Answering The Questions You Have About Your Case
It is common to have a lot of questions if you have been charged with a crime. You are probably wondering what sentence you could receive, how best to defend yourself and what your future looks like.
At Buzzard Law Firm, we can help you answer these questions. Our team of criminal defense attorneys brings decades of combined experience to the practice of defense in North Carolina. Here, we have answered some of the questions that we hear most often from our prospective clients.
What should I do if I am arrested or charged with a crime?
If a law enforcement officer tries to arrest you, remain calm and polite. Give your name and any information included on your driver’s license. However, you should then invoke your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent. Do not speak until you have an attorney present.
The same goes if you have already received a criminal charge. You cannot turn back time if you have already given an interview to the police, but you should immediately hire an attorney and refuse to give any more information.
How are misdemeanors and felonies different?
A misdemeanor is a crime that can result in up to one year of incarceration. A felony is a crime that can result in more than a year of incarceration. Felonies are more severe than misdemeanors and almost always have harsher consequences.
What are some common criminal charges in Harnett County?
Our defense attorneys have handled a broad spectrum of criminal charges, from traffic violations to drug trafficking. Some of the most common include:
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Manufacture of a controlled substance
- Distribution of a controlled substance
- Driving while impaired
- Unlawful possession of prescription medications
- Property crimes such as theft or vandalism
No matter the charges against you, you can count on us for assertive, knowledgeable defense.
How do plea bargains work? Should I accept one?
The district attorney’s office does not have the time or resources to take every case to trial. As a result, they often work with defendants to negotiate a plea bargain that allows you to plead guilty to a less-serious offense in exchange for a lighter sentence.
Some plea bargains are beneficial; others are not. Do not accept any offer from the DA until you have spoken with a lawyer.
Do I really need a criminal defense lawyer?
You have the right to work with a public defender if you choose. Public defenders are skilled, passionate attorneys, but the state often overburdens them with so many cases that they cannot give you their full personal attention. By hiring a private defense lawyer, you have the assurance that someone is putting their full time and effort into your case.
Get More Answers To More Questions
When you schedule an initial consultation with us, you can speak with an attorney in greater detail about your criminal case. To begin, please call our Lillington office at 910-808-4069 or send us an email.