Cleveland County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Cleveland County Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, no matter the offense. However, with a qualified criminal defense lawyer on your side, you can improve your chances of a successful outcome. If you’re located in Shelby, Kings Mountain, or Boiling Springs, it may be time to hire an aggressive and experienced Cleveland County criminal defense lawyer rather than attempting to handle your case on your own.

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers

At The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., we have over 20 years of experience litigating a range of criminal defense cases. We fight tirelessly for North Carolinians’ constitutional rights, ensuring criminal defense laws are appropriately applied to each case. Our deep roots in North Carolina foster positive relationships with our clients and provide us with a deep understanding of the state’s criminal justice system. You can rest assured that you are in capable hands if you choose our team to defend you.

Penalties for Criminal Charges in North Carolina

Shelby, Cleveland County criminal defense cases may involve an infraction, a misdemeanor, or a felony. Infractions are non-criminal offenses, such as traffic violations, that are typically only punishable by a fine. Misdemeanors are crimes that are less serious than felonies but may still warrant serving jail time, paying fines, or both. Felonies are the most serious offenses, and they tend to be met with harsh penalties.

Specifically, misdemeanors are categorized by Class A1-3. Class A1 offenses are the most serious, with the possibility of serving up to 60 days in jail for first-time offenses and 150 days for those with five or more previous convictions. For Class 3 misdemeanors, you may only have to pay a fine and serve no more than 10 days in jail if it’s a first-time offense.

Felonies are categorized by Class A-I, with Class A applying to the most serious crimes. The penalties for these offenses, which may include burglary, sexual assault, or murder, vary depending on their severity, whether the defendant has prior offenses, and if there are aggravating factors. Generally, jail time for felonies can range from four months to life in prison or even the death penalty.

Cleveland County’s Crime Rate

While Cleveland County sees less crime than the state as a whole, its crime rate has increased by 6% from 2022 to 2023, with an overall violent crime rate of 359 per 100,000 people. Areas near Highway 74 can be a hub for significant crimes, according to the most recent Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office crime map.

Criminal Cases We Litigate

At our firm, we litigate all types of criminal cases, from small infractions and simple misdemeanors to serious felonies. Below are some of the types of cases we handle:

• Traffic violations
• DUIs or DWIs
• Drug crimes
• Violent crimes
• Property crimes
• Sex-related crimes
• White collar crimes

These are just some of the criminal cases we litigate, and we provide personalized attention no matter your case. Whether you are charged with aggravated assault, which constitutes 69.9% of violent crimes in Cleveland County, identity theft, or possession of a Schedule I drug, we have the experience, skills, and resources to help you.

When You Should Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Whether or not you maintain your innocence, you deserve a strong criminal defense. However, it is important to contact a lawyer as soon as you are arrested, as delaying this important step can increase your chances of facing harsh penalties. Acting fast will provide your lawyer with enough time to help you gather evidence, create a strategy, build your case, and negotiate your charges.

While hiring a criminal defense lawyer is wise whenever you’re facing charges, it may be especially important if:

• You believe you have a strong defense, such as self-defense, lack of intent, defense of others, or coercion.
• You have a prior history of criminal charges or convictions.
• You are innocent or have been falsely identified.
• You are unsure of how your charges may impact your life.
• You cannot afford a criminal record.

These are just some of the reasons to hire a criminal defense lawyer who can not only defend you in court but can also provide you with valuable information about your case. North Carolina law carries harsh penalties for anyone convicted of crimes, so hiring a lawyer to help protect your rights and defend your freedom is essential.

FAQs About Cleveland, CA County Criminal Defense Law

What Is the Difference Between a Criminal Lawyer and a Defense Attorney?

A criminal lawyer and a defense attorney are essentially the same, and the terms are often used interchangeably. However, a criminal lawyer may specifically describe anyone who practices criminal law, including both defense attorneys and prosecutors. On the other hand, defense attorneys refer to lawyers who may only practice criminal defense.

What Is the Difference Between Infractions, Misdemeanors, and Felonies in North Carolina?

The difference between infractions, misdemeanors, and felonies lies in the severity of the offenses and penalties. Felonies are the most serious, while infractions are minor, non-criminal offenses. Felonies can result in the most devastating consequences, like years in prison, extreme fines, and even the death penalty in the most severe cases.

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?

You can hire a criminal defense attorney at any stage of the criminal process. Still, it is wise to act fast when considering hiring a lawyer. Delays may mean having to negotiate, defend, or fight for yourself, which may be difficult if you are facing serious charges or if you are unfamiliar with North Carolina’s criminal justice system.

What Is the Optimal Defense in a Criminal Case?

Each case is different, so there is no optimal defense that applies to all criminal cases. However, there are some defenses that are often used by defense attorneys and applied to even the most serious crimes. They include self-defense, lack of intent, defense of others, an alibi, or mistaken identity. Of these, lack of intent is probably used most often.

Contact The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., Today

If you are facing criminal charges in Shelby, Cleveland County, you should promptly hire a criminal defense attorney. Your freedom should not be kept in the balance. Instead, reach out to the aggressive team of lawyers at The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., to help you with your case. Do not hesitate to contact us for a consultation.