Skilled Criminal Defense & Traffic Law Representation Across North Carolina
In North Carolina, crimes are categorized into felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions. Crime classifications are made by the state legislature based on the seriousness of the crime and its impact on victims and society.
Infractions
People charged with infractions do not have a right to a jury trial, but they should hire an attorney. The government does not appoint an attorney for people charged with infractions. Traffic offenses are the most common form of this type of violation.
Example: Marcus receives a speeding ticket and goes to court (losing time from work, $$$, or family). The judge determines that Marcus was speeding, and Marcus’ punishment is a fine of $$$, court fees of $$$, insurance points of $$$, and point(s) against his driving record.
Hiring us not only saves you time but could save you a lot of money and hardship.
Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are offenses punishable by up to two years in jail. Misdemeanor offenses can also include a payment of a fine, court fees, pretrial jail fees, post-trial jail fees, probation, probation fees, community service, and restitution. Defendants charged with misdemeanors are tried in district court.
Felonies
Felonies are offenses punishable by more than two years in prison. Misdemeanors can be elevated to felonies for repeat offenders. Punishment for felonies can range from imprisonment for more than two years to life in prison without parole, and felonies like murder may even be punished by imposition of the death penalty.
When dealing with a felony, it is in your best interest to have an attorney.
Bond Reductions
All people charged with misdemeanor offenses or higher can have secured bonds set on their cases. A bond reduction motion is needed to reduce the bond or to set an unsecured bond so that person may be released from jail pending trial. This can allow them to continue their job or be at home with their loved ones while their matter goes through the legal justice system.
What's the difference between an infraction, a misdemeanor, and a felony?
Infractions, like most traffic offenses, don't carry a right to a jury trial and typically result in fines and points against your record. Misdemeanors are punishable by up to two years in jail and are tried in district court. Felonies are punishable by more than two years in prison, and repeat misdemeanors can sometimes be elevated to felony charges.
Should I hire an attorney for a traffic infraction?
Yes. The government doesn't appoint an attorney for infractions, so you're on your own unless you hire one. Without representation, you risk fines, court fees, insurance points, and points against your driving record that a lawyer may be able to help you avoid.
What penalties come with a misdemeanor charge in North Carolina?
Misdemeanor penalties can include jail time of up to two years, fines, court fees, pretrial and post-trial jail fees, probation and probation fees, community service, and restitution. Misdemeanor cases are tried in district court.
How serious are felony charges in North Carolina?
Felonies are punishable by more than two years in prison, with sentences ranging up to life without parole, and certain felonies like murder can carry the death penalty. Given the stakes, it's in your best interest to have an attorney if you're facing a felony charge.
What is a bond reduction, and how does it work?
Anyone charged with a misdemeanor or higher offense can have a secured bond set on their case. A bond reduction motion asks the court to lower that bond or convert it to an unsecured bond, which can allow you to be released from jail pending trial so you can keep working or stay with your family while your case moves through the system.
Call us at (472) 242-2459 to help you get the best possible outcome if you have been accused of a crime.
