North Carolina Criminal Defense Attorneys Focused On Serving The Whole Client
Most people think of themselves as fundamentally good, and they never expect to be caught up in the criminal justice system. But the truth is that criminal charges often have little to do with a person’s character, and they are more common than you might expect. The responsibility of a skilled criminal defense attorney is to help good people who are facing a bad situation.
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Greensboro or throughout Guilford County, you can find the legal help you need by contacting Aberle & Connolly, PLLC. In addition to more than 30 years of combined legal experience, our three attorneys offer supportive, understanding and personalized representation to each client who comes though our doors. Their goal is to protect your rights and help you resolve your criminal charges as efficiently and favorably as possible.
Defense Against Theft And Property Crimes Charges
There are a wide range of theft offenses under North Carolina law, ranging from simple crimes like shoplifting to much more serious offenses like embezzlement and larceny. There are even criminal statues related to illegally selling property that you don’t own.
Regardless of the specifics, a theft-related charge can result in fines and jail time, and it could bar you from working in certain industries. Our attorneys will work tirelessly to help you resolve these charges as favorably as possible.
Crimes Of Violence And Weapons Offenses
Don’t wait to seek legal help if you’ve been charged with any of the following:
- Assault, including simple assault, assault with a deadly weapon and more
- Domestic violence, which is charged under state assault statutes but often carries distinct penalties
- Murder or manslaughter
- Gun crimes, including unlawful discharge, illegal possession of a firearm and straw purchases
- Sex crimes, many of which can result in lengthy prison sentences and mandatory registration as a sex offender
Our attorneys want to help you tell your side of the story and ensure that prosecutors and juries consider all relevant facts and context.
Traffic Offenses And Drunk Driving
Many people wouldn’t think to hire a lawyer to help them resolve traffic tickets, but there are sensible reasons for doing so. Whether you were cited for speeding or reckless driving, paying the fine is the same as pleading guilty. This means demerit points on your license (leading to eventual suspension) and higher insurance rates.
The consequences are more serious for offenses like driving while intoxicated (DWI), which is why you need an attorney on your side as soon as possible.
Defense Against State Or Federal Criminal Charges
Most people charged with a crime in North Carolina will be prosecuted in state court. However, some offenses, either due to their severity or where they occurred, will be prosecuted by the federal government. There are major differences between state and federal charges, and not all criminal attorneys are equipped to defend clients in federal court. Our attorneys are experienced and regularly represent clients facing federal criminal charges related to drugs, sex offenses, white collar crimes and more.
Answers To Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Court Processes
We understand that the court system can be confusing and overwhelming at times. We strive to make things as easy as possible for our clients. As part of that effort, we’ve provided answers to some of the most common questions our attorneys receive from clients and prospective clients. If you have additional questions or want to better understand your legal rights, we invite you to schedule a free initial consultation at our Greensboro office.
How do I keep up with my court date?
We will keep you updated about court dates for cases that we have been retained for. However, the North Carolina Judicial Branch also keeps a searchable database of calendared court dates. Be aware that this website doesn’t list court dates that have not yet been calendared or have outstanding orders for arrest. You can also contact the Guilford County Clerk of Superior Court through their website: www.nccourts.org.
What should I expect on the day of my court appearance?
If we have been retained on your case, we will give you specifics about what court dates you are actually required to show up for and what to expect at your first appearance and subsequent appearances. We know that court dates can take up a big part of your day, and we try to make sure that you only have to come to court when absolutely necessary. We also make sure that when you get to court, one of us will meet you early and help you get back to your life as quickly as possible.
If your court date is in District Court, the calendar call starts at 8:30 a.m., and a session of court will last only a day. An Assistant District Attorney will call all of the names alphabetically, and you will have the chance to answer up “attorney” if we are handling your case. If you need more time to hire an attorney, you can answer up, “continuance.”
Court will generally go until 12:30 p.m. and then break for lunch until 2 p.m. If your court date is in Superior Court, you are required to be present for the Monday calendar call, which starts at 10 a.m. Superior Court sessions typically last all week and go until approximately 5 p.m. everyday with a lunch break from 12:30 to 2:00. Even though Superior Court sessions last a week, we try to make sure that your case is handled as quickly as possible on Monday morning, if we can.
Where do I park when I arrive for court?
There is some limited free street parking on Blandwood Avenue, but most people park in either the metered lot on South Eugene Street and East Washington Street next to the courthouse or the Greene Street Parking Deck located at 211 South Greene Street.
Where do I go to complete my community service?
If you were told to complete community service as a part of a First Offender Program, you will need to contact the program for placement. If you were ordered to complete the service through the Guilford County Community Service Office, you will need to sign up with them first. In Greensboro, the Community Service Office is located on the third floor of the Courthouse.
For everyone else who was asked to complete community service, the service must be done at a non-profit organization. Proof of completion of the community service should be on a letterhead of the organization and signed by a supervisor at the site. Examples of nonprofits include Habitat for Humanity or Goodwill, as well as many churches, synagogues and mosques. There are hundreds of nonprofits in the community. If you are unsure of whether something counts, give us a call, and we can help.
How do I get an order for arrest recalled?
Do you have an OFA for missing court? Is there a warrant for your arrest for failing to appear on a court date? Call our Greensboro lawyers for help getting an OFA recall so you don’t have to look over your shoulder anymore. Our attorneys can help try to get your case back on the docket without you having to get served with an order for arrest and booked into jail. If you received a bond forfeiture notice or think you have a warrant for your arrest, our criminal defense lawyers can see if you qualify to get that order for arrest recalled. We also include OFA recalls in the price of handling your case if you are looking to hire a lawyer to help resolve your charges.
Contact Us To Discuss Your Criminal Charges In A Free Consultation
Based in Greensboro, North Carolina, Aberle & Connolly, PLLC, serves clients throughout Guilford County. To take advantage of a free initial consultation with one of our knowledgeable and caring criminal defense attorneys, call us today at 336-900-5452 or send us a message online.