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North Carolina Criminal Defense/DWI Defense Lawyer

Whether you’ve been arrested for DWI, drug trafficking, assault, larceny, or any other misdemeanor or felony charge – up to and including first degree murder – facing criminal charges can be terrifying. You don’t need just any criminal defense lawyer — you need a team that is focused exclusively on criminal defense and has the experience, skill, and proven track record to advocate on your behalf from day one.

Call our North Carolina criminal defense and DWI defense lawyers today!

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20+

years of experience

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100+

5-star reviews

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100%

criminal defense

Our Services

The Hiltzheimer Law Office team is here for you. Criminal defense is all we do, and we have worked hard to earn a reputation for both compassion and fierce advocacy for the accused. We recognize the intense stress associated with a criminal charge, which is why our approach to representation extends far beyond the courtroom.

DWI Defense

Need a North Carolina DWI attorney? The right DWI attorney can maximize your chances of a favorable outcome. We fight DWI charges like no one else, and we have the experience and skill to navigate the complicated legal landscape of a DWI case from beginning to end, including fighting DWI cases at trial.

Misdemeanor and Felony Death by Motor Vehicle

Being accused of a felony or misdemeanor death by vehicle can be a traumatic and extremely stressful experience. A felony-death-by-motor-vehicle NC attorney can create a strong defense.

Driving After Consuming While Under the Age of 21

The laws on driving after consuming while under the age of 21 in North Carolina are strict. Getting a DWI or Driving After Consuming While Under 21 charge can have serious consequences for your future. An experienced driving after consuming lawyer can help minimize the consequences to your life and record.

Reckless Driving

Arrested for reckless driving? North Carolina penalties can be severe, but a reckless-driving lawyer can advocate on your behalf both in and out of court for the best outcome possible.

Traffic Violations

Accused of traffic violations? Many North Carolina traffic violations are classified as misdemeanor crimes, while others are infractions. Regardless, traffic violations can raise insurance rates and even lead to license suspensions. A North Carolina traffic attorney can negotiate for reductions and in some cases outright dismissals, depending on the circumstances and your prior record.

Drug Possession

Penalties for drug possession in North Carolina can be serious. You need an attorney familiar with North Carolina drug possession laws to defend you and advocate on your behalf.

Possession With Intent to Sell/Deliver

The laws on possession with intent to sell or deliver in North Carolina outline harsh consequences. You need a possession-with-intent-to-sell-or-deliver attorney with experience defending drug crimes. North Carolina penalties may be serious, but your lawyer may be able to negotiate charges down or even obtain a dismissal of the charges.

Drug Trafficking

Drug trafficking charges in NC can lead to serious prison time. Our North Carolina drug-trafficking lawyers can craft a robust defense.

Misdemeanor and Felony Flee to Elude

Wondering how to beat a fleeing and eluding charge in NC? There are no guarantees, but a flee-to-elude-arrest criminal lawyer can help.

Larceny by Employee

A larceny-by-employee first offense can make it next to impossible to find future employment. Our larceny-by-employee lawyers are ready to defend you.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement charges in North Carolina are always felonies. An embezzlement attorney can argue against your charges and possibly even get them dismissed.

Larceny

Charged with felony or misdemeanor larceny? A larceny lawyer can help minimize negative ramifications.

Obtaining Property by False Pretenses

In North Carolina, obtaining property by false pretenses is a serious charge. You need an NC attorney for obtaining property by false pretenses.

Possession of a Firearm by Felon

Charged with unlawful possession of a firearm by felon? You need a possession-of-a-firearm attorney to craft a strong defense.

1st-Degree Forcible Rape

Do you need a North Carolina rape defense attorney? 1st-degree rape is one of the state’s most serious felonies — so you need serious representation.

2nd-Degree Forcible Rape

Second-degree rape isn’t far behind first-degree rape in terms of severity. You need an experienced second-degree rape defense attorney to advocate for your rights.

Sexual Battery

A sexual battery sentence carries considerable stigma and consequences. Our North Carolina sexual battery attorneys can help.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence charges in North Carolina are serious. A domestic violence attorney can negotiate on your behalf and defend your case at trial.

Murder

If you’re up against first-degree murder charges, your life and freedom are at risk. Our North Carolina murder defense lawyers are ready to fight for you.

Federal Crimes

Felony federal charges can be terrifying to face. Our federal attorneys in North Carolina are ready to defend you!

Expunctions

Expungement in North Carolina can help you get a fresh start, but expungements are hard to secure. Our North Carolina expungement lawyers can take you through the process.

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If you are charged with or suspected of a crime, call us immediately.

We are committed to providing the support and defense you need to protect your future. We are your team dedicated to fighting for the best outcome, so you can move forward with confidence. Let’s discuss your options—reach out for a consultation today!

