Domestic violence cases carry serious penalties in North Carolina. You face arrest, a protective order, and possible jail time. You need legal help right away. A criminal lawyer in Raleigh can defend your rights and guide you through each step.
How North Carolina Handles These Charges
Police respond quickly to domestic calls. Officers often arrest one person on the spot. The court may issue a protective order that blocks contact with the other person. You may face a no-contact bond or forced removal from your home.
The district attorney must prove that you caused harm, made threats, or tried to control someone in your household. This includes spouses, children, and romantic partners. A lawyer can challenge the claims and push for dismissal or a lighter charge.
Possible Defenses
Self-defense often applies in domestic cases. False accusations also happen. Some people try to use the system to gain control in family court or hurt someone’s reputation. A criminal defense lawyer in Raleigh can expose lies, examine police reports, and cross-examine witnesses.
The court may consider mental illness, past trauma, or substance use. Your lawyer can present this background to the judge to reduce penalties or seek treatment instead of jail. Each case requires a strategy that fits your facts.
What You Must Do
If you face a charge, follow every court order. Show up for hearings. Avoid contact with the other party if a judge ordered it. One mistake can lead to a second arrest or a bond revocation. Your lawyer will explain what to expect and what to avoid.
Stay in close contact with your lawyer. Send updates. Ask questions. Keep records. A solid defense for domestic violence charges depends on full communication. Your lawyer will speak for you in court and manage filings, motions, and deadlines.
Your Rights in Court
North Carolina law gives you the right to a fair trial. You can call witnesses. You can testify or stay silent. You have the right to challenge the state’s evidence. Your lawyer will protect these rights at every hearing.
The court must treat you as innocent until proven guilty. The state carries the burden. A criminal lawyer in Raleigh will hold the state to that burden. The goal is clear: protect your record, protect your freedom, and protect your future.
Speak With a Lawyer Today
If you face domestic charges, act now. Speak with a lawyer in Raleigh who handles criminal cases, including domestic violence cases. A consultation gives you a clear plan. You will review the facts. You will explore options. You will see what comes next. Contact the Law Offices of Dewey P. Brinkley at (919) 832-0307 or use our contact form to schedule a consultation.
