Federal Criminal Defense
FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS IN NORTH CAROLINA
If you have been arrested or charged with a serious crime, it’s imperative to know your rights and legal options. If the crime is a federal offense, it’s also important to seek legal representation that understands how the federal criminal justice system works. A serious crime does not automatically mean that it is a federal offense, regardless of how serious the crime is.
Murder, for instance, is almost always a state crime unless there is a federal connection, such as in the case of a federal official killed on the job. In general, the federal government will only get involved when there is a crime involving interstate commerce, a federal agent, federal property, or a federal entity.
The mere fact that a case is a felony does not make it a federal offense.
If you face federal criminal charges, it is in your best interest to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
Federal Charges
Federal charges are prosecuted in federal courts by federal judges and United States Attorneys. Various state laws govern the criminal process, and these laws may or may not be similar to federal laws.
States may punish certain crimes more harshly than the federal government, but other states may do the opposite.
Federal charges generally carry the possibility of lengthier prison sentences and are more difficult and time-consuming to deal with than state charges.
The United States Code criminalizes offenses such as drug trafficking, possession of a firearm by a felon, and robbery. Any federal crime may be tried in federal court if prosecutors are interested. In general, more serious crimes will be tried at the federal level, and with this venue comes harsher penalties, including prison time. Additionally, all crimes committed on federal lands, such as military bases and national parks, are prosecuted in federal court. For example, if you were charged with a DWI on Fort Bragg, your case would be heard in federal court. Whether you are charged with a traffic offense, a misdemeanor, or a felony, the collateral consequences of having a federal conviction on your record may be severe. As a result of the severity of the situation, you need experienced and strong representation on your side.
At King Law Firm we offer our community seasoned legal representation in a variety of areas. You can rely on us to deliver a vigorous defense backed by years of experience if your case requires representation in federal court.
FREE CONSULTATION
FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE PRACTICE AREAS
FEDERAL TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS
WHITE COLLAR CRIMES
FELONY DRUG CHARGES
ROBBERY
CHARGES
FIREARMS CHARGES
OTHER CRIMINAL CHARGES
North Carolina Felony Traffic Offense
Why is it Important to Hire a Lawyer for a Felony Traffic Offense?
Felony traffic violations are very serious. If convicted, these charges could have life-long consequences. Depending on the facts of your case, a lawyer can review potential defenses and assist you with the legal process.
What Happens When You Are Charged with a Felony Traffic Offense?
If someone is charged with a felony traffic offense, they will be read their Miranda rights. Unless an individual has been read their rights, any statements he or she makes while being interrogated by law enforcement or a government agent cannot be used against him or her.
According to Miranda rights, the following information should be given:
You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. You have the right to have an attorney present during questioning. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you.
Depending on the jurisdiction, the exact wording of the rights may vary.
A defendant must appear in court for an arraignment hearing after being arrested. They will be informed of their rights, read the charges against them, and be asked to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. In the event that an individual fails to appear for an arraignment, the judge may issue a warrant for their arrest and/or suspend their license.
Defendants who plead not guilty are entitled to a trial by a judge or jury and to be represented by an attorney. A conviction can result in prison time and other penalties, including:
Ordered to pay fines, ordered to pay court costs, and/or have points added to their driving record.
What are the Consequences of Being Convicted of a Traffic Felony?
Felonies are crimes that, if convicted, can result in a prison sentence of at least one year. Typically, traffic felonies include both a fine and a prison sentence. Depending on the circumstances and the jurisdiction, fines can range from $500 up to thousands of dollars.
Traffic felony convictions can negatively impact a driver in many ways, including:
- Having your driver’s license suspended or taken away permanently;
- Points added to a driver’s license history;
- Increasing insurance premiums;
- Loss of citizenship rights, such as the right to vote and/or to teach in a professional setting;
- Towing and/or impounding of the vehicle used in the commission of the crime;
- Not being allowed to own firearms;
- A permanent criminal record;
- In the event of a DUI conviction, a Breathalyzer may be required to be installed within a vehicle;
- When convicted of a felony with a “three strikes” rule, life in prison is the punishment.
