If you have been charged with a felony in North Carolina, every minute matters. Felonies carry severe, long-lasting consequences—even for the least serious Class I charges—and navigating the criminal justice system is never a do-it-yourself project.
At Hancock Law Firm, we know that a felony accusation can threaten your freedom, reputation, career, civil rights, and personal relationships. Whether you live in Beaufort, Morehead City, or anywhere in Carteret County, calling our office may be the most important step you take. Your initial consultation is always free and completely confidential.
Why Felony Charges Are So Serious in North Carolina
North Carolina categorizes felonies into classes, with Class A being the most severe and Class I being the least severe. Even a Class I felony can impact your ability to vote, own a firearm, find employment, and secure housing. The penalties vary widely, but all felony convictions become part of your permanent criminal record unless successfully expunged.
Consequences of a felony conviction can include:
- Loss of civil rights (voting, firearm ownership)
- Prison sentences ranging from months to life in prison—or even the death penalty for Class A felonies
- Damaged reputation and strained relationships
- Barriers to employment, education, and housing
- Long-term probation or supervised release
Felony Cases Hancock Law Firm Defends
Attorney Joel Hancock is an experienced felony defense lawyer who has fought—and won—cases across a broad spectrum of charges, including:
- Felony Assaults: Assault involving deadly weapons, serious injury, intent to kill, or strangulation.
- Drug Trafficking: Manufacturing, transporting, possessing, selling, or distributing illegal substances above threshold amounts.
- Sex Offenses: Non-consensual acts including touching, penetration, and offenses involving minors.
- Gun Crimes: Concealed carry without a permit or possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
- Burglary: Unlawfully entering a dwelling, structure, or vehicle with criminal intent.
- Arson: Malicious burning of another person’s property or structure.
- Homicide & Murder: From premeditated murder to felony murder, where a death occurs during the commission of another felony.
- Robbery: Taking property by force or threat of force.
Key Felony Laws in North Carolina
Habitual Felon Law (“Three Strikes” Rule)
If you have three prior felony convictions in North Carolina, a new felony charge may result in a separate “Habitual Felon” indictment. This can increase penalties significantly—often raising your sentencing class by four levels.
G.S. 90-96 Conditional Discharge for First-Time Drug Offenders
Certain first-time, low-level drug offenses may be eligible for probation under G.S. 90-96. If probation terms—such as completing treatment programs or meeting sobriety requirements—are successfully completed, the charges can be dismissed. If violated, sentencing can proceed as if no deal was offered.
Understanding Sentencing in North Carolina Felony Cases
Felony sentencing depends on:
- Class of offense
- Prior criminal record
- Aggravating or mitigating factors
Sentences fall into three ranges:
- Presumptive Range: Standard sentencing for the offense.
- Aggravated Range: Harsher penalties for especially cruel conduct or vulnerable victims.
- Mitigated Range: Reduced penalties when circumstances make the offense more understandable.
Some lower-level felonies may result in probation or community service instead of active prison time. Still, Class A felonies carry mandatory life in prison without parole or the death penalty.
North Carolina also has no statute of limitations for felony offenses, meaning you can be charged years—even decades—after the alleged crime.
Why You Need Hancock Law Firm Immediately
Facing a felony charge without experienced legal representation puts you at a major disadvantage. At Hancock Law Firm, we:
- Investigate the facts and evidence thoroughly
- Interview witnesses and examine police procedures
- Challenge improper evidence collection
- Seek dismissal, acquittal, or reduced charges
- Negotiate aggressively for the most favorable plea deal if trial isn’t the best option
Joel Hancock is known for his meticulous preparation, aggressive courtroom defense, and commitment to protecting clients’ rights at every stage.
Protect Your Freedom and Future Now
A felony conviction can change the course of your life forever—but you have the right to fight back. Whether you’re under investigation or already facing charges, Hancock Law Firm is ready to defend you.
Contact Hancock Law Firm today for your free, confidential consultation. We defend clients throughout Carteret County and across North Carolina. Don’t wait—every moment counts when your future is on the line.