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Trusted Defense From Criminal Charges

If you face criminal charges, you require a capable attorney who can defend your rights and protect your future. At Edwards & Trenkle, PLLC, our attorneys have more than 70 years of combined experience and can provide the trusted representation you need during this difficult time.

Both Mark Edwards and Robert Trenkle are board-certified in state and federal criminal law. Experts in criminal defense, they regularly teach other attorneys about this field of law in continuing legal education (CLE) classes. They have the firm knowledge base to thoroughly evaluate your case’s complex evidence and develop a strong defense. We are results-driven and aim to secure the best outcome given your situation. We strive to protect your reputation, career, financial security and freedom.

Board-Certified Specialists Defending Assault And Battery Charges

At Edwards & Trenkle, PLLC, we understand how overwhelming it can feel to face assault and battery charges. This is a serious crime that carries a harmful stigma that can negatively impact your job, family and future. It is easy to feel hopeless or misunderstood when charges are brought against you.

We encourage you not to give up hope when you are up against criminal charges. With over 60 years of combined experience defending state and federal cases, our attorneys know your options to develop a strong defense. We will listen to your story free of judgment and protect your best interests.

Possible Penalties For Assault And Battery Convictions

North Carolina law considers charges of assault or battery to be the same offense. These terms cover an array of activities, ranging from:

⦁ Inducing fear of harm in someone else

⦁ Causing serious bodily injury

⦁ “Simple” assaults, such as hitting, kicking or punching

⦁ Harm with a deadly weapon, such as a knife or gun

⦁ Acting with the intent to kill

⦁ Any attack on a female

⦁ Sex crimes involving an assault

Assault and battery-related actions can be charged as a serious misdemeanor. However, if a deadly weapon or intent to kill is determined, then it may be a felony charge. Penalties range from jail or prison time, life without parole, fines, probation and restrictions on your freedoms.

Self Defense Is A Strong Defense

Many assault and battery charges stem from the need to defend yourself from someone who is acting erratically, intimidating you or threatening your family.

We serve as program attorneys for U.S. Law Shield, a group that advocates for your legal right to defend yourself. Our team values your ability to defend your and your family’s health. We will form a thorough defense strategy that demonstrates your need for self-defense to prevent baseless charges from harming your future.

Here For You When You Face Serious Drug Charges

Being in the wrong place at the wrong time, or simply making a mistake, can result in serious drug charges. From addictions to drug trafficking to feeling like you are in too deep to escape – we understand how these situations can develop. Our attorneys at Edwards & Trenkle, PLLC, believe that everyone deserves to have their story heard and a strong advocate on their side.

We can represent clients facing charges involving any controlled substance, including:

Manufacturing or creating a drug, or having the intent to do so
Selling, delivering or possessing any drug
Trafficking a drug across the state or country borders
The intent of delivering or selling a substance
Buying or possessing any chemical used to create a controlled substance
The intent of taking actions that will create or distribute drugs to minors
Abusing or distributing prescription drugs
Driving under the influence of any drug

Marijuana Use In North Carolina

Our attorneys are lifetime members of nonprofit group the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML). We work to advocate for legalization and to change the public opinion of marijuana use. Though North Carolina does not allow for the use of medical marijuana, we know how to defend against marijuana charges as we promote more lenient laws.

Over 70 Years Of Criminal Defense Experience

Our team has the experience to defend you from any state or federal drug charges, including those involving popular drugs such as marijuana, heroin, powder cocaine, prescription drugs and club drugs. We have over 70 years of combined criminal law experience successfully assisting clients with everything from felonies to misdemeanors.

Do Not Wait After A Drug Charge – Contact Us Today

We want to hear your story. We do not judge and provide a safe, confidential space to discuss your situation. Our attorneys will ensure you understand all your options and offer sound counsel that protects your best interests.

With multiple law offices in North Carolina, we represent clients throughout the Research Triangle region, including Raleigh, Chapel Hill and the surrounding areas. Call our Durham office at 919-695-7338 or our Pittsboro office at 919-545-5626. You may also reach out through our online form to set up a consultation with an attorney. We can help you determine the best path forward after a drug charge or conviction.

DWI Charges Can Happen To Anyone

A driving while intoxicated conviction can significantly impact your day-to-day life. You may not have even been over the legal limit, but you could still face charges because of improper testing. No matter the situation, we have the experience to review your case, identify police testing and procedural errors and formulate a defense that protects your future.

At Edwards & Trenkle, PLLC, attorneys Mark Edwards and Robert Trenkle are board certified in state and federal criminal law. Simply put, we are experts in defending clients against criminal offenses. Our trusted reputation in the community stems from over 60 years of combined legal experience representing North Carolina residents.

Repercussions For Driving While Intoxicated

You may face many serious repercussions for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If convicted, you could face jail time, fines, loss of driving privileges, probation or other penalties that impact your fundamental freedoms. You could even lose your children or visitation rights, lose your job, prevent future career opportunities or threaten your financial security.

