Martine Law is a North Carolina law firm representing clients accused of criminal offenses. Our attorneys handle cases statewide and work to protect clients’ rights at every stage of the legal process. If you are facing charges, our team can help you understand your legal options and navigate the criminal justice system.
Our Criminal Defense Services
At Martine Law, we represent clients accused of criminal offenses ranging from misdemeanors to felony charges. Our attorneys understand the challenges of facing criminal allegations and work to protect our clients’ rights throughout the legal process.
Facing criminal charges can be stressful, especially when you worry about potential consequences to your freedom, finances, career, or family. Understanding the charges against you and the legal process can help you make informed decisions about your case.
You do not have to navigate the criminal process without legal guidance. At Martine Law, we advocate for our clients and work to protect their rights at every stage of their cases.
We review each case’s circumstances, evaluate the evidence, and pursue defense strategies based on the applicable law and facts.
We provide a wide range of criminal defense services, including pre-charge representation, DWI defense, and assault charges.
Assault
If you are accused of assault, the potential consequences depend on the specific allegations and circumstances of the case. The state recognizes several assault offenses with different classifications and penalties. Our attorneys evaluate the evidence, explain your legal options, and work to protect your rights throughout the criminal process.
Domestic Violence
The allegations can have significant consequences beyond a criminal case. Depending on the circumstances, they may involve criminal charges or protective-order proceedings. Our attorneys help clients understand the allegations, evaluate the available evidence, and protect their legal rights throughout the applicable court process.
Drug Charges
The charges can carry significant consequences under the law. The potential classification and penalties may depend on the substance, quantity, alleged conduct, and circumstances involved. Our attorneys evaluate the evidence and circumstances of the case, explain your legal options, and work to protect your rights throughout the criminal process.
DWI & Traffic Defense
The law prohibits impaired driving, and a conviction can result in significant legal consequences. Our attorneys examine the circumstances of the traffic stop, available evidence, chemical testing, and other relevant issues. We work to protect your rights and develop a defense strategy based on the facts and applicable law.
Misdemeanor
Charges can still carry significant consequences, depending on the offense and circumstances. The state classifies misdemeanors into different levels, with penalties varying accordingly. Our attorneys evaluate the allegations and evidence, explain your legal options, and pursue an appropriate defense strategy based on the facts and applicable law.
Larceny & Theft
The theft laws cover various offenses involving the unlawful taking or possession of property. The classification and potential consequences may depend on the value and type of property involved and the circumstances of the alleged offense. Our attorneys evaluate the evidence and work to protect your rights throughout the criminal process.
Felony
The charges can carry substantial criminal consequences and may affect other areas of your life. The potential penalties depend on the offense, classification, prior record, and other circumstances. Our attorneys evaluate the allegations and evidence, explain your legal options, and develop a defense strategy based on the facts and applicable law.
Sex Crimes
The charges can carry serious consequences and may involve complex legal and evidentiary issues. Our attorneys carefully evaluate the allegations, available evidence, and circumstances of the case. We work to protect your constitutional and legal rights and develop a defense strategy based on the facts and applicable law.
Protective & Restraining Orders
The order matters can involve significant restrictions and legal consequences. Depending on the circumstances, a matter may involve a Domestic Violence Protective Order under Chapter 50B or a civil no-contact order under Chapter 50C. Our attorneys help clients understand the allegations, legal process, and rights involved.
What Our Clients Say
“From the moment I called Martine Law, I was given strength and guidance through a criminal case I thought was going to put me behind bars for a very long time. Instead, this firm stuck with me and guided me to an outcome I am so grateful for. Now, I'm not behind locked doors but home and with my family.”
Shawn S.
“I got into a lot of trouble a few years back. Xavier Martine was fantastic, both inside the courtroom and out. He kept me out of jail and allowed me a path to get my life back on track. Hopefully I’ll never need a criminal defense attorney again. But if I do, he’ll be the person I call!”
Tyler Z.
