Best Criminal Defense in Chapel Hill, North Carolina

    Areas served: Chapel Hill, NC and surrounding Orange County

    21 local businessesRanked by Lantern Score — a measure of reputation and business quality. We don't accept payment for placement.
    Updated April 16, 2026

    Chapel Hill's criminal defense landscape reflects both the university community and broader Orange County jurisdiction. This directory catalogs attorneys practicing before the Orange County Superior Court and Chapel Hill District Court, where cases range from student-related charges to serious felonies. Providers have been evaluated based on their trial experience, familiarity with local prosecutors and judges, and specialization in specific criminal matters.

    Show businesses best for:
    86
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 21 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh, NC and surrounding counties including Wake, Alamance, Chatham, Franklin, Granville, Harnett, Johnston, Orange, and Vance
    ★★★★★5.0(953 Google reviews)

    Law Office of Douglas E. Portnoy, PLLC is a traffic and criminal defense firm in Raleigh with over 20 years of experience handling thousands of cases. Led by attorney Douglas E. Portnoy, they specialize in traffic violations, DUI/DUI defense, license revocation issues, and speeding tickets across Wake County and surrounding counties (Alamance, Chatham, Franklin, Granville, Harnett, Johnston, Orange, and Vance). The firm also handles bankruptcy, real estate, personal injury, and estate planning, offering free consultations and the convenience of phone-based representation so clients rarely need to appear in court.

    Best for: DUI/DWI Cases
    Ideal clients: Drivers facing traffic violations, DUI/DUI charges, license revocation, speeding tickets, those needing bankruptcy or estate planning assistance
    What sets them apart
    • Over two decades specializing in traffic violations and DUI/DUI defense with thousands of successfully resolved cases.
    • Retain the firm by credit card over the phone for most cases, with attorney appearance in court on your behalf so you avoid court appearances.
    • Handles traffic tickets starting at $70 attorney fees with no scare tactics; offers free consultations for all practice areas.
    Traffic TicketsDUI/DUI DefenseLicense RevocationCriminal DefenseFree Consultation
    Phone(919) 729-9000
    Law Office of Douglas E. Portnoy, PLLC
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    85
    Lantern
    Score
    Wake Forest, NC · 30 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Wake Forest, Chapel Hill, and the greater Triangle area
    ★★★★★5.0(141 Google reviews)

    Dement Askew Johnson & Marshall, LLP is a full-service criminal defense and personal injury law firm based in Wake Forest with over 50 years of combined trial experience. The firm handles criminal charges (DUI/DWI, drug charges, domestic violence, sex crimes, property crimes), personal injury cases (car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, slip and fall, pedestrian accidents), and provides 24/7 emergency availability. Led by experienced trial attorneys including former prosecutors, the firm limits its caseload to provide direct attorney involvement rather than shuffling clients between associates, with a focus on personalized strategy and courtroom results.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesUrgent SituationsDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: People facing criminal charges (DUI, drug charges, felonies), individuals injured in accidents seeking fair settlements, those needing emergency legal representation
    What sets them apart
    • The firm combines five decades of courtroom experience with a team that includes former prosecutors who understand how the criminal justice system works from both sides.
    • Available around the clock for urgent criminal charges and personal injury emergencies, recognizing that legal crises don't wait for business hours.
    • Limits caseload to ensure clients work directly with experienced attorneys throughout the case rather than being shuffled to associates or paralegals.
    Criminal DefensePersonal InjuryDUI/DWI Defense24/7 AvailableTrial Experience
    Phone(919) 823-6699
    J. Alex Marshall, Raleigh Criminal Defense Attorney
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    Chapel Hill, NC
    Serves Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, and surrounding Triangle area (Wake, Durham, Orange, Chatham, and Alamance counties)
    ★★★★★4.9(677 Google reviews)