Criminal Defense

When you’re charged with a crime, it might seem like even close friends have already decided you’re guilty. North Carolina criminal defense attorneys know you’re innocent until proven otherwise in a court of law.

Our criminal defense lawyers have vast experience defending those charged with virtually any crime. Whether you’re facing a petty offense with no potential jail time or you have been charged with a serious felony, our criminal defense lawyers can build a strong, personalized defense for you.

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DWI

It’s easy to panic if you’ve been arrested for DWI. North Carolina is notoriously tough on anyone arrested for driving while impaired. However, that doesn’t mean that you face a certain conviction.

The North Carolina DWI attorneys at Hiltzheimer Law Office have built a reputation for their skilled approach to defending DWIs. They can challenge police procedures used for field sobriety tests, evaluate your case for constitutional violations, analyze technical aspects of breathalyzer procedures, and look for violations of your rights that could potentially get your case thrown out. Even if you are ultimately convicted, we know the law from top to bottom and can help advocate for the most lenient sentence possible.

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man driving while drinking alcohol

Traffic Violations

You might not think you’ll experience much fallout from traffic violations. North Carolina might not impose jail time for a traffic violation, but you might face other consequences — including significant increases in your car insurance premiums and points added to your license. If you accumulate too many points in a given time period, your license can be suspended.

A North Carolina traffic attorney can review your case and develop a strategy to fight your alleged violation. While there are no guarantees in the legal system, a skilled attorney can often get a ticket reduced or dismissed.

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Case Results

Hiltzheimer Law Office, PLLC brings a wealth of training and experience to a law practice dedicated to advocating on behalf of the people of North Carolina. Founder Ben Hiltzheimer was trained as a trial attorney by the nation’s preeminent public defender agency, the federally funded Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia.

Hiltzheimer brings his extensive litigation experience to bear on state and federal criminal cases throughout North Carolina. Hiltzheimer has devoted his career to advocating on behalf of individuals whose liberty has been threatened by the power of state and federal governments. The firm is committed to aggressive representation on behalf of every client. Our clients often come to us for guidance through one of the most difficult and stressful times in their lives, and we take that responsibility seriously in every case.

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Not Guilty

DWI jury verdict superior court

Jury returned a Not Guilty verdict on a DWI charge following a successful challenge to the reliability of field sobriety tests and the Intox EC/IR II Breathalyzer.

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Dismissed

9-count felony indictment superior court

Durham Superior Court judge dismissed a 9-count felony indictment, including Assault with a Deadly Weapon, following a legal challenge on procedural grounds. Case remanded for entry of judgment.

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Not Guilty

DWI district court

Not Guilty verdict in DWI bench trial. State failed to establish that our client operated the vehicle, after client was found on the side of the road with a disabled vehicle with no one else in the vicinity.

*Each case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts and relevant law. We are committed to leaving no stone unturned in every case we take on, but past results in these sample cases are not a guarantee of future outcomes.

Larceny & Theft Crimes

Many people look at shoplifting and many other theft crimes as inconsequential. But did you know stealing property worth as little as $1,000 constitutes felony larceny in North Carolina? Having a theft or larceny crime on your record can have consequences that last long after you’ve served your sentence. Many employers avoid hiring anyone with theft or fraud convictions — even if the crimes are misdemeanors. Our defense team can help you fight felony or misdemeanor larceny charges and protect your future in the process.

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larceny

Fraud

Fraud allegations are serious business. If you’re accused of making false statements to obtain SNAP or other benefits, forged documents or signatures, committed tax evasion, or engaged in similar kinds of activities, you may face misdemeanor or felony fraud charges. It’s also easier than you think to be charged with fraud on a federal level — lying on an application for government benefits may lead to federal charges. Our NC fraud lawyers are prepared to offer both state and federal fraud defense.

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fraud
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If you are charged with or suspected of a crime, call us immediately.

We are here to help and be on your team to fight for the best outcome. Move forward with confidence, let’s discuss your options—reach out for a consultation today!

Sexual Battery

A North Carolina sexual battery charge is not as serious as a sexual assault charge, but that doesn’t mean a conviction won’t come with severe consequences. Although sexual battery is a misdemeanor crime, a conviction often means you’ll have to register as a sex offender for a decade or more. If you’ve been charged with sexual battery, the stakes are high — but our sexual battery attorneys can construct a strong, personalized defense to maximize your chances of an acquittal.

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sex crimes

Drug Possession

Wondering how to get drug possession charges dropped? There’s no guaranteed way, but working with a lawyer is vital. While possession of some drugs is a misdemeanor, possessing even small amounts of very highly controlled substances can result in a felony conviction.

You should always take drug possession charges seriously — and that starts with hiring experienced North Carolina drug possession lawyers.

