Powerful Defense Against The Toughest Criminal Charges

Facing a felony is a serious situation that could drastically alter your life. Felonies are the most severe category of crimes, and the consequences of a conviction can be profound, including heavy fines and significant prison time. In the pivotal hours and days after your arrest, the support of a seasoned criminal defense attorney becomes indispensable. An experienced defense attorney can help you make sense of the charges against you, protect your rights as a defendant and devise the right legal strategy.

Certified North Carolina Criminal Law Specialist

At Todd Neal Law, PA, we understand the gravity of your situation. With a deep commitment to defending your rights, we bring a unique combination of skills and experience to the table. Our attorney, Todd Neal, is a board certified criminal law specialist in North Carolina, which is a rare achievement. He draws upon his background as a former prosecutor to develop a strategy to expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and work toward a possible reduction in charges, dismissal or not guilty verdict. Todd can help you take on the strongest charges, including murder and rape, in courts throughout the state.

Your Defense Against Felony Charges

We are well-versed in the nuances of criminal defense, and our approach is always one of precision and dedication. Among the felony-level charges we handle, there are:

• Violent offenses: We provide a vigorous defense against charges of violence, such as murder, aggravated assault and manslaughter.
• Weapons charges: We can advise and defend you against gun-related charges, including unlawful possession of a firearm.
• Larceny and possession of stolen goods: Auto theft and other major property theft charges.
• Burglary and breaking or entering: Defending you against accusations of unlawful entry with intent to commit a crime inside.
• Robbery with a dangerous weapon: From a small knife to something much more dangerous, we will defend you no matter the item.
• Fraud and other white collar crimes: Our understanding of financial and regulatory matters guides our strategy in these intricate cases.

Our Promise As Your North Carolina Defense Lawyer

As your legal defense firm, we will help you at every stage of your case, from your initial arrest and police interrogations to bond hearings, other pretrial matters, and motions for discovery, all the way through plea negotiations and trial. Todd Neal is a respected trial lawyer who will seek a reasonable plea bargain but will not hesitate to go to court to give you the best chance at justice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Felony Charges

Below are answers to common concerns people have after an arrest or investigation in North Carolina.

What differentiates a felony from a misdemeanor in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, crimes are divided into two main levels based on seriousness and potential penalties. Misdemeanors are considered less severe offenses, while felonies involve conduct that the state treats as far more serious.

Key differences often include:

• Possible penalties and prison exposure: Felonies can carry long prison sentences in the state system, while misdemeanors usually involve shorter jail terms handled locally. A conviction for a felony may also bring extended probation or post-release supervision.
• Long-term consequences after a conviction: Felony convictions can affect voting rights, firearm possession and employment opportunities for years. Misdemeanors still carry consequences but typically do not create the same lasting restrictions.

North Carolina organizes felonies into classes ranging from Class A, the most serious, down to Class I.

Is it possible for a felony charge to be reduced to a misdemeanor in North Carolina?

Yes. In some cases, a felony allegation may later be reduced to a misdemeanor, depending on the evidence and the circumstances of the case.

Examples of factors that may affect how a charge develops include:

• Strength of the evidence and witness statements: If key details are disputed or evidence raises questions, the charge may change as the case moves forward. The state must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt.
• The defendant’s prior record and the nature of the incident: A person with little or no criminal history may sometimes face different options than someone with prior convictions. The specific facts surrounding the alleged offense also play a major role.

Because felony allegations carry serious weight in North Carolina, these decisions are rarely simple.

Will I go to jail for a first-time felony offense in North Carolina?

Many people assume a first felony always leads to prison, but North Carolina’s sentencing structure considers more than just the charge itself. Judges rely on a detailed grid system that evaluates both the offense class and the person’s prior record level.

Important sentencing factors include:

• The felony class assigned to the offense: Higher-level felonies often require active prison sentences, while lower-level felonies sometimes allow alternatives such as probation. The classification greatly shapes the possible outcomes.
• Prior record level and aggravating circumstances: A person with no criminal record starts in a lower category on the sentencing grid. However, certain facts surrounding the case can still influence the judge’s decision.

Sentencing decisions ultimately depend on how the law applies to the specific facts presented in court.

Schedule A Free Consultation Today

If you or a loved one is facing felony charges, don’t wait. Contact Todd Neal Law, PA today and let us stand with you in this critical time. Call 919-375-2886 or email us to arrange a free initial consultation to discuss your case with Attorney Todd Neal. You can meet in person, by phone or via video chat.