criminal defense handcuffs

The defense lawyers at our firm help people with a wide range of different criminal charges and allegations of wrongdoing.

Whether it’s for a DUI in Shelby, a serious felony in Rutherfordton, a misdemeanor assault, or some other criminal accusation, we’d like to help.

“Our system of justice has become pretty complicated.  We think it’s a really good idea to have an experienced courtroom lawyer by your side – David Teddy, Criminal Defense Lawyer Cleveland County NC

What should I do if I was arrested?

The first steps after getting arrested should include gathering information and beginning your defense.

You are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The State of North Carolina carries the Burden of Proof.

Those are part of your Constitutional Rights, which also include things like the Right to Remain Silent, the Right to Legal Counsel, and protections against unreasonable searches and seizures.

Drug Charges Legal Representation 

In the presentation of evidence, the ADA (Assistant District Attorney) may call witnesses against you and introduce proof of alleged wrongdoing to the trier of fact.

We very much understand false accusations and mistakes are made every day.

As defense attorneys in Shelby, we often have a lot of questions for clients.

Our goal is to provide sound legal advice predicated on thorough research, investigation, and preparation.

We ask questions not to embarrass you but to provide helpful information about the best-case and worst-case scenarios.

It’s important to consider things like:

  • Prior Criminal History, if any
  • Nature and Extent of the Evidence
    • Witness Statements
    • Video Recordings
  • Confessions / Admissions of Wrongdoing

Can I get my charges Dismissed?

Whether charges can get dismissed depends a lot on the evidence the State may have against you.

That’s one reason we carefully review the evidence with you, including police reports and the supporting Charging Documentation.

DWI Defense Lawyers 

It’s also important to consider alternatives to a trial, including any options for deferred prosecution or earning a dismissal through the completion of Community Service.

Defense lawyers focus on providing an honest assessment of options.

“While dismissal is preferable, sometimes limiting the consequences of a conviction and negotiating a plea is the smart way to go – David Teddy, Shelby Criminal Defense Lawyer

Do I need a lawyer?

Four sheriffs walking through a downtown areaTo be clear, you can represent yourself in court against criminal charges.

While that may be your legal right, it may not be the best thing for you and your future.

There are very few criminal matters, whether they be felony or misdemeanor charges, that don’t benefit from guidance from a seasoned legal professional.

There is more than going to court and hoping for the best.

The State has experienced professionals prosecuting matters.

“You and your case deserve the attention of an experienced criminal lawyer – Daniel Talbert, Criminal Defense Rutherford County NC

Handling a matter like a speeding ticket or traffic citation by yourself can have consequences for your Driver’s License and insurance points.

Things like Assault on a Female or larceny charges are substantially more serious.

A conviction, even for a misdemeanor assault, can make it difficult to find a job.

As such, while a defense lawyer isn’t required, it likely is a very good idea to seek experienced legal counsel.

Cleveland County Criminal Defense Lawyers – Teddy, Meekins, & Talbert Law Firm

If you have been charged with a crime in Shelby in Cleveland County or in Rutherford County, know that we understand the emotions and confusion you may be experiencing.

If you’ve been arrested, we recommend you remain silent and request to speak with a lawyer.

You can count on our criminal defense attorneys to aggressively protect your rights, explore all options available to you and seek the best possible resolution of your case.

Start getting a handle on the criminal charges you or a loved one faces by contacting us today by phone or online.

We can provide a prompt, completely confidential consultation and get to work on your case right away.

Shelby Criminal Defense Lawyers You Can Count On

We have always been passionate about criminal defense at Teddy, Meekins & Talbert, P.L.L.C. Two of our lawyers, David Teddy and  Daniel Talbert are certified by the North Carolina State Bar as Criminal Law Specialists. Achieving this status means that they have:

  • Passed an examination
  • Worked substantially in criminal law practice
  • Attended ongoing training and legal education seminars in criminal defense law
  • Received a favorable evaluation from their peers.

The attorneys have, in fact, dedicated their entire legal careers to protecting the rights of the accused and have earned wide recognition in the North Carolina legal community. Mr. Teddy, a former President of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice, Mr. Talbert, and Ms. Garren often are asked to lead criminal defense seminars and share their knowledge and insights with other lawyers.

We believe that our experience can make a difference for you. We can bring our strong grasp of North Carolina criminal law and criminal procedure to your case as well as our skills as investigators, negotiators, and trial lawyers.

Above all, our experience has taught us the importance of open and honest communication with our clients. You can trust us to fully explain your situation, answer your questions, address your concerns, and make sure that you always know what is happening at every stage in your case.

Please see our Client Testimonials to learn more about our approach to serving clients.

How Our Shelby Criminal Lawyer Can Help You

Teddy, Meekins & Talbert, P.L.L.C., can provide a broad range of legal services to you, including:

  • Requesting a reasonable bond that will allow you to live at home while your criminal case is pending.
  • Seeking discovery of all evidence the prosecution plans to use against you.
  • Conducting an independent investigation of your case, including exploring any defenses that can be raised on your behalf.
  • Filing pretrial motions that seek to have the charges against you dismissed or to exclude from your case any illegally obtained or unduly prejudicial evidence.
  • Advising you on the risks and benefits you face if your case goes to trial and, in turn, pursuing the course of action that you wish to take.
  • Negotiating with prosecutors for a plea arrangement that will minimize your punishment in exchange for a guilty or no-contest plea.

  • Going to trial with a carefully prepared defense strategy that is geared towards making the strongest challenge possible to the prosecution’s case.
  • If you are convicted, presenting evidence at your sentencing hearing that is aimed at minimizing the fines, jail time or other consequences you face.
  • Pursuing post-conviction relief for you, including appeals, motions for appropriate relief and expungement of past convictions.

Our lawyers are often sought out on the hardest of criminal cases in the hardest of times for the individuals and families involved in the case. We take pride in doing our very best to zealously represent our clients in every case.