Union County DWI Defense Lawyers

Criminal Defense Representation in Monroe, Waxhaw, Weddington, Indian Trail  & Across Union County

Jetton & Meredith is a North Carolina criminal defense firm representing people facing criminal charges and investigations throughout Union County, including Monroe, Waxhaw, Weddington, Marvin, Indian Trail, Stallings, Wesley Chapel, Mineral Springs, and surrounding communities.

From our Monroe office, our criminal defense attorneys represent clients facing felony and misdemeanor charges, DWI/DUI, domestic violence allegations, assault charges, drug offenses, gun and weapons charges, theft and property crimes, traffic offenses, probation violations, and other criminal matters.

Jetton & Meredith, PLLC works directly with people facing misdemeanor and felony charges in Union County. We build clear, deliberate defense strategies grounded in local court procedures, a detailed review of evidence, and honest communication.

Jetton & Meredith, Union

107 E. Jefferson Street, Suite 102

Monroe, NC 28112

Contact Jetton & Meredith, PLLC today at (704) 931-5535 to speak with an attorney about your situation

What Should I Do if I Am Charged With A Crime in Union County?

If you have been arrested, charged, or told that you are under investigation in Union County, you have the right to remain silent and the right to speak with an attorney. 

You do not have to explain your side of the story to law enforcement before seeking legal advice. 

What happens early in a criminal case can matter. Statements can be recorded. Surveillance footage can disappear. Witnesses’ memories can change. Phone records, body-cam footage, photographs, text messages, and other evidence may become important later. 

Speaking with a criminal defense attorney early give your attorney the opportunity to understand what happened, evaluate the charges, identify evidence that may need to be preserved, and begin developing a defense strategy. 

Why Choose Jetton & Meredith for Criminal Defense? 

Criminal Defense Experience since 2009

Jetton & Meredith has defended individuals accused of crimes in North Carolina since 2009. 

Our criminal defense team handles cases ranging from traffic offenses and misdemeanors to serious felony charges carrying the possibility of significant prison time. 

Attorneys With Union County Roots and Experience

Our criminal defense team regularly represents clients with matters in Union County. 

Mark Jetton, the Founding and Managing Partner, has practiced in Union County since starting his practice in 2009. In 2026, Mark Jetton and his criminal defense team successfully received a Not Guilty Verdict in Union County for a young father charged with First Degree Murder.

Attorney Michael Fanous was born and raised in the Weddington area of Union County and now represents individuals facing criminal charges in the community where he grew up. 

Before becoming a criminal defense attorney, Michael served as an Assistant District Attorney in Mecklenburg County, where he prosecuted cases including DWIs, domestic violence matters, felonies, and other criminal offenses. That experience gives him perspective from both sides of a criminal case when evaluating evidence and developing a defense strategy.

Direct, Practical Guidance

Being accused of a crime creates a lot of questions:

Am I going to jail? Will I lose my license? Do I have to go to court? Should I talk to the detective? Can this be dismissed? Will this stay on my record? 

Our job is to help you understand what you are actually facing, what options may be available, and what needs to happen next. 

Criminal Charges We Defend in Union County?

Our criminal defense attorneys represent clients facing a wide range of charges and investigations: 

• DWI and DUI Charges – A DWI arrest can create both criminal and driver’s license consequences
• Violent Crimes – Assault, battery, robbery, and weapons violations.
• Drug Offenses – Possession, intent to sell or distribute, trafficking, and prescription drug charges.
• Guns and Weapons Charges – Allegations concerning possession, carrying a concealed weapon, possession by prohibited person, or weapons connected to another alleged offense.
• Property Crimes – Larceny, breaking and entering, burglary, trespassing, and property damage.
• Traffic & Motor Vehicle Violations – Reckless driving, driving while license revoked (DWLR), and hit-and-run incidents.
• Expungements – Clearing eligible past charges or dismissals from your official record.
• Pre-charge Criminal Investigations – If a detective or other law enforcement personnel wants to interview you, someone has accused you of a crime, or you believe an investigation is underway. 

How Does a Criminal Case Work?

The exact process depends on the charge and circumstances, but a North Carolina criminal case may involve several stages. 

