If you are accused of assaulting another person or a more serious violent crime, the best way to protect yourself is to call violent crimes defense attorney Thom Goolsby. These are intimidating charges, but it does not mean you will be convicted. You not required and in most cases should not plead guilty. Instead, contact a criminal defense lawyer who will fight for you and present a strong defense, both in and out of court.
These are fact-driven cases, typically handled by veteran prosecutors and investigators. By working with a skilled lawyer early in your case, you can control what you say to the police, limit the evidence used against you, and possibly negotiate for a favorable outcome or be in the best position for trial.
With nearly 30 years of experience, a reputation for aggressively defending his clients, and a history of success at trial, Attorney Thom Goolsby can handle any crime involving violence. Let us examine the evidence and do everything possible to have the charges reduced, dismissed or prove your innocence.
All you have to do is pick up the phone. Call (910) 763–3339, send a text, or contact us online 24/7 to set up a free consultation.
The Stakes Couldn't Be Higher in Violent Crime Cases
We Defend Against All Violent Crimes
From incarceration to probation, along with a permanent mark on your criminal record, any violent conviction will have a detrimental impact on your life. Attorney Thom Goolsby is highly knowledgeable regarding North Carolina violent crime law. He knows what you are up against, how to deal with these cases, and what it takes to successfully defend against them. Some of the most common violent offenses we see regularly are:
Simple Assault (NCGS §14-33(a))
In North Carolina, battery differs from an assault. An assault consists of threatening or attempting to harm someone. A battery occurs when you intentionally touch another person without consent. There is also a charge called an affray, which is an altercation between you and at least one other person, resulting in a physical fight. Simple assault, simple assault and battery or participating in an affray are all Class 2 misdemeanors.
Aggravated Assault (NCGS §14-33(C))
You face a Class A1 misdemeanor if, during an assault, assault or battery or affray, you cause someone serious injury, use a deadly weapon, assault a child under 12, assault a woman if you are a man over 18 (Assault on a Female), assault a state employee, assault a school employee or volunteer or assault a public transit worker.
Felony Assault (NCGS §14-32 & 32.4)
It is a Class C felony if you assault another person with a deadly weapon, such as a firearm, with intent to kill, and you inflict serious injury. If you use a deadly weapon and inflict serious injury without the intent to kill or you have the intent to kill yet do not inflict serious injury, it is a Class E felony. If you assault someone and cause physical injury by strangulation, it is a Class H felony.
Domestic Violence (NCGS §50B-1)
In North Carolina, domestic abuse consists of causing or trying to cause bodily injury to a person with whom you have a personal relationship, such as a current or ex-spouse, current or former romantic partner, a household member, the other parent of your child or family members. If you are accused of domestic abuse, you will face charges for the underlying crime, as well as possibly having orders of protection filed against you.
Murder (NCGS 14-17)
Murder is causing another person’s death through premeditated action or the commission of a felony. This is first-degree murder, a Class A felony. First-degree murder also includes causing the death of a person with whom you had a personal relationship through malicious conduct or against whom you had a previous conviction for domestic violence. Any other form of homicide is considered second-degree murder and is charged as a Class B1 or B2 felony, depending on the circumstances.
Manslaughter (NCGS 14-18)
If you are accused of causing someone’s death without malice or intent and not during the commission of a felony, you can be charged with manslaughter. Voluntary manslaughter is a Class D felony. Involuntary manslaughter, which is a death resulting from reckless behavior, is a Class F felony.