The King Law Firm has been helping North Carolinians for over 30 years. Our experienced attorneys and staff understand the complexity of federal criminal traffic violations. Call the King Law Firm today for a free consultation
Are You Facing a White Collar Crime?
North Carolina
White-Collar Attorneys
A federal or white-collar crime investigation is often conducted aggressively by law enforcement. It is common for law enforcement agents to break down the door to your home without warning, early in the morning, in order to execute a search warrant. The purpose of this tactic is to confuse and frighten you and your family.
There is almost no limit to the number of resources available to federal law enforcement for criminal investigations. The investigative process may be already well underway by the time you discover that you or your business have been investigated.
White Collar Practice Areas We Represent
The majority of white-collar crimes involve businesses, commercial enterprises, and financial institutions. The term white-collar crime refers to crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, government procurement fraud, healthcare fraud, and public corruption. These crimes usually involve white-collar professionals who are often the target of investigations. Below are some of the white-collar federal crimes we provide defense for.
Money Laundering
Insider Trading
Bribery
Public Corruption
Computer Crime
Fraud
Securities Fraud
Identity Theft
Tax Evasion
Racketeering
Credit Card Fraud
Embezzlement
Health Care Fraud
Identity Theft
Insurance Fraud
Mail Fraud
Telemarketing Fraud
Welfare Fraud
Public Assistance Fraud
The King Law Firm has been helping North Carolinians for over 30 years. Our experienced attorneys and staff understand the complexity of federal crimes. Call the King Law Firm today for a free consultation
Talk To An Experienced Federal Criminal Lawyer Today
(800) 635-1683
(MOBILE USERS CLICK TO CALL)
Felony Drug Lawyer
North Carolina Felony Drug Lawyer
HAVE YOU BEEN CHARGED WITH A DRUG CRIME?
Having “illegal drugs” in your possession may result in a misdemeanor or felony charge, which is a more serious crime. Depending on the type of drugs involved, the prosecutor will make a decision. Possession of certain types of drugs can sometimes automatically lead to felony charges. As well, the circumstances of the crime will be taken into consideration-when “aggravating circumstances” are present (such as possession of illegal drugs on school grounds), a felony charge is likely. In North Carolina, schedule I include the most dangerous drugs, which are highly addictive and have no recognized medical value. The charge of felonious drug possession often results when the defendant has illegally possessed a certain substance or quantity of drugs. In most states, possessing heroin (a Schedule I substance) is a felony. In many cases, the amount of drugs in the defendant’s possession will also result in felony charges rather than misdemeanor charges.
DON’T WASTE VALUABLE TIME – CONTACT AN EXPERIENCED FEDERAL DRUG LAWYER TODAY.
At the King Law Firm, We are committed to providing help to those facing charges of a drug offense throughout North Carolina. King Law offers skilled representation regardless of whether formal charges have yet been filed or if your case is still under investigation. The King Law Firm is prepared to take on virtually any type of controlled substance case.
TYPES OF FEDERAL DRUG CHARGES
- Drug possession
- Drug distribution
- Drug trafficking
- Drug cultivation
- Possession of marijuana
- Drug manufacturing
- Possession with intent to sell
TYPES OF FEDERAL DRUG CHARGES
- Drug possession
- Drug distribution
- Drug trafficking
- Drug cultivation
- Possession of marijuana
- Drug manufacturing
- Possession with intent to sell
PENALTIES FOR A FELONY DRUG CONVICTION
A person charged with felony drug possession in North Carolina faces a variety of penalties that can have serious consequences. If convicted of a specific drug crime, the potential punishment can range from probation to a mandatory jail sentence of more than 20 years. Most drug crimes are charged as felonies in North Carolina, meaning a defendant may face incarceration in state prison.
The skilled negotiators and trial attorneys at the King Law firm are here to help you in the face of your North Carolina drug crime charges. It is true that your future is at stake at this point in time, but with an aggressive approach by a knowledgeable lawyer, you will have the opportunity of avoiding a conviction and the serious consequences this may have on various areas of your life.
