Charlotte Criminal Defense Attorneys

Dedicated Legal Support for Clients in Mecklenburg County

If you have been charged with a crime in North Carolina, you should retain an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in thousands of dollars in fines, years in jail or prison, and lost future opportunities.

A skilled criminal attorney can defend your rights and guide you throughout every stage of the criminal process in Charlotte. Understanding the nuances of the Mecklenburg County court system, our team ensures your rights are honored and that you have a clear plan from start to finish.

At Jetton & Meredith, our criminal defense attorneys in Charlotte are known for effective strategies in this complex area of law. Backed by decades of combined legal experience, our defense lawyers have helped thousands of clients achieve their legal goals. We can help you, too.*

Whether you have been charged with a violent crime, DUI/DWI, a sex offense, or any other offense, we handle criminal cases efficiently and with dedicated attention to detail. As a criminal defense attorney Charlotte residents trust, we are familiar with local judges, prosecutors, and protocols, which allows us to represent your best interests.

Our Commitment to Personalized Legal Care

You can trust our criminal defense attorneys and criminal lawyers to effectively guide you through every step of the legal process. We are readily accessible to our clients, offering the flexibility to meet on weekends or evenings as needed. As your representatives, our legal team will aggressively fight to protect your rights and best interests. No matter the severity of the charges against you, we have the experience required to advocate on your behalf.

Our commitment extends beyond just courtroom representation; we take the time to ensure that each client fully understands their options and the possible outcomes for their case. Being based in Charlotte allows us to maintain close, professional relationships with the Mecklenburg County court system, enabling us to navigate local procedures and expectations efficiently. Drawing on our deep local knowledge as Charlotte criminal defense lawyers, we empower you to make informed decisions, whether you are facing charges for the first time or are concerned about protecting your reputation and future within our community. At Jetton & Meredith, PLLC, we work diligently to provide tailored defense strategies, always aligning our efforts with the unique circumstances and needs of every client we represent.

What to Expect in the Charlotte, NC Criminal Justice Process

Facing criminal charges in Charlotte means entering a justice process with many stages, each requiring careful attention and competent legal guidance. From the initial arrest—typically involving law enforcement agencies like the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department—to the first appearance at the Mecklenburg County Magistrate’s Office or the Mecklenburg County Courthouse, every step can significantly affect your case. After arrest, you may be booked into the Mecklenburg County Detention Center for booking and bail determination. It is crucial to have a knowledgeable Charlotte criminal defense attorney involved as early as possible to advocate for your rights, represent you at hearings, and negotiate with prosecutors regarding bail or potential release conditions.

Once formal charges are filed, your case moves through various court hearings—such as preliminary hearings, discovery, motions, and potentially trial. At every stage, we apply decades of experience handling criminal cases in Charlotte's legal environment, offering local insight and established relationships to benefit your defense. Our legal team works directly with Mecklenburg County clerks, prosecutors, and local judges to anticipate procedures, file defenses, and ensure that you remain updated and informed. As your criminal defense attorney Charlotte clients trust, we demystify every step, explain key timelines, and prepare you for what’s ahead—so you feel empowered and ready at each turn.

Types of Criminal Charges We Handle in Charlotte

1. Alcohol crimes
2. Assault
3. Domestic violence
4. Drug crimes
5. DUI/DWI
6. Expungements
7. Failure to appear
8. Fugitive Extradition
9. Homicide
10. Juvenile Crimes
11. Licensing Disciplinary Hearings
12. Murder
13. No Contact Order
14. Probation Violations
15. Restraining orders
16. School Hearings/Title IX
17. Sex offenses
18. Theft crimes
19. Traffic violations
20. Trespassing
21. TSA violations
22. Vehicular homicide
23. Violent crimes
24. White Collar Crimes

Common Penalties & Consequences in Charlotte Criminal Cases

Understanding the penalties and consequences associated with criminal charges in Charlotte is vital for making informed decisions about your defense. Depending on the type and severity of the offense, you may face jail or prison time, steep fines, probation, community service, license suspension, or mandatory counseling. For example, North Carolina criminal statutes set strict mandatory minimums for some offenses, such as DWI and drug possession, and courts in Mecklenburg County routinely enforce these local regulations. Judges may also impose additional conditions, like electronic monitoring or participation in diversion programs—especially for first-time or nonviolent offenders. We are committed to fully communicating every possible consequence at the outset so you are never surprised during any step of the process.

At Jetton & Meredith, PLLC, our team understands that penalties have a wide-reaching impact beyond just courtroom sentences. A conviction can jeopardize your eligibility for employment, housing, and educational opportunities in Charlotte and throughout Mecklenburg County. As criminal defense lawyers, we focus on pursuing strategies to reduce or avoid convictions, such as alternative sentencing, expungement, or reductions in charges. By leveraging years of local courtroom experience, we anticipate prosecutor tactics and position you for the best possible outcome. Working in close consultation with you, we dedicate our efforts to protecting your future, reputation, and opportunities now and for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Have to Attend Court for Every Appearance in Criminal Cases in Charlotte?

The requirement to attend all court appearances in Mecklenburg County depends on the nature of your charges and the policies of the Charlotte criminal courts. For certain misdemeanors or minor charges, your criminal defense attorney can often appear on your behalf, saving you time and helping you avoid unnecessary disruption. However, for felony charges, arraignments, plea hearings, and trials, personal attendance is usually required. The courts in Charlotte are strict about compliance and punctuality, and failure to appear may result in bench warrants or additional penalties. At Jetton & Meredith, PLLC, our Charlotte criminal defense lawyers guide clients through this process and work proactively to arrange your court appearances with your convenience and legal obligations in mind.

What Are My Rights After Being Arrested by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department?

If you are arrested by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, you have several essential rights under both North Carolina and federal law. These include the right to remain silent, the right to legal counsel, and protection against self-incrimination—meaning you do not have to answer questions beyond basic identification. Law enforcement must inform you of your Miranda rights prior to any interrogation. You are also entitled to a prompt bond hearing and to have your criminal defense attorney represent you at all stages of the proceedings. The earlier you contact a lawyer after your arrest, the more effective your defense may be. Our criminal attorneys act quickly to assert your rights, advocate for fair treatment, and work to prevent procedural missteps that might weaken your case.

How Does Expungement Work for Criminal Records in Charlotte, NC?

Expungement in North Carolina refers to the process of erasing or sealing certain criminal records, offering eligible individuals the possibility of a fresh start. Eligibility for expungement depends on the type of criminal offense, case outcome, and your prior criminal history. First-time nonviolent misdemeanor or eligible felony convictions may be expunged after a waiting period, and most charges dismissed or found not guilty can be petitioned for expungement as well. The Mecklenburg County courts require detailed documentation for each petition, and any error can lead to delays or denial. The criminal defense lawyers at Jetton & Meredith, PLLC help Charlotte clients navigate this process—compiling documentation, submitting accurate petitions, and representing you during hearings. Successfully clearing your record can favorably impact your career, housing opportunities, and standing within the Charlotte community.