Attorney
Very few experiences feel more stressful than facing criminal charges – not only does the system feel overwhelmingly complex, but the consequences of a conviction can stick with you for the rest of your life. If the state has charged you with a criminal offense, let us help.
Why Do I Need a Criminal Defense Attorney?
If you try to manage the legal process on your own, you put yourself at a significant disadvantage. In both civil and criminal cases, individuals who choose to defend themselves only win their cases about 10 percent of the time. Though you may want to save money and the hassle of hiring an attorney, it is hard to understate the value that experienced representation brings, especially when you face hefty fines or significant jail time.
A criminal defense attorney brings the following advantages to your case that you likely do not possess yourself:
- Knowledge of criminal law and procedures
- Understanding of local court systems and relationships with prosecutors
- Ability to identify constitutional violations and procedural errors
- Skills in evaluating evidence and building strong defense strategies
- Negotiation abilities that can lead to reduced charges or penalties
- Protection of your rights throughout the legal process
The stakes are simply too high to gamble without legal representation.
What Questions Should I Ask During a Consultation?
Your initial consultation with a North Carolina criminal defense attorney gives you an opportunity to gather information and assess whether you want them to represent you. Consider asking some of these questions:
- How long have you been practicing criminal defense?
- How much experience do you have working on cases like mine?
- What is your success rate with cases similar to mine?
- Have you worked with the prosecutor and judge assigned to my case?
- What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
- Will you personally handle my case, or will associates be involved?
What Are Red Flags to Watch For?
Given the high stakes involved in criminal proceedings and the potential consequences associated with a conviction, you must choose your attorney carefully so you can make the best possible impression on the court. While time is of the essence in criminal cases, don’t automatically go with the first attorney you meet with just to speed up the process. Exercise caution if an attorney:
- Guarantees a specific outcome (no ethical attorney can promise results)
- Seems unfamiliar with the specific charges you face
- Fails to clarify their fee structure
- Does not respond promptly to your inquiries
- Doesn’t provide clear answers to your questions and concerns
- Pressures you to make decisions without explaining your options
Making Your Final Decision
After gathering information, going through multiple consultations, and evaluating your options, ask yourself the following questions to make your final decision:
- Which attorney has the most relevant experience for my specific charges?
- Which attorney articulated the clearest strategy for my defense?
- Which attorney made me feel most confident and at ease?
- Which attorney’s fee structure works best for my financial situation?
- Which attorney demonstrated the most responsiveness and attention to detail?
Once you’ve answered these questions, then you can commit to working with your North Carolina criminal defense lawyer.
Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney at Sheffron Law Firm
When you face criminal charges in Hendersonville or Columbus, North Carolina, you need dedicated legal representation to support you at every stage of your case. The team at Sheffron Law Firm understands the stress and uncertainty that come along with criminal charges, and we have guided individuals in Henderson and Polk counties through the court system for over 25 years.
We represent clients accused of a wide range of misdemeanors and felonies, including DWI, drug offenses, and violent crimes. Call us or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we’ll fight to protect your rights, freedom, and future.