Why Choose Us?
- Aggressive Defense Focused on Protecting Your Rights
- Extensive Experience in North Carolina Criminal Courts
- Personalized Defense Strategies Tailored to Your Charges
- Free Consultations & Clear Communication
Being arrested in North Carolina can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face the criminal justice system alone. From the moment of arrest through resolution, the attorneys at Summit Law Group are committed to defending the principle that you are innocent until proven guilty. We stand by clients throughout Craven County, Pamlico County, and surrounding areas, offering strong legal defense and steady support during a stressful time.
Hear From Our Clients
Very happy with the communication. What I was going for was going to be tough. However, Juliana Styron was with me the whole way with sound advice. Juliana was very comforting and allowed me to not be so afraid or upset. I highly recommend. – William H.
Criminal Defense Cases We Handle
At Summit Law Group, we are highly experienced in defending clients against a wide range of criminal offenses, including:
DWI Defense
North Carolina has some of the strictest DWI laws in the United States.
You may be charged with DWI if:
- Law enforcement determines you are impaired based on behavior or field sobriety tests
- Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08 or higher
- Your BAC is .04 or higher for commercial drivers
Several factors can increase the severity of DWI penalties, including:
- BAC of .15 or higher
- Having a child in the vehicle
- Reckless driving
- Causing an accident or injury
Even a first-time DWI conviction can result in a one-year license suspension and significant fines. Additional consequences may include:
- Ignition interlock device installation
- Dramatically higher insurance premiums
- Permanent criminal record
- Possible jail time
Having an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential when facing DWI charges.
Drug Crime Defense
Drug charges in North Carolina can lead to severe criminal penalties and long-term consequences.
Our attorneys defend clients facing charges such as:
- Possession of controlled substances
- Drug trafficking
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Drug manufacturing or cultivation
- Distribution of drugs to minors
Drug crime cases often involve complex legal issues, including search and seizure violations, evidence handling, and constitutional rights. Our legal team carefully examines every detail to build a strong defense strategy.
Misdemeanor Criminal Defense
While less serious than felonies, misdemeanor convictions can still result in jail time and fines. Common misdemeanor offenses include:
- Shoplifting
- Assault
- Trespassing
- Carrying a concealed weapon
- Communicating threats
- Possession of stolen property
- Underage drinking
Misdemeanors in North Carolina may carry penalties of up to 120 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
Felony Criminal Defense
Felony charges are among the most serious offenses under North Carolina law. Examples of felony charges include:
- Felony larceny (property worth more than $1,000)
- Conspiracy
- Assault causing serious injury
- Drug trafficking or distribution
Felony convictions can result in:
- Lengthy prison sentences
- Loss of voting rights
- Loss of firearm ownership rights
- Permanent criminal record
Military Criminal Defense
Active-duty service members facing criminal charges require specialized defense strategies. Our attorneys provide defense for both:
- Military-related offenses
- Civilian criminal charges involving service members
We understand the unique legal challenges faced by military personnel and work to protect both your career and your rights.
Criminal Record Expungement
North Carolina law allows certain individuals to expunge eligible criminal records, effectively sealing them from public view.
Expungement may be available for:
- Certain nonviolent misdemeanors
- Certain nonviolent felonies
- Some dismissed or not guilty charges
However, expungement is generally not available for:
- Traffic offenses
- Violent crimes
- Sex offenses
- Certain serious drug crimes
- High-level felonies
Recent changes to North Carolina law have expanded eligibility for some individuals.
If granted, an expungement prevents most employers and background checks from discovering the offense.
Speak With a New Bern Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
If you are facing criminal charges in North Carolina, acting quickly can make a significant difference in your case. At Summit Law Group, we work tirelessly to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome, whether that means reducing charges, negotiating a resolution, or fighting your case in court. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
We proudly defend clients throughout New Bern, Craven County, Pamlico County, and surrounding communities in North Carolina.