Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Attorneys Based in Winston-Salem

We served clients in Winston-Salem, Greensboro, the Greater Piedmont and Foothills, and Across the State

 It doesn’t take much to be charged with a crime in North Carolina. For instance, one too many drinks before getting behind the wheel can easily lead to a charge of vehicular homicide. A dispute between spouses can quickly escalate into domestic violence accusations. Possession of illegal drugs can result in more serious allegations of drug trafficking, distribution, or possession with intent to distribute.

At Gerber, Green & Principe, PLLC, we understand that even responsible, hardworking, and good natured people occasionally make mistakes. Sometimes, the innocent are also wrongly accused. A criminal defendant may also be overcharged with very serious offenses that exceed the person’s actual offense and responsibility. No matter your situation, you can count on our lawyers to vigorously fight for your rights and best interests and to advise you along the way. We are experienced litigators and we won’t back down.

Learn more about how our attorneys can help you. You can do so by calling (336) 725-6611.

Ready To Handle Any State or Federal Charge

Our attorneys have the knowledge and skill to diligently defend you against all types of misdemeanor and felony charges in state and federal courts. Attorney Karen D. Gerber is a talented criminal defense attorney with decades of experience and is Board Certified in Criminal Law - State & Federal. Attorneys Graham T. Green and Craig M. Principe are experienced criminal law attorneys who leverage their years of experience as former federal prosecutors and former state prosecutors to serve criminal defendants and help them craft the best possible defense.

Uncovering All The Facts To Build A Strong Defense

Our attorneys have significant experience analyzing all kinds of evidence from police investigative reports to medical and forensic evidence. Our ability to quickly evaluate and size up a case and to put pressure on prosecutors by identifying evidentiary weaknesses helps our clients develop potent defense strategies or negotiate the best possible plea outcomes.

What is the Criminal Defense Procedure In North Carolina?

Understanding the criminal defense process in North Carolina is crucial to handling your case. Here are the key steps involved:

• Pre-Charge Investigations

• Charging by Warrant, Magistrate’s Order, Complaint, or Indictment

• Arrest and Custodial Interview

• Initial Appearance and Bond Hearings

• Post-Charge Investigations

• Probably Cause Hearings

• Indictment of Felonies and Transfer of Cases to the Superior Court Level

• Discovery Motions

• Discovery Review

• Discussions with Prosecutors and Plea Negotiations

• Plea or Arraignment for Trial

• Sentencing or Trial (Bench Trial in District Court or Jury Trial in Superior Court)

• Possibly Appeals After Trial or Sentencing

We can guide you through each of these steps and offer knowledgeable advice and support along the way. Learn more about how we can assist you by calling (336) 725-6611.

How Does Federal Criminal Procedure Differ From State Criminal Procedure?

The federal criminal procedure differs from state procedure in several ways, primarily in the jurisdiction and the entities involved. Federal attorneys represent the U.S. government in federal cases which involve federal laws and rules of criminal procedure. Local prosecutors handle state cases, which deal with state-specific criminal laws and rules of criminal procedure. Federal procedures often involve grand jury indictments, expedited motions, discovery, and plea negotiations, and can lead to very severe penalties due to the nature of federal offenses.

What Immediate Steps Should You Take After Being Charged With A Crime In North Carolina?

The moments following criminal charges are critical to your defense strategy. First and foremost, exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say to law enforcement can be used against you, even casual comments that may seem harmless. Politely but firmly decline to answer questions until your attorney is present. This is not an admission of guilt but a protection of your constitutional rights.

Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Early legal intervention allows for preservation of evidence, identification of potential witnesses, and strategic planning before the prosecution builds momentum. Time-sensitive evidence such as surveillance footage or electronic data may be lost if not promptly secured.

Do not discuss your case with anyone other than your attorney. Conversations with friends, family members or cellmates are not protected by attorney-client privilege and could be compelled as testimony.

Additionally, avoid posting anything about your situation on social media, as police investigators and prosecutors regularly monitor these platforms for incriminating statements.

What Is The Best Way To Have Charges Dismissed?

Several effective strategies can lead to a dismissal of some or all charges North Carolina courts. Constitutional violations present powerful opportunities for dismissal. If evidence was obtained through an illegal search or seizure, attorneys can file motions to suppress this evidence, potentially undermining the prosecution’s entire case.

Procedural errors or evidentiary issues also provide grounds for dismissal, including chain of custody issues with evidence, biased or compromised witnesses for the government, missed filing or discovery deadlines, intentional or negligent destruction of evidence, lack or forensic evidence, or improper or defective search warrants or charging documents. For first-time offenders, North Carolina law also offers several diversion programs that can lead to dismissal upon successful completion, including conditional discharge pleas, drug treatment courts, and formal or informal deferred prosecution agreements that may include community service or other compliance options.

What Are The Long-Term Consequences of A Criminal Conviction In North Carolina?

A criminal conviction in North Carolina extends far beyond any immediate sentence. Employment opportunities become limited as employers conduct background checks and often reject applicants with criminal records. Certain professions have licensing restrictions that prevent those with convictions from entering these fields.

Housing options become severely restricted, as landlords commonly deny housing to those with criminal records. Federal housing assistance programs may be unavailable to those with certain convictions. For non-citizens, even misdemeanor convictions can trigger deportation proceedings.

Some convictions can also permanently impact your constitutional rights, potentially restricting firearm ownership, voting rights, and jury service. These far-reaching consequences underscore the importance of aggressive defense from the moment charges are filed. With experienced legal representation, many North Carolina residents are able to successfully avoid convictions or substantially mitigate the consequences of their case.

Why Hire Gerber, Green & Principe, PLLC, to Handle Your State or Federal Criminal Case?

Choosing the right attorney can make all the difference in your criminal defense case. Here’s why Gerber, Green & Principe, should be your first choice:

Our attorneys have the knowledge and skill to diligently defend you against all types of misdemeanor and felony charges in state and federal courts. Attorney Karen D. Gerber is an talented criminal defense attorney with decades of experience and is Board Certified in Criminal Law - State & Federal. Attorneys Graham T. Green and Craig M. Principe are experienced criminal law attorneys who leverage their years of experience as former federal prosecutors and former state prosecutors to served criminal defendants and help them craft the best possible defense.

Learn About Your Rights And Options Today

 Call our office at (336) 725-6611 to get a free, confidential consultation about your rights and options, or Schedule an Appointment using the link below. Free consultations apply to criminal defense consultations only.