When you partner with us, our team will always aim for a case dismissal or a reduction of potential penalties. Rest assured that we will fight for your rights and create a strong strategy for your defense. If you were wrongly convicted, we can also help you pursue an expungement.

How Can An Attorney Can Help Your Case?

You may think that it will be easy to talk your way out of drunk driving charges. Unfortunately, the legal system is complex, and you may end up causing more harm than good. We advise clients to remain silent and to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible to offer sound legal counsel.

Call our Durham office at 919-695-7338 or our Pittsboro office at 919-545-5626. Clients seeking representation or advice can also schedule an appointment with our online form. We have the skills and knowledge base to protect your best interests as you move forward.

Protecting You From The Stigma Surrounding Sex Offenses

Facing any allegations of a sex crime can instantly impact your life. The public and your friends and family are often judgmental of sex offenses, and whether you are proven innocent or guilty, the stigma can follow you the rest of your life.

At Edwards & Trenkle, PLLC, we have been defending North Carolina residents from sexual offense charges since 1990. Our attorneys know the ins and outs of the law, and we understand that no situation is exactly as it may seem. When you work with us, we will listen to your story without judgment. Our goal is to provide a strategic plan for your case that protects your rights and best interests.

We can skillfully represent your case involving:

Creation or possession of child pornography
Charges relating to a child or minor
Sexual assault, rape or statutory rape
Indecent exposure, such as texting lewd photos
Providing or paying for any form of prostitution

Defense From Crimes Against Minors

Any sexual offense involving a child or minor carries especially harsh penalties. This can include actions where a minor was a willing participant. We have seen an uptick in convictions involving minors who willingly sending inappropriate photos to others or have their own lewd photos on their personal electronic devices.

Additionally, a child’s comments may be misunderstood by a parent or other adult. An innocent encounter may be incorrectly portrayed, resulting in unjust charges.
Charges involving a minor must be carefully navigated. The potential penalties can dictate where you live, where you can work and contact with your children and can harm your reputation.

Avoiding The North Carolina Sex Offense Registry

You want to avoid being added to North Carolina’s sex offense registry. Penalties for sex crimes can include a lifetime listing on the registry, while other penalties may register you for a set number of years. We work hard to keep our clients off the registry from the start. We understand the stigma and repercussions clients can face from their peers and neighbors once they are listed.

If you are already listed on the registry, we can work toward your removal. Our attorneys work with post-conviction relief cases, expungements and sex crime-specific reputation management.

Stay Silent. Ask Us For The Help You Need.

If you face any sex crime allegations or charges, do not speak to the police or anyone else about the case. While you may be trying to clear your name, you may actually make matters worse. Use your right to remain silent and call our Durham office at 919-695-7338 or our Pittsboro office at 919-545-5626. You can also schedule an appointment online.

Expungements: Having A Clear Record Is Possible

Having any criminal record can significantly hinder your future. Finding a job, being approved for housing and even time spent with your family and friends can be negatively impacted.

Our board-certified criminal law attorneys have seen the negative affects that a criminal record can have on an individual’s life. At Edwards & Trenkle, PLLC, we strive to help people clear their record so they can have a fresh start moving forward. We are specialists in our field and can defend you from state or federal charges in court.

Defending Your Rights Since 1990

We know the nuances of North Carolina laws and have the experience to zealously defend against a variety of complex crimes. If you have already been convicted, we offer post-conviction relief, record sealing and expungement services.

Recent changes to the law have reduced the time it takes for your record to be expunged. This is available for nonviolent misdemeanors and some felony convictions. In many cases, the wait time may go from 15 years to just five or 10.

Our team can assist with:

⦁ Creating and filing the expungement petition

⦁ Expungement for serious crimes such as assault and theft

⦁ Guiding you through the statutes, process, nuances and complex laws

⦁ Attending court with you for hearings

⦁ Defending denials of expungement

Your Advocates From Start To Finish

At Edwards & Trenkle, PLLC, we are on your side. Our team serves as aggressive advocates for your rights and your best interests – now and in the future. We will help you through the expungement process and help you determine how to put your best foot forward.

For experienced help from leaders in the criminal law field, reach out online today. Prospective clients may also call our Durham office at 919-695-7338 or our Pittsboro office at 919-545-5626 to set up a consultation.

Penalties For Theft Charges Can Be Life-Altering

There are many types of theft crimes, and North Carolina takes all these charges very seriously. Even first-time offenders can face prison time and huge fines. At Edwards & Trenkle, PLLC, we have over 60 years of combined experience defending charges of this nature. No matter how you found yourself in a situation resulting in theft charges, there is hope for your case.

