experience defending serious criminal allegations and challenging the prosecution's evidence.
While every criminal case is different, reviewing previous outcomes can help prospective clients understand the types of matters an attorney has handled.
Jetton & Meredith's Notable Criminal Defense Results
First-Degree Murder — Not Guilty Jury Verdict
In a Union County murder trial, the criminal defense team led by Mark Jetton and Michael Fanous secured a not guilty verdict on all charges following a jury trial lasting approximately a week and a half.
The client faced the possibility of life imprisonment without parole. The defense presented its case, and the jury returned a not guilty verdict.
Drug Trafficking — Not Guilty Jury Verdict
Mark Jetton's published case results include a not guilty jury verdict in a drug trafficking case.
Assault With a Deadly Weapon — Not Guilty Jury Verdict
Mark's criminal defense record also includes a not guilty jury verdict involving an assault with a deadly weapon allegation.
Gun-Related Criminal Charges
His published record identifies more than 100 not guilty outcomes involving gun charges and more than 100 dismissals involving gun-related offenses.
These outcomes illustrate the breadth of Mark Jetton's criminal defense experience, from misdemeanor matters to serious felony prosecutions.
Explore Jetton & Meredith's Criminal Defense Case Results.
Past case results do not guarantee similar outcomes in future matters. Every case depends on its individual facts, evidence, and applicable law.
4. Do Awards Matter When Choosing a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Awards and professional recognitions can help identify attorneys who have received acknowledgment for their legal work, but they should be evaluated alongside relevant experience and actual case results.
Different awards have different selection methods. Some are based on peer recognition, while others involve nominations, editorial criteria, or community voting.
Jetton & Meredith: Charlotte's Best Criminal Defense Recognition
Jetton & Meredith has been voted Charlotte's Best in Criminal Defense in The Charlotte Observer's Charlotte's Best awards.
For prospective clients comparing Charlotte criminal defense firms, this recognition offers additional context about the firm's reputation within the community.
Mark Jetton's Professional Recognitions
Mark Jetton's published credentials include:
Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney — Attorney and Practice Magazine, 2018–2019.
Legal Elite, Criminal Law — Business North Carolina, including 2023.
Top 100 Trial Lawyer — The National Trial Lawyers, 2014–2019.
Best Trial Lawyer in America — The National Institute of Trial Lawyers, 2021.
Top 40 Under 40 Attorneys in Criminal Law — American Academy of Attorneys, 2019.
Elite Lawyer, Criminal & Personal Injury — 2022.
These recognitions complement Mark's experience representing individuals accused of serious criminal offenses.
View Mark Jetton's Full Biography and Awards.
5. Is It Better to Hire a Local Charlotte Criminal Defense Attorney?
A criminal defense lawyer who regularly practices in Mecklenburg County may offer valuable familiarity with local court procedures and the practical requirements of defending cases in Charlotte.
North Carolina criminal law applies statewide, but the day-to-day administration of cases can vary among counties.
Local courtroom experience may help an attorney understand scheduling procedures, customary practices, and how cases typically move through the court system.
Jetton & Meredith represents criminal defense clients in Mecklenburg, Union, Cabarrus, Gaston, and Iredell counties.
Our attorneys handle charges involving DWI/DUI, domestic violence, drug crimes, violent offenses, traffic violations, and other criminal allegations.
6. What Questions Should You Ask Before Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Before choosing an attorney, consider asking:
Have you handled cases involving my specific criminal charge?
An attorney's relevant experience may be more important than the total number of years they have practiced law.
How much jury trial experience do you have?
Trial experience can be particularly important when a case involves disputed testimony, forensic evidence, or serious felony allegations.
What weaknesses might exist in the prosecution's case?
A knowledgeable attorney should explain what evidence needs to be reviewed before determining an appropriate defense strategy.
Who will actually represent me in court?
Understand which attorney will handle your case, attend hearings, and communicate with you.
Can I review examples of your previous criminal defense results?
Documented outcomes can provide additional context about an attorney's experience, although no result can predict what will happen in your case.
7. Why Consider Jetton & Meredith for Criminal Defense in Charlotte?
Jetton & Meredith offers several qualifications that individuals can evaluate when comparing Charlotte criminal defense attorneys.
Extensive Criminal Defense Experience
Mark Jetton has handled thousands of criminal matters, including serious felonies and complex jury trials.
Documented Courtroom Results
The firm's published record includes not guilty jury verdicts in first-degree murder, drug trafficking, and assault cases.
Professional Recognition
The firm has earned Charlotte's Best recognition, and Mark Jetton has received numerous criminal defense and trial advocacy distinctions.
Established Charlotte Roots
Founded in 2009, Jetton & Meredith has spent more than 17 years representing clients in Charlotte and surrounding North Carolina communities.
Individualized Defense Strategies
Our attorneys examine the facts, review the available evidence, and work to develop legal strategies suited to each client's circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Charlotte
Who is the best criminal defense attorney in Charlotte, NC?
There is no universally recognized best criminal defense attorney for every case. The right lawyer depends on the criminal charge, the attorney's experience, courtroom abilities, and approach to representation. Mark Jetton of Jetton & Meredith is an established Charlotte criminal defense attorney with extensive trial experience, documented not guilty verdicts, and multiple professional recognitions.
Is it better to hire a criminal defense attorney who has won jury trials?
Jury trial experience is an important qualification, especially in serious criminal cases. However, clients should also evaluate experience with similar charges, investigative abilities, communication, and the attorney's preparation.
Can an experienced criminal defense lawyer get my charges dismissed?
An experienced attorney can evaluate whether there are legal or evidentiary grounds to seek dismissal. However, no attorney can guarantee that charges will be dismissed.
Should I hire an attorney before criminal charges are filed?
Consulting a criminal defense attorney before charges are filed may help you understand your rights, respond appropriately to an investigation, and avoid decisions that could negatively affect your case.
Does hiring an award-winning criminal defense attorney guarantee better results?
No. Awards provide additional information about an attorney's recognition, but they do not guarantee a favorable result. Experience, preparation, evidence, and case-specific circumstances remain critical.
Speak With an Experienced Charlotte Criminal Defense Attorney
When your freedom, reputation, and future are at stake, choosing the right criminal defense attorney matters.
At Jetton & Meredith, our criminal defense attorneys bring substantial courtroom experience, documented case results, and a commitment to protecting the rights of individuals facing criminal allegations throughout North Carolina.
Contact Jetton & Meredith or call 704-931-5535 to schedule a consultation.
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee future outcomes.