1. Investigation, Citation or Arrest – A criminal matter may begin with an investigation, traffic stop, citation, criminal summons, warrant, or arrest. 
2. Initial Court Proceedings – After charges are filed, you may receive a court date or be required to appear for an initial proceeding. Depending on the circumstances, early proceedings may involve issues such as release conditions, counsel, scheduling, and the status of the charges. 
3. Evidence and Investigation – Your attorney can evaluate the State’s evidence and conduct an independent investigation when appropriate. 
4. Pretrial Motions and Negotiations – Depending on the case, your attorney may identify legal issues involving the admissibility of evidence, searches, seizures, statements, identification procedures, or other constitutional questions. 
5. Trial or Other Resolution – Some criminal cases are resolved through dismissal, negotiated resolution, or another disposition. Others proceed to trial. 
   1. Be Careful About Making Statements – You have the right to remain silent. 

The appropriate strategy depends on the evidence, applicable law, potential consequences, and the client’s goal. 

What is the Difference Between District Court and Superior Court in Union County? 

North Carolina District Courts and Superior Courts handle different types and stages of criminal cases. 

Misdemeanor criminal cases are generally handled in District Court initially. Felony cases also generally begin with proceedings in District Court, but felony cases may ultimately be resolved or tried in Superior Court depending on how the case proceeds. 

Because criminal procedure varies based on the charge and procedural posture of the case, your attorney can explain which court will handle your matter and what to expect at each stage. 

What Happens if I Am Arrested in Union County?

An arrest does not mean you have been convicted. 

After an arrest, several things may happen depending on the charges and circumstances. You may be processed, appear before a judicial official, receive conditions of release, receive a future court date, or remain in custody pending further proceedings. 

The specific process can differ significantly based on the offenses. 

If you or a family member has been arrested, an attorney can help you understand the charges, upcoming proceedings, and potential next steps. 

What Should I Do After an Arrest or Being Charged?

• You generally do not need to explain the incident or try to convince investigators that you did nothing wrong before speaking with an attorney. What you say can become evidence. 
  1. Do Not Consent to Searches Simply Because You Feel Pressured
     • If law enforcement asks for permission to search your phone, vehicle, home, or other property, you can ask whether they have a warrant and make clear that you do not consent to a voluntary search. 
     • Do not physically interfere with officers conducting a search. 
     • Whether a particular search was lawful is something your attorney can evaluate afterward. 
  2. Preserve Information
     • As soon as you safely can, write down what you remember and a timeline of the events, small details can become important later. 
  3. Do Not Post About the Case Online – Avoid discussing the allegations on social media. 
     • Posts, photographs, direct messages, comments, and other digital communications may become relevant evidence. 
  4. Follow Your Release Conditions
     • If a court or judicial official imposes conditions of release, follow them carefully. Violating those conditions can create additional problems while your criminal case is pending. 
  5. Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney IMMEDIATELY
     • Early involvement gives your attorney more time to evaluate the case, identify evidence, communicate with you about upcoming court proceedings, and determine what defense strategy may be appropriate. 

Notable Union County Results

Not Guilty in First-Degree Murder Trial

Attorney Mark Jetton represented a young father facing a first-degree murder charge and the possibility of life in prison without parole.

The defense investigation uncovered video surveillance and witness evidence supporting the client's claim of self-defense. After trial, the client was found not guilty.

Read the full case results

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor charge in Union County?

While misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, a conviction still results in a permanent criminal record and may lead to probation, fines, or jail time. A legal advocate can challenge evidence, negotiate reduced charges, or pursue a complete dismissal depending on the circumstances.

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, misdemeanors are categorized from Class 3 (least severe) to Class A1 (most severe) and generally carry maximum sentences of up to 150 days in local jail. Felonies range from Class I to Class A and involve potential state prison sentences, significant fines, and long-term loss of civil rights.

How quickly should I speak with a defense attorney after an arrest?

You should reach out as soon as possible. Early legal involvement allows your attorney to preserve perishable evidence, interview witnesses before memories fade, and represent you during initial court appearances or bond hearings.

Speak with a Union County Defense Attorney

If you or a family member faces criminal charges in Monroe, Indian Trail, Waxhaw, or anywhere across Union County, get direct answers about your legal options. 

Reach out to the defense team at Jetton & Meredith, PLLC today at (704) 931-5535, or stop by our Monroe office at 107 E. Jefferson St., Suite 102, Monroe, NC, to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss your options.