How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in North Carolina?

If you are considering hiring a North Carolina criminal lawyer, it is normal to wonder about the extent of your legal fees. However, it is important to note that the amount that your criminal law attorney can charge you will vary drastically based on the circumstances of your case. In order to understand what you will have to pay; it is in your interest to schedule a consultation with an attorney so they can give you an estimate of the cost of your case.

What Impacts the Cost of a Criminal Lawyer in North Carolina?

The reason why consulting with a criminal lawyer can be beneficial in understanding your financial requirements is that there are many factors that shape the cost of legal support. Different lawyers charge their clients through different models as well. For example, all of the following factors can play a role in how much money you will owe at the end of your case:

• Your Legal Complications: The more challenges and complexities you encounter in a criminal case, the more critical it is that you have an experienced criminal lawyer standing by your side and protecting your rights. However, the more work that a lawyer has to put in to face the challenges, the higher the price tag might be.
  For instance, if your case requires extensive negotiations, securing significant evidence, or addressing multiple charges, you will likely see higher fees than someone with a simpler case would.
• If You Go to Trial: Not all cases go to trial. In fact, cases can often be resolved through pretrial negotiations, depending on the circumstances at hand. However, in the event that your case goes to trial, you will likely see a higher price tag, as your attorney will need to do more research, craft a strong argument, and have a larger workload as a result of the proceedings.
• Your Lawyer’s Experience: It’s beneficial to hire a criminal lawyer who has years of experience handling your type of case. However, you should expect that if your lawyer has a proven track record of success with such cases, they might charge more than other attorneys who have less experience. Similarly, if your lawyer has a good reputation in the field and is well known, they might charge higher rates.
• The Location: The local market will play a role in the cost of your attorney. Typically, rural areas see lower fees than urban areas. Places like California often have higher attorney fees than North Carolina.
• The Pay Structure: Not all criminal lawyers charge their clients in the same way. For example, some attorneys charge what is known as a retainer fee. A retainer is a payment that you make at the start of the case, similar to a down payment.
  After you pay the retainer fee, your attorney will bill you on an hourly basis based on the amount of time they had to put into doing research for your case, preparing legal documents, appearing in court, and all other actions.

Why Do You Need a Criminal Lawyer in North Carolina?

If you are facing a criminal charge, whether it be a felony or a misdemeanor, you are facing penalties that can change the course of your life. From costly fines and time in jail, life as you know it might be forever different for you and your loved ones.

When you hire a qualified criminal law attorney to fight for your rights, you are taking an important step to protect your future. Even if you plead guilty, your criminal lawyer can draw on evidence, character statements, and more to negotiate a light sentence.

FAQs About Criminal Lawyer, NC

How Much, on Average, Does It Cost to Hire an Attorney in North Carolina?

The amount of money you will have to pay to hire an attorney in North Carolina will vary drastically depending on your case. In general, lawyers might charge anywhere between $100 and $500 an hour, but some lawyers will also want a retainer fee upfront, while others will not. It is important that you consult with your attorney about how they will meet your needs before hiring them to better understand the price in your case.

What Is the Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor in NC?

If you are charged with a misdemeanor in North Carolina, you are being charged with a less serious crime than a felony. If you are found guilty of a misdemeanor, you will be facing up to about 150 days in jail, as well as fines. Conversely, if you are convicted of a felony in North Carolina, depending on your crime, you could face up to life in prison and the death penalty.

How Long Does a Warrant Last in NC?

If there is a warrant out for your arrest in North Carolina, the warrant will not expire. This means that law enforcement officers can exercise the warrant at any time and arrest you in any circumstances, such as during a traffic stop. It is thus in your interest to contact a criminal defense attorney to understand how to turn yourself in safely.

How Do I Get Charges Dropped Before the Court Date in NC?

Only the prosecutor who is involved can dismiss your court date voluntarily in North Carolina. This often happens if there is evidence to support your innocence or a lack of evidence to suggest you are guilty. If you hire an experienced criminal defense attorney, they might be able to identify legal issues and potential defense strategies that lead to your prosecutor dismissing your charges.

Christina Rivenbark & Associates: Dependable North Carolina Criminal Lawyers

If you are seeking legal support in North Carolina and would like to know more about pricing, consult with Christina Rivenbark & Associates about your case. We have over thirty years of experience standing up for the rights of North Carolina residents, and we can carefully review all of the facts of your case to determine the ideal legal strategy. Contact us today to learn more and set up a consultation.