    The Law Office of Kevin M. Kennedy PLLC provides criminal defense and traffic law representation to clients throughout the Chapel Hill and Triangle area. Attorney Kevin Kennedy specializes in DWI defense, alcohol and drug offenses, traffic violations, speeding tickets, and license revocation cases. The firm offers flat-rate pricing for traffic matters, free consultations, and 24-hour hiring availability, with a focus on straightforward, honest service and achieving dismissals, deferrals, or record expungements when possible.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesUrgent SituationsDrug Charges
    Ideal clients: Drivers facing traffic violations or speeding tickets, individuals charged with DWI or drug offenses, people seeking license reinstatement, those needing record expungement
    What sets them apart
    • The firm offers flat-rate pricing for traffic tickets and speeding violations, allowing clients to know costs upfront and avoid court appearances.
    • Clients can hire the firm 24 hours a day, with free consultations to discuss case options and potential outcomes.
    • Specializes exclusively in criminal defense and traffic law, including DWI defense, drug and alcohol offenses, and license reinstatement.
    Criminal DefenseDWI DefenseTraffic ViolationsDrug OffensesLicense Restoration
    Phone(919) 960-5023
    The Law Office of Kevin M. Kennedy PLLC
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 23 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh and surrounding Wake County, North Carolina
    ★★★★★4.9(655 Google reviews)

    Kissling Law is a criminal defense firm based in Raleigh, NC, serving clients throughout the region with aggressive representation in DUI/DWI cases, drug charges, felonies, misdemeanors, and juvenile defense matters. Founded and led by experienced criminal defense attorneys, the firm focuses on protecting clients' rights and achieving the best possible outcomes in serious criminal charges. They offer free consultations and are available to discuss your case promptly.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesUrgent SituationsDrug ChargesJuvenile CasesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DUI/DWI charges, drug-related criminal charges, felony and misdemeanor defendants, juvenile defendants
    What sets them apart
    • The firm concentrates exclusively on criminal defense matters, bringing deep expertise in DUI/DWI, drug charges, felonies, and misdemeanors rather than spreading resources across general practice areas.
    • Kissling Law offers a free initial consultation so potential clients can discuss their case and understand their options without financial commitment.
    • The firm is available around the clock to assist clients facing urgent criminal charges or arrest situations.
    Criminal DefenseDUI/DWIDrug ChargesRaleigh Attorney24/7 Available
    Phone(919) 346-7927
    Kissling Law
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    Durham, NC · 9 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Durham, NC and surrounding areas
    ★★★★★5.0(53 Google reviews)

    Hiltzheimer Law Office, PLLC is a Durham-based criminal defense firm specializing in DWI/DUI defense with 20+ years of experience. They handle the full spectrum of criminal charges including felonies, misdemeanors, drug offenses, traffic violations, sexual assault, murder, and federal crimes, offering personalized defense strategies and free consultations. The firm is committed exclusively to criminal defense representation, providing compassionate advocacy both in and out of the courtroom for clients facing serious legal challenges.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: DWI defendants, individuals charged with felonies, drug possession cases, people facing serious criminal charges, federal crime defendants
    What sets them apart
    • Extensive background in criminal defense with deep knowledge of complex DWI cases, federal crimes, and serious felony charges including murder defense.
    • The firm exclusively practices criminal defense, ensuring specialized expertise across misdemeanors, felonies, drug charges, and federal matters.
    • Prospective clients can discuss their case at no cost to understand their options and defense strategy from day one.
    Criminal DefenseDWI DefenseDrug ChargesFelony DefenseFree Consultation
    Phone(919) 727-7832
    Hiltzheimer Law Office, PLLC I Durham DWI Lawyer
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 25 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh and Wake County, North Carolina
    ★★★★★4.9(227 Google reviews)

    Saad Law is a criminal defense firm in Raleigh led by Steven Saad, a former Wake County District Attorney with extensive experience prosecuting and defending criminal cases. The firm specializes in DWI defense, drug charges, felony defense, and misdemeanor charges across Wake County. With over 100,000 criminal cases handled and thousands of successful client outcomes, Saad Law combines trial expertise with compassionate client representation for individuals facing serious legal challenges.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DWI charges, drug possession or trafficking charges, felony charges, misdemeanor charges
    What sets them apart
    • Steven Saad previously served as a Wake County District Attorney, supervising misdemeanor and DWI prosecutions. This insider perspective gives clients unique advantage in understanding prosecution strategy.
    • With over 100,000 criminal cases handled and trials ranging from drug possession to first-degree murder, the firm brings deep expertise across all criminal charge types.
    • The firm prioritizes listening and understanding clients during difficult times, combining legal skill with empathetic representation.
    Criminal DefenseDWI DefenseWake CountyFormer ProsecutorDrug Charges
    Phone(919) 263-2500
    Saad Law
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    83
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 25 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh and surrounding Wake County areas
    ★★★★★4.9(149 Google reviews)