Learn more about Drug Possession
Man delivering drugs to another

Possession With Intent to Sell/Deliver & Manufacture/ Sale/ Delivery

If you’ve been charged with possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver narcotics, you need an experienced drug crimes lawyer in your corner from the beginning. If you’re found guilty of possession with intent to manufacture, sell, or deliver, you could be facing significant prison time.

Our criminal defense lawyers have a wealth of experience defending drug charges, and we will get to know you and your case in order to begin crafting a personalized defense from day one.

Learn more about Possession With Intent to Sell
female drug dealer selling dose of cocaine to addict man to us dollar bills
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If you are charged with or suspected of a crime, call us immediately.

We are here to listen, guide, and fight for the best outcome in your case. Reach out today to take the first step toward a strong defense.

Drug Trafficking

Wondering how to beat a drug trafficking charge in NC? These are extremely serious charges and can be difficult to fight. Contrary to popular belief, a prosecutor doesn’t have to prove you intended to sell or transport drugs to convict you of trafficking. You can be convicted of trafficking if you have sufficient quantities of a given controlled substance.

A North Carolina drug trafficking lawyer can negotiate on your behalf with the district attorney and fight your case at trial.

Learn more about Drug Trafficking
Drug Trafficking

Federal Crimes

Most people think of multi-state crimes when they imagine felony federal charges. While committing offenses across state lines is one way to face these kinds of charges, you also can be charged if you are accused of knowingly lying to a government agency, possess illegal drugs on federal property, or are accused of possessing or distributing child pornography.

When you’ve been charged with a crime at the federal level, aggressive representation is crucial. Our federal lawyers in North Carolina can help.

Learn more about Federal Crimes
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Client Testimonial

Take a look at what our clients are saying about our services.

I was arrested and charged with DWI as well as ‘Refusal’ to submit to breathalyzer test at a Booze It & Lose It checkpoint in Wake County, NC. Needless to say, it was an extremely stressful situation to deal with as I was also undergoing chemotherapy treatment for terminal cancer at the time. The absolute last thing I needed was another major, life-altering situation. I immediately contacted Benjamin Hiltzheimer & was totally impressed by his straight-forward knowledge, professionalism, empathy and compassion. He treated me with respect and always made time address my questions & concerns, which went a very long way towards alleviating my anxiety so I could focus on the priority of my health. Ben’s integrity and diligence in proving the charges were false resulted in an outcome far beyond my expectations. Both charges were dismissed. I couldn’t be more pleased and want to convey my sincere thanks and gratitude for superb representation. If you’re in need of a lawyer who believes in justice and fights your fight like it was his own, I highly recommend Benjamin Hiltzheimer.

If anyone needs a criminal lawyer Ben is you who you want representing you. I was the victim of a domestic situation in which I found myself in a fight or flight position. This reaction resulted in numerous counts of felonies charges to include Assault with intent. These charges took a huge impact on my life and my career. I am happy to say that Ben was able to accept my case. During the initial consult he gave me his full attention, He listened to my side of the story and he demonstrated a caring genuine concern for the type of charges I had endure. He expressed his passion for justice, and in my case I had been dealt an unfair hand. Ben worked diligently on my case. His professionalism was amazingly outstanding, He always returned calls, he made himself accessible at all times. I was able to communicate with him round the clock ( 7/24) with every concern and questions. Considering the sensitivity of the severe charges I was given, Ben was able to successfully clear me 100% from all charges. Ben demonstrated his knowledge, experience and passion for justice through these results. I am eternally grateful for all the hard work he did on my behalf. I am now able to get back to my life and career. Thank You Ben Hiltzheimer.

After a low key New Year’s dinner, my worst nightmare happened. While driving home I was pulled and arrested for a DWI. Having never been arrested and having only a simple speeding ticket prior, to say the least I was having major concerns and stress over what next. I have never been in the legal system in my entire life. I researched online and contacted several attorneys. Most didn’t answer, some took messages, however Ben was back with me in 15 minutes. I had a lot of questions being the first time and he set up an appointment right away. After that initial interview, I knew I had my attorney. He was very detailed and supportive. He outlined clearly my next steps and spent hours working to get my case resolved. I truly felt he cared about my case. I cannot tell you enough how Ben’s persistence, patience, confidence and hard work saved me. He chipped away on the case until we finally got a break with evidence and errors. I truly believe that your understanding of the DUI trial process, dedication and the way you handled the case saved me from a conviction.

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Get in Touch Today

The right criminal defense attorney can make the difference between acquittal and having a criminal record for life. The Hiltzheimer team takes pride in standing by each and every client. Contact us for a consultation today!

Hiltzheimer Law Office

At Hiltzheimer Law Office, we’re here for you — no matter how stacked the odds may be against you. Through diligent investigation and aggressive representation, we have secured acquittals for clients whose cases seemed hopeless.

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Call or Text: (919) 899-9404