Experienced State Crimes Defense Lawyer In Greenville, North Carolina
If you are facing a criminal charge in North Carolina state court, the outcome of your case may affect your freedom, criminal record, job, education and future opportunities. State crimes range from misdemeanor offenses to serious felonies and the potential consequences can vary based on the charges and facts of the case.
At Fitzpatrick Law Firm, our lead attorney, Michael C. Fitzpatrick, represents clients whom prosecutors accuse of state crimes in Greenville. With his support, we will examine the facts of your case and build a defense around the specific charges, evidence and circumstances involved.
What Are State Crimes?
State crimes are offenses charged under North Carolina law and prosecuted in county or state courts. They are different from federal crimes, which involve federal statutes, agencies or prosecutors. Our office regularly handles cases involving:
- Assault charges
- Drug offenses
- Gun charges
- DWI and DUI
- Traffic violations
- Underage drinking
- Theft-related offenses
- Probation violations
- Penalties, court rules and evidence shift with each offense, so we build your defense around the charge you’re actually facing.
State Crimes Vs. Federal Crimes
North Carolina or local authorities prosecute state crimes under state law, while federal agencies investigate or prosecute federal crimes under federal law in federal court.
Firearms, drug quantities, activity across state lines or an active federal investigation can push a case from state into federal court, with different rules and higher stakes attached. Federal crimes can involve different procedures and penalties than state charges, so knowing what to expect may help you make informed decisions about your case.
What Happens After You Are Charged With A State Crime In North Carolina?
A criminal charge sets off a series of steps. In most cases, the process looks something like this:
- Arrest, citation or summons: How the case begins and when you must respond to the charge.
- First court appearance: The initial hearing where the court addresses the charge and other basic issues.
- Bond or release conditions: The rules you must follow while your case remains pending.
- Discovery and evidence review: The process of reviewing police reports, witness statements and other evidence.
- Discussions with the prosecutor: Possible negotiations about the charges, plea options or case resolution.
- Pretrial motions: Requests asking the court to address legal or evidentiary issues before trial.
- Trial preparation and sentencing: Preparing to present the case at trial or addressing penalties if you are convicted.
You do not have to handle each stage alone. We explain each stage as it comes, review the evidence against you and help you make informed decisions as your case moves through the North Carolina court system.
Building A Defense Strategy For North Carolina State Charges
We look at how officers carried out the stop or search, question witness statements, challenge forensic evidence and raise constitutional issues where they apply. No single defense fits every case, so we listen to your account first, then shape a strategy around your specific charges, including cases that call for heavy investigation or hard-nosed negotiation with prosecutors.
Talk To A Greenville State Crimes Defense Lawyer
A state charge does not have to write the next chapter of your story on its own. Call Fitzpatrick Law Firm at 252-999-8746 or fill out our online contact form to schedule an initial consultation with our Greenville criminal defense attorney. We make time for our clients, including outside regular business hours, so reach out and let’s talk about what your case needs.