    The Law Office of Dewey P. Brinkley provides criminal defense representation in Raleigh, focusing on DUI/DWI cases, drug charges, and other criminal matters. With decades of experience, the firm handles misdemeanor and felony charges at the state and federal level, offering aggressive defense and strategic legal guidance for clients facing serious criminal charges.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DUI charges, drug-related criminal charges, felony accusations, misdemeanor charges
    What sets them apart
    • Specializes in DUI/DWI, drug charges, felony, and misdemeanor defense with a proven track record of case outcomes.
    • Clients work directly with Dewey P. Brinkley rather than being handed off to junior attorneys or paralegals.
    • Develops customized defense strategies for each case, whether through negotiation or trial preparation.
    Criminal DefenseDUI/DWIDrug ChargesFelony DefenseRaleigh
    Phone(919) 832-0307
    Law Office of Dewey P. Brinkley
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    83
    Lantern
    Score
    Durham, NC · 10 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, and surrounding Wake and Orange counties, North Carolina
    ★★★★★4.9(133 Google reviews)

    Minick Law, P.C. is a Durham-based law firm providing comprehensive criminal defense, DUI/DWI representation, and personal injury services. The firm handles serious felonies, misdemeanors, drug charges, and traffic violations, with attorneys experienced in protecting clients' rights throughout North Carolina. They also represent injury victims in civil cases, offering free consultations and aggressive advocacy for clients facing both criminal charges and personal injury claims.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesUrgent SituationsDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DUI/DWI charges, people charged with felonies or misdemeanors, injury victims seeking compensation, drug charge defendants
    What sets them apart
    • Minick Law offers free initial consultations to discuss your case and legal options before committing to representation.
    • The firm is available around the clock, including evenings and weekends, for urgent legal matters and emergencies.
    • Experienced in both serious criminal defense (felonies, DUI, drug charges) and personal injury claims, providing comprehensive legal support.
    Criminal DefenseDUI/DWIPersonal InjuryDurham Attorney24/7 Available
    Phone(919) 237-9520
    Minick Law, P.C.
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    83
    Lantern
    Score
    Durham, NC · 3 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, and surrounding Research Triangle area, North Carolina
    ★★★★★4.9(118 Google reviews)

    Cabrejas Law Firm P.A., founded in 2009 by attorney Alexander Cabrejas, specializes in criminal defense, family law, and personal injury cases (workplace and auto accidents) with a focus on serving the Spanish-speaking and immigrant communities throughout the Research Triangle. All staff members are bilingual Spanish-English, and the firm provides written instructions and legal guidance in Spanish—a rare service in the region. With 15+ years of experience and deep knowledge of immigration law, Cabrejas Law Firm helps protect clients' legal rights and immigration status while handling complex criminal and family matters.

    Ideal clients: Spanish-speaking clients, immigrant communities, individuals facing criminal charges, families needing legal representation, workers injured on the job or in auto accidents
    What sets them apart
    • All attorneys, paralegals, and staff members speak fluent Spanish, and the firm provides written legal instructions in Spanish—ensuring clear communication for Spanish-speaking clients from initial consultation through case resolution.
    • Founded specifically to serve documented and undocumented immigrant communities, the firm has handled thousands of cases and brings deep cultural understanding and specialized immigration law knowledge to protect clients' legal status.
    • The firm combines strong criminal defense advocacy with proactive immigration law guidance to protect clients' presence and rights in the United States, a critical concern for many Latino and immigrant clients.
    Criminal DefenseSpanish-SpeakingImmigration LawFamily LawPersonal Injury
    Phone(919) 886-4030
    Cabrejas Law Firm P.A.
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    83
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 25 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh and surrounding Wake County, NC
    ★★★★★4.9(113 Google reviews)