We represent theft and larceny cases involving:

⦁ Unlawful taking of another’s property

⦁ Theft of a vehicle, car parts or gasoline

⦁ Theft committed by an employee

⦁ Receiving or holding on to stolen items

⦁ Identity theft

⦁ Breaking and entering, or burglary charges

⦁ Robbery with a weapon or explosive

Felony Charges From Certain Theft Cases

Under North Carolina law, certain situations can result in a felony charge. This occurs when:

⦁ The stolen property is worth over $1,000

⦁ Theft involves motor fuel

⦁ You are an employee stealing from your company

⦁ The case involves a burglary

⦁ You steal a gun or explosive

Our team of attorneys can represent larceny misdemeanors and felonies in state or federal court. Additionally, both attorneys are board-certified specialists in state and federal criminal law. Serving as leaders in the field of criminal law, they are highly experienced experts with a strong track record of success.

Call For Experienced Help With Your Case Strategy

Call our Durham office at 919-688-9555 or our Pittsboro office at 919-545-5626 to speak with an attorney who will listen strategically to your story, free of judgment. You may also request an appointment using our quick online contact form.

Fraudulent Acts Can Lead To Felony Charges

It can be easier than you think to fall into fraud charges. Whether you are aware of them or not, even being remotely involved in fraudulent activities is taken seriously by North Carolina’s criminal and civil courts. If you face white collar crime or other fraud charges, our expert criminal defense lawyers can provide the strong support you need.

At Edwards & Trenkle, PLLC, we carefully examine the evidence against you to create a strong case strategy. Our attorneys have been defending criminal charges since 1990. We understand how the prosecution thinks, and we know how to prepare you for a jury trial. We take your fraud case very seriously – because we know the prosecutor will.

When Your Case Is Considered A Felony

North Carolina traditionally carries harsh sentences for any fraudulent acts that involve fines of more than $1,000. If there is sufficient evidence, you could face felony charges. The penalties may include paying the money back with fines, restitution, investigations into all areas of your finances and life, jail time or prison.

Our accomplished lawyers can help if you face fraud charges involving:

⦁ Claiming bankruptcy or owing on post-bankruptcy payments

⦁ Mistakes with your taxes or tax evasion

⦁ Identity theft or ATM fraud

⦁ Exaggerated insurance claims

⦁ Mail, email, phishing, spam or phone scams

⦁ Credit or debit cards, or securities

⦁ Scams that cross interstate borders

⦁ “Pyramid” schemes or product sales

⦁ Health care providers or prescriptions

⦁ Employees or your employer

Finding The Best Course Of Action

We have over 60 years of combined experience defending clients from fraud allegations and charges. We work to mitigate the damages to your reputation and the penalties on the table. From organizing plea deals to negotiating settlements or taking your case in front of a jury, we will explain all your options.

For expert help from our board-certified criminal law attorneys, please fill out our online form or call the office location closest to you. You may reach our Durham office at 919-695-7338 or our Pittsboro office at 919-545-5626.

We Protect Your Rights To Self-Defense And Firearms

At Edwards & Trenkle, PLLC, we provide support and guidance for those who exercise their right to bear arms. As program attorneys for U.S. Law Shield, one of the nation’s leading programs for self-defense advocacy, we provide comprehensive legal guidance for those who act to protect themselves and their loved ones.

We also are strong advocates for those facing other firearms charges. No matter the charge, our skilled criminal defense attorneys can help you defend your rights.

Does North Carolina Have “Stand Your Ground” Laws?

North Carolina follows a self-defense regulation known as the “castle doctrine.” Under these rules, your home, car and workplace are considered your “castle,” and you are not required to retreat from an intruder. It is lawful to use deadly force in self-defense in all three of these locations.

In other situations, you can use “reasonable force” when threatened. This means that you reasonably believe that force is necessary to protect yourself from an attack. Deadly force is only justified if you think it is essential to keep yourself or someone else from being killed or suffering serious harm.

Understanding North Carolina’s Regulation Of Firearms

State law requires anyone who carries a concealed weapon to have a permit. Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is punishable by up to six months in jail. Some residents, including anyone with a felony record or who is subject to a restraining order for domestic violence, are prohibited from possessing firearms at all.

Even if you have a permit to conceal and carry, it is still illegal under state law to bring a firearm into any location where alcohol is consumed or sold – as well as any place that charges for admissions, such as a sporting event or concert. If convicted, you could face up to a year in jail.

Most firearm offenses are felonies, carrying severe penalties that place your freedom at risk. If you face a weapons charge, secure a strong advocate as soon as possible.

Contact Us To Start Building Your Defense

If you face criminal charges, whether a misdemeanor or a felony, you cannot leave your future to chance. We will remain by your side from your initial consultation through to your case’s conclusion.

Call Edwards & Trenkle, PLLC to schedule a consultation at either of our convenient office locations. You can reach our Pittsboro office at 919-545-5626, or our Durham office at 919-688-9555. You may also contact our experienced lawyers online.