Southport Criminal Defense Lawyer

Southport Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing criminal charges of any kind can be a life-changing experience. Whether you made a mistake and broke the law or have been wrongfully accused of a crime you did not commit, it is crucial to understand and exercise your rights in this situation, especially your right to legal representation. A Southport criminal defense lawyer is the most valuable asset you can have on your side after an arrest for any crime.

Experienced Criminal Defense Counsel in Southport, NC

Christina Rivenbark & Associates offers responsive and results-driven criminal defense counsel for a wide range of charges in Southport. If you or a loved one has been arrested for any criminal offense, it is imperative that you seek out an experienced Southport criminal defense lawyer as quickly as possible. We can ensure your rights are protected and help you formulate an effective defense against the charges that have been filed against you.

You have two very important constitutional rights that come into effect upon arrest for any crime. First is the right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment; you are not required to act as a witness against yourself or answer any questions from the police, no matter what they say to the contrary. Remain silent until you can exercise your Sixth Amendment right to legal representation and consult with a defense attorney immediately after arrest and booking.

Our firm provides criminal defense representation for a wide range of criminal cases, including:

• Driving while intoxicated (DWI).
• Drug offenses, including possession, possession with intent to sell, and trafficking.
• Student and youth charges, such as underage drinking or disorderly conduct.
• Sex crimes such as rape or sexual assault.
• Violent crimes, including assault, assault and battery, or attempted homicide.
• Theft, shoplifting, and other property crimes.
• Domestic violence.

When you have been charged with any type of criminal offense, an experienced Southport criminal defense lawyer can review the details of your situation and help you determine the most effective defenses available to you. They can also verify that the police followed the laws of due process and that you were not mistreated. The right attorney can help you formulate an effective defense or prove that your rights were violated if applicable to your case.

What to Expect in a Criminal Case in Southport

The criminal justice system aims to punish breaking the law, and the state’s criminal code includes very strict rules for sentencing. However, every case is unique, and while the prosecution attempts to prove a defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, it is the defense attorney’s mission to prevent them from meeting this burden of proof.

Your attorney can help you prove your innocence if you have been falsely accused of a crime you did not commit, or they can help you prove your alibi if you are the victim of mistaken identity. If you did break the law, all hope is not lost, and with the right attorney representing you, you may secure a lighter sentence than you may have initially expected. Our firm will do everything we can to help you achieve the most positive possible outcome.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Standard of Proof in a Criminal Case in Southport?

A: The standard of proof in a criminal case in Southport or anywhere else in the state is “beyond a reasonable doubt.” The prosecution has the burden of proof in every criminal case, and they are responsible for using evidence and witness testimony to prove that there can be no doubt as to whether the defendant committed the crime. The defense attorney attempts to prevent the prosecution from meeting this standard of proof.

Q: How Much Does a Southport Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost to Hire?

A: The cost to hire a Southport criminal defense lawyer varies from attorney to attorney. Every attorney has a different billing policy, but the majority of criminal defense lawyers charge their clients an hourly rate. This means that the more time the attorney spends working on a case, the more it costs the client. Always verify a potential attorney’s billing policy before you agree to their representation so you know what to expect in terms of your legal fees.

Q: What Is a Plea Bargain?

A: A plea bargain is an agreement between the prosecution and defense in a criminal case. If the prosecution is certain they can secure a conviction, they may offer a plea bargain to the defendant to conserve court resources. In such an agreement, the prosecution may offer lighter penalties and/or reduced or dropped charges in exchange for an immediate guilty plea. Your Southport criminal defense lawyer can advise you as to whether this would suit your interests.

Q: Can My Southport Criminal Defense Lawyer Keep Me Out of Jail?

A: It is natural to hope that your Southport criminal defense lawyer can keep you out of jail, but the reality is that no defense attorney can ever promise their client a specific outcome to their case. However, having an experienced criminal defense attorney representing you significantly improves your chances of securing a favorable outcome for your case. They can potentially help you avoid conviction if possible or at least mitigate your penalties if necessary.

Q: When Should I Hire a Southport Criminal Defense Lawyer?

A: You should hire a Southport criminal defense lawyer as quickly as possible after arrest and booking. Once you have been arrested you should remain silent and comply with the arresting officers’ instructions until you can speak with a defense lawyer. In most cases, your attorney can meet with you at the police station or precinct soon after your arrest and booking. It is imperative to secure defense representation as quickly as possible after your arrest.

Christina Rivenbark & Associates has the skills and experience necessary to provide effective criminal defense counsel in a wide range of cases in Southport, and we are ready to provide the support and guidance you need for your impending case. You have a very short time in which to start building your defense, so contact us today to schedule your free consultation with an experienced and reliable Southport criminal defense lawyer.