How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in Raleigh?

June 11, 2025 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

When you’re facing criminal charges in Raleigh or Wake County proper, understanding the true criminal lawyer cost and legal fees is helpful in making informed decisions about your defense.

The investment in legal representation varies significantly based on several key factors, including things like: the severity of charges against you, whether you’re dealing with misdemeanor or felony allegations, the complexity of your situation, and how long your case may take to resolve.

This guide outlines how defense attorneys typically structure their fees, explains common billing approaches, and clarifies which services are generally included or excluded in legal representation agreements.

Presumption of Innocence and Reasonable Doubt in North Carolina

May 27, 2025 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

The presumption of innocence is a foundational principle in North Carolina criminal law and throughout the United States. It is not a suggestion or a formality. It is the legal starting point in every prosecution.

A criminal defendant accused of a crime is presumed innocent.

That presumption remains in place unless and until the State presents evidence that fully satisfies or entirely convinces the Finder of Fact of guilt.

Drug Trafficking, Habitual Felony and Vehicle Offenses

December 14, 2024 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

Recent NC Court of Appeals Opinion Highlights Key Points on Habitual Felony, Drug Trafficking and Vehicle Offenses

A recent decision by the North Carolina Court of Appeals in State v. Garmon helps clarify some of the standards courts apply when examining drug trafficking charges and related issues. In particular, it offers insight into how prosecutors must prove the offense of “maintaining a vehicle” for keeping or selling controlled substances. Additionally, the opinion touches on the timing and validity of habitual felon indictments—a factor that can significantly influence sentencing outcomes.

While this is not a groundbreaking ruling that completely changes the legal landscape, it serves as a reminder that drug cases often involve complex legal analyses. Understanding how courts interpret statutes and apply long-standing legal principles can help people charged with such offenses. The Fanney Law Firm, located in Raleigh, North Carolina (107 Park Ave #100, Raleigh, NC 27605, phone: 919-617-7009, email: John@FanneyLaw.com), represents clients across Wake County and beyond. If you or someone you care about is facing drug-related charges, reviewing how appellate courts examine evidence and procedure may be a helpful starting point.

A Wake County Defense Attorney’s Holiday Guide: Lessons From the Courtroom

November 5, 2024 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

The holidays transform Wake County. Downtown Raleigh’s streets fill with celebrating crowds. Shopping centers from Crabtree Valley Mall to North Hills buzz with activity. Neighborhoods light up with family gatherings.

Through a criminal defense attorney’s eyes, this festive season reveals patterns worth understanding – patterns that can help you avoid becoming another holiday case file.

If you or a loved one face DUI charges or other criminal legal matter in Wake County, give the Fanney Law Firm a call now. We provide a confidential consultation: 919-617-7009

Criminal Lawyer Terms in North Carolina: A Guide in Plain Language

October 30, 2024 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

When you face criminal charges in Wake County, whether it’s for a DUI, a domestic violence assault, or even a drug charge, you step into a world of sometimes complicated legal terms. From the Wake County Justice Center in downtown Raleigh to conversations with your criminal lawyer, you’ll likely hear words and phrases that might be new to you.

It’s OK to be a bit overwhelmed. That’s normal, and that’s also why having a lawyer on your side makes sense.

The criminal justice system uses specific language – words that often have exact legal meanings. These meanings can matter when they describe what’s happening in your case. You might hear certain terms from judges, lawyers, or court staff. You might also see them in court papers. And you might need to use them yourself when talking to your criminal lawyer.

Understanding Domestic Violence Protective Order Hearings in Wake County

September 28, 2024 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

If you’re facing allegations of domestic violence in Wake County, North Carolina, navigating the legal system can be a daunting and complex process. While criminal charges may be looming, there also may be a related Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO) under North Carolina General Statute 50B.

We hope to demystify the DVPO hearing process. If you have questions, give John Fanney in Raleigh a call at 919-617-7009.

The Purpose and Nature of a Domestic Violence Protective Order Hearing

DWI Sobriety Tests in North Carolina: A Comprehensive Guide

January 30, 2024 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

Driving While Impaired (DWI) is a serious offense in North Carolina, carrying significant legal consequences. Understanding the nuances of DWI Sobriety Tests, especially the Standardized Field

Sobriety Tests (SFSTs), can be crucial for anyone charged with DUI in Raleigh, North Carolina.

This comprehensive guide aims to delve into the intricacies of sobriety tests, their reliability, and the concept of probable cause within the context of North Carolina’s legal framework.

Whether you are a resident of North Carolina or simply curious about DWI laws and procedures, we hope this article offers valuable insights into the sobering realities of driving under the influence.

Memory and Justice: The Intricacies of Mental Competence

December 20, 2023 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

Diving into the legal complexities of mental competence, our latest blog post examines the intriguing case of State v. Bethea.

This North Carolina Court of Appeals decision scrutinizes the challenging intersection of criminal law and cognitive impairment.

Highlighting a defendant’s struggle with memory loss due to a traumatic brain injury, we dissect how such factors influence the determination of legal competence to stand trial.

HOLIDAY DUI TIPS

November 30, 2023 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

As the festive season approaches, Raleigh’s streets come alive with the spirit of celebration.

The atmosphere of good tidings can sometimes overshadow the sobering reality of impaired driving arrests.

A seemingly innocuous celebration can abruptly end in a harsh encounter with the law and a long night in the Wake County Jail.

Common Misconceptions about DUI Charges

October 4, 2023 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

Nestled in Wake County is Raleigh, a bustling city where the NC driving while impaired laws are strictly enforced.

The consequences of a DUI charge are far-reaching, touching not only the legal realm but the personal and professional lives of those accused of “drunk driving.”

The process can be intricate and occasionally overwhelming, particularly for those with little to no prior experience with criminal charges and the court system.

North Carolina Criminal Law Updates

Recent NC Court of Appeals Opinion Highlights Key Points on Habitual Felony, Drug Trafficking and Vehicle Offenses

The Purpose and Nature of a Domestic Violence Protective Order Hearing