    The Law Office of Christopher R. Detwiler, PLLC is a criminal defense firm in Raleigh representing clients facing DUI/DWI, felony, misdemeanor, and drug charge charges. Attorney Christopher R. Detwiler provides aggressive defense strategies tailored to each client's circumstances, with extensive experience navigating North Carolina's criminal justice system. The firm offers free consultations and is known for personalized representation and clear communication throughout the legal process.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DUI/DWI charges, Drug charges, Felony and misdemeanor defendants, First-time offenders
    What sets them apart
    • Extensive experience defending DUI and DWI cases with knowledge of field sobriety testing, breathalyzer procedures, and constitutional issues in traffic stops.
    • Offers free consultations to evaluate your case and discuss legal options without financial commitment.
    • Handles drug possession and distribution charges with focus on search and seizure issues and constitutional protections.
    Criminal DefenseDUI/DWIDrug ChargesFelony DefenseRaleigh
    Phone(919) 526-7545
    The Law Office of Christopher R. Detwiler, PLLC
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    83
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 25 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh and throughout North Carolina, with focus on Wake County including Apex, Cary, Fuquay-Varina, Garner, Holly Springs, Knightdale, Morrisville, Rolesville, Wake Forest, Wendell, and Zebulon
    ★★★★★4.9(85 Google reviews)

    Roberts Law Office, PA is a full-service law firm in Raleigh specializing in criminal defense, DUI/DWI representation, healthcare law, and professional licensing defense. Led by Edd K. Roberts III, a board-certified criminal defense specialist and former Assistant District Attorney with over 20 years of trial experience, the firm represents individuals, corporations, municipalities, and professionals across North Carolina. They also feature healthcare attorney Erin Jochum Roberts, who specializes in representing doctors, nurses, and medical providers in compliance, employment agreements, and licensing matters.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals charged with crimes, professionals facing licensing board actions, healthcare providers needing compliance counsel, small businesses and corporations requiring legal representation
    What sets them apart
    • Edd K. Roberts III is a board-certified specialist with over 20 years of trial experience and a background as a former Assistant District Attorney, providing deep knowledge of criminal prosecution and defense strategies.
    • Dedicated healthcare attorney on staff with 12+ years representing doctors, nurses, and medical administrators in compliance, employment agreements, and licensing board matters.
    • Beyond criminal defense, the firm handles corporate compliance, DUI/DWI cases, healthcare law, and professional licensing defense for a comprehensive approach to legal representation.
    Criminal DefenseDUI/DWI DefenseHealthcare LawProfessional Defense
    Phone(919) 782-8115
    Roberts Law Office, PA
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    83
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 25 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh and surrounding Wake County area, North Carolina
    ★★★★★4.9(82 Google reviews)

    Marcilliat & Mills PLLC is a criminal defense law firm in Raleigh representing clients charged with felonies, misdemeanors, DUI/DWI, and drug offenses. The firm focuses on protecting clients' rights and building strong defense strategies tailored to each case's unique circumstances. With deep roots in North Carolina law, they handle cases from arrest through trial and appeal.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing felony charges, DUI/DWI defendants, drug charge defendants, misdemeanor defendants
    What sets them apart
    • Handles felonies, misdemeanors, DUI/DWI, and drug charges with individualized defense strategies for each client.
    • Deep knowledge of NC criminal law and local court procedures to effectively advocate for clients in Wake County and beyond.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseDrug ChargesFelony DefenseRaleigh Attorney
    Phone(919) 838-6643
    Marcilliat & Mills PLLC
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 20 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh, North Carolina and surrounding Wake County areas
    ★★★★★4.9(68 Google reviews)

    Sandman, Finn & Fitzhugh is a criminal defense law firm in Raleigh specializing in DUI/DWI, drug charges, felonies, and misdemeanors. The experienced attorneys focus on protecting clients' rights and building strong defenses tailored to each case's unique circumstances. They offer free consultations and are available to discuss your legal situation.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: DUI/DWI defendants, individuals facing drug charges, felony defendants, misdemeanor defendants
    What sets them apart
    • The firm's attorneys have extensive experience handling DUI, drug charges, felonies, and misdemeanors with proven case outcomes.
    • Sandman, Finn & Fitzhugh offers free initial consultations to discuss your charges and legal options without obligation.
    • The team develops tailored defense strategies for each client's specific situation and charges.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseDrug ChargesFelony DefenseRaleigh
    Phone(919) 845-6688
    Sandman, Finn & Fitzhugh
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 23 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh and throughout North Carolina
    ★★★★★4.8(276 Google reviews)