“Xavier and his team are always on top of their cases, working hard to get more information and keeping you up to date on your situation. His diverse experience in different areas of law allows him to really attack the legality of your case and give the best option to moving forward in the legal process. I really appreciate his dedication to fairness in the way the law is applied.”
Collin D
Our Process
STEP 2
We’ll discuss your situation and goals and determine if we can help.
STEP 3
If we’re a good fit, we’ll fight to get you the best results possible!
Understand the Criminal Process
Understanding the process can help you prepare for what lies ahead. The exact steps vary depending on the charges, how the case was initiated, and whether it is a misdemeanor or felony. Our criminal defense lawyers can explain what to expect at each stage and help you understand your legal options.
If you are arrested, you may be taken before a magistrate for an initial appearance. The magistrate advises you of the charges and certain rights and addresses conditions of pretrial release. Not every criminal case begins with an arrest; some cases begin with a criminal summons or other criminal process.
In cases requiring a first appearance, a defendant is brought before a district court judge. The judge informs the defendant of the charges, ensures that the defendant has a copy of the criminal process, addresses the defendant’s right to counsel, and reviews eligibility for pretrial release.
Depending on the case, pretrial proceedings may include a probable-cause hearing, pretrial motions, discovery, plea negotiations, and other court proceedings. In felony cases, a probable-cause hearing may be held unless waived, and the State may seek a grand-jury indictment.
A case may be resolved through a guilty or no-contest plea, or the defendant may plead not guilty and proceed toward trial. If a case goes to trial, the State must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Misdemeanor trials generally occur in District Court, while felony trials occur in Superior Court.
If you are convicted or enter a guilty or no-contest plea that the court accepts, the case may proceed to sentencing. The judge imposes the sentence under the applicable law. Your attorney can advocate on your behalf and present relevant information to the court.
North Carolina Misdemeanor and Felony Penalties
You could face serious penalties affecting your freedom, finances, career, and future. The state has specific sentencing rules based on the offense classification, prior record, and other circumstances. You could face time in custody, fines, or both.
Here’s what you could face if convicted:
Class 3 misdemeanor
- Fine only in many cases
- Up to 20 days in jail
- Examples: certain lower-level offenses
Class 2 misdemeanor
- Up to 60 days in jail
- Fine of up to $1,000
- Example: simple assault
Class 1 misdemeanor
- Up to 120 days in jail
- Fine determined by the court
- Example: larceny of property valued at $1,000 or less
Felony
- Sentencing varies by class and prior records
- Potential imprisonment varies
These penalties are not all-encompassing. Depending on your charges, criminal history, and the circumstances of your case, you could face enhanced penalties, additional time in custody, and additional fines.
We will provide aggressive legal representation. Our goal is to protect your rights and freedom.
Criminal Defense FAQs
Where are criminal cases in Charlotte handled?
Criminal cases are generally handled through the Mecklenburg County court system. Misdemeanor and felony cases may proceed through District Court and Superior Court depending on the charge and procedural stage.
Where can I check my Charlotte criminal court date?
You can access court information through the North Carolina Judicial Branch’s online resources. Court dates and case information can change, so defendants should verify the current information through an official court source or with their attorney.
Can a misdemeanor case go to Superior Court?
Generally, the District Court handles misdemeanor cases, while Superior Court has original jurisdiction over felony cases. However, the court procedures allow certain misdemeanor cases to proceed to Superior Court under specific circumstances, including appeals from District Court.
Can a Charlotte criminal defense lawyer handle my Mecklenburg County case?
A North Carolina criminal defense attorney can represent clients in criminal matters within the attorney’s authorized practice and subject to the requirements of the courts. The specific representation available depends on the case, court, and attorney’s practice.
Get Started on Your Criminal Defense Case Today
At Martine Law, we fight for just solutions that keep the criminal justice system honest. We’re dedicated to getting you the outcome you deserve, and we’re not afraid to take the gloves off if we need to. Contact us today to speak to an Intake Specialist. Spanish speaking staff available.