Talk To An Experienced Federal Criminal Lawyer Today
(800) 635-1683
(MOBILE USERS CLICK TO CALL)
FEDERAL ROBBERY ATTORNEY
North Carolina Felony Robbery Lawyer
ARE YOU FACING FELONY ROBBERY CHARGES?
Many people use the terms robbery and theft interchangeably, a robbery charge is different from a theft charge within the legal system. Despite the fact that all robberies include theft, which is defined as the unlawful taking of property with the intent to deprive the owner, not all thefts are robberies. The difference in a robbery charge is that it adds violence or force to the theft.
HAVING A ROBBERY CHARGE ON YOUR RECORD CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS PENALTIES
Because of your mistake, your permanent record will be tainted and you may need to give the government a lot of your time and money. If possible, King Law Firm wants to help reduce or dismiss your charges. Our attorneys can build a criminal defense case to support you, giving you the best possible outcome for your case.
WHEN IS THEFT CONSIDERED ROBBERY?
In North Carolina, robbery is defined by sections 14-87 of the North Carolina General Statutes. The state of North Carolina has three primary types of robbery charges
Common-Law Robbery
This type does not involve the use of a weapon but includes a victim. The act of assaulting a victim while taking their personal property is considered a common-law robbery.
Aiding and Abetting
A person who assists or facilitates armed robbery is considered to be aiding and abetting.
Armed Robbery
The most serious being a robbery committed using dangerous weapons is known as an armed robbery
HOW CAN KING LAW FIRM HELP?
In North Carolina, the prosecutor bears the burden of proof as well as the burden of introducing evidence that the defendant has committed the crime of Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon. The Defense Attorneys at King Law Firm may challenge the prosecution and file a Motion of Discovery under the North Carolina Criminal Law code. It is the responsibility of the prosecutor or state attorney to present sufficient evidence of the crime.
HAVING AN EXPERIENCED CRIMINAL ATTORNEY MAKES A DIFFERENCE!
The defense Attorneys at King Law Firm have been serving North Carolinians for over 30 years. Our experience with the Criminal Justice System will be put to use on your behalf.
Talk To An Experienced Federal Criminal Lawyer Today
(800) 635-1683
(MOBILE USERS CLICK TO CALL)
FEDERAL FIREARMS ATTORNEY
North Carolina Federal Firearms Attorney
ARE YOU FACING FELONY FIREARM CHARGES?
Anyone suspected of unlawfully selling, purchasing, possessing, using, or possessing a firearm can face a variety of federal charges. In order to lessen the number of violent criminals on the streets, the federal government has been pushing for a tough stance against gun crimes. Due to this, federal prosecutors may be overzealous when deciding whether to pursue gun charges against an individual. With years of experience, resources, and knowledge in federal gun law defense, King Law Firm offers those in need of criminal justice advocacy that can rely on King Law Firm when hiring a Federal Firearms Attorney for legal representation.
FIREARMS SALES WITHOUT A LICENSE
In order to sell firearms, you must have a license from the government. A firearm sold without a license may be criminally charged if it crosses state lines. The gun seller could face up to five years in federal prison if convicted under 18 USC 922(a).
THE SALE OF ILLEGAL FIREARMS
The sale of certain firearms (such as assault weapons) is illegal in the United States even if the seller has a license. A firearm cannot be sold to a minor or a convicted felon. It is possible for those convicted of such offenses to face prison terms of between five and ten years. You should have competent legal counsel if you are being charged with these serious crimes.
FALSE STATEMENTS WHEN PURCHASING A FIREARM
According to 18 USC 922(a)(6) a person who engages in making false or misleading statements when purchasing a firearm can be changed and if convicted, serve up to ten years in prison.
POSSESSING A FIREARM ILLEGALLY
A defendant can still be considered illegal in possession of a firearm despite not being charged with a crime during the sale transaction involving a firearm. An example would be a firearm such as a machine gun. In accordance with 18 USC 922(o) having possession of such a weapon can carry a penalty of up to ten years in prison. Certain areas such as a school zone and establishments that serve alcohol are illegal to carry firearms and can carry a sentence of up to five years in prison. Gun laws should be taken very seriously and if charged you should seek the counsel of an experienced federal crimes lawyer.
POSSESSING A FIREARM BY A CONVICTED FELON
Anyone who has been convicted of a felony cannot own or possess a firearm legally, in accordance with 18 USC 922(g). However, there are also other categories of people who cannot own a firearm. A person convicted of a misdemeanor involving domestic violence, a veteran who has received a dishonorable discharge, or anyone who qualifies as a drug addict, pursuant to the federal Controlled Substances Act. Anyone possessing a firearm who falls under these categories could face up to ten years in prison.
THE USE OR POSSESSION OF A GUN IN A DRUG TRAFFICKING CRIME OR ANOTHER VIOLENT CRIME
18 USC 924(c) defines possession or use of a gun during the commission of a drug trafficking crime or other violent felonies. Mandatory minimum sentences for those who possess a gun during a drug trafficking or violent crime are particularly severe and lengthen depending on a defendant’s criminal history. For a first-time offender who has a gun in his possession during a drug trafficking or other violent crime, there is a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison. These gun charges under 18 USC 924(c) are particularly harsh because they can not run concurrently, which means even longer time in federal prison. As gun crime lawyers experienced in handling 18 USC 924(c) matters, we can assist you in mounting an effective defense, potentially reducing the time you might spend in jail.
Talk To An Experienced Federal Criminal Lawyer Today
(800) 635-1683
(MOBILE USERS CLICK TO CALL)
Misdemeanor Crimes
Although misdemeanor crimes are serious, they are far less serious than felony criminal offenses. However, it’s still very important to hire an experienced criminal lawyer to handle your misdemeanor case. An experienced North Carolina Law firm like the King Law Firm will guide you through every step of the legal process and will increase your chances of obtaining a successful result in court.
Misdemeanors in North Carolina are separated into the following categories:
Class A1 misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of up to 150 days in jail and a discretionary fine. Types of crimes for a Class A1 Misdemeanor: assault with a deadly weapon, assault inflicting serious injury, assault on a female or a government employee, violation of a restraining order, and sexual battery.
Class 1 misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of 120 days in jail and a discretionary fine.
Types of crimes for a Class 1 Misdemeanor: possession of drug paraphernalia, larceny, possession of stolen goods, damaging real or personal property, communicating threats, and prostitution.
Class 2 misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of 60 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Types of crimes for a Class 2 Misdemeanor: simple assault, disorderly conduct, resisting a police officer, and carrying a concealed weapon.
Class 3 misdemeanor the least serious type of misdemeanor, carries a maximum penalty of 20 days in jail and a $200 fine.
Types of crimes for a Class 3 Misdemeanor: simple possession of marijuana, concealing goods in a store, and city code violations.
If You Are Charged With A Misdemeanor Crime.
Your case will be heard by a district court judge. At that point, you may choose to negotiate with the district attorney for a lesser charge or you may decide to plead not guilty and request a trial. It may be possible to request to have your case dismissed depending on your past criminal history, or possibly serve community service or attend a substance abuse program that might result in the judge dismissing your case.
If you should decide to request a trial, the district attorney must prove that you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Misdemeanor cases are heard before a district court judge. The judge will hear all of the evidence and will decide if the district attorney has proved that you are guilty of the crime. If the judge finds that you are not guilty you are free to go. If the judge finds that you are guilty of the crime, he will normally sentence you at that time. The sentence can range from a small fine to a prison sentence.
The King Law Firm has many years of experience helping those who have been charged with misdemeanor crimes. Our goal is to assure you receive fair treatment and, in many cases, we are able to have cases dismissed due to lack of or insufficient evidence.
For more information on how to increase your chances of success, call one of our experienced federal crimes lawyers today at
(855) 205-9689
We Put Our Clients First
Over 30 Years of Experience
Free & Confidential Consultations
Available to Meet You Anywhere
Focused on Criminal Law
Here for You 24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week
We Don’t Get Paid Until You Do
What Our Clients Say
Aggressive
Representation
You Can Trust
King Law Firm Office Locations
Jacksonville
Fayetteville
Wilmington
Elizabeth City
Call Today
(910) 455-4065
Contact Us
112 Old Bridge Street
Jacksonville, NC 28541