    Law Offices of J. M. Kotzker, P.C. is a Raleigh-based criminal defense firm serving clients throughout North Carolina. Founded and led by attorney J. M. Kotzker, the firm specializes in defending individuals charged with DUI/DWI, felonies, misdemeanors, and drug-related offenses. Known for aggressive representation and personalized client attention, they offer free consultations and are available around the clock to discuss your case.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesUrgent SituationsDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing criminal charges, DUI/DWI defendants, first-time offenders, those charged with drug crimes
    What sets them apart
    • Available around the clock to respond to your legal needs, whether you need emergency representation or urgent consultation.
    • Offers complimentary initial consultations so you can discuss your case and understand your options without financial commitment.
    • Focuses exclusively on criminal defense matters including DUI/DWI, felonies, misdemeanors, and drug charges with deep North Carolina legal expertise.
    Criminal DefenseDUI/DWI DefenseDrug ChargesFelony DefenseAvailable 24/7
    Phone(919) 439-5104
    Law Offices of J. M. Kotzker, P.C. (NCLAWTALK)
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    Chapel Hill, NC
    Serves Chapel Hill, North Carolina and surrounding communities
    ★★★★★4.8(261 Google reviews)

    Law Office of Matthew Charles Suczynski is a criminal defense firm in Chapel Hill serving clients throughout North Carolina. Matthew Charles Suczynski provides experienced representation for individuals facing criminal charges, with a focus on protecting clients' rights and achieving the best possible outcomes. The firm handles cases ranging from misdemeanors to felonies across state and federal courts.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing criminal charges, DUI defendants, felony cases, misdemeanor defense
    What sets them apart
    • Matthew Charles Suczynski concentrates on criminal defense representation in state and federal courts throughout North Carolina.
    • The firm provides dedicated counsel for individuals facing serious criminal charges and complex legal proceedings.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseFelony DefenseChapel Hill Attorney
    Phone(919) 619-3242
    Law Office of Matthew Charles Suczynski
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 25 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and surrounding Wake County areas
    ★★★★★4.8(241 Google reviews)

    Coolidge Law Firm is a criminal defense firm in Raleigh specializing in DUI, drug charges, felony defense, and misdemeanor cases. Led by experienced attorneys, they provide aggressive representation for clients facing serious criminal charges in North Carolina. The firm offers free consultations and is known for their strategic approach to protecting clients' rights and minimizing legal consequences.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing DUI charges, drug-related offenses, felony charges, and those needing aggressive criminal defense representation in North Carolina
    What sets them apart
    • Coolidge Law Firm offers free initial consultations to discuss your case and defense strategy with no obligation.
    • The firm focuses exclusively on criminal defense matters including DUI, drug charges, felonies, and misdemeanors with in-depth expertise in North Carolina law.
    • Known for personalized representation and strategic case management to achieve the best possible outcomes for each client.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseDrug ChargesFelony DefenseRaleigh
    Phone(919) 239-8448
    Coolidge Law Firm
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    Cary, NC · 18 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Wake County, NC and Federal Eastern District of North Carolina; expungement services statewide
    ★★★★★4.8(232 Google reviews)

    Granados Law Group, PLLC is a Wake County criminal defense firm led by attorney Lindsey Granados, handling traffic violations, misdemeanor and felony charges, DWI/DUI offenses, domestic violence cases, drug charges, sex crimes, and federal charges in the Eastern District of North Carolina. The firm also provides expungement services across all 100 counties in North Carolina and offers jury trial consulting services to other attorneys. With nearly two decades of criminal defense experience plus prior prosecution background, Granados Law Group combines legal expertise with personalized client service to protect clients' rights and minimize consequences.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: People facing criminal or traffic charges in Wake County, DWI/DUI defendants, individuals seeking expungement of past charges statewide, federal crime defendants in Eastern North Carolina
    What sets them apart
    • Serves clients across all 100 counties in North Carolina for record expungement, helping clients achieve fresh starts regardless of location.
    • Attorney Lindsey Granados has nearly two decades as a criminal defense attorney plus prior prosecution experience, with numerous jury and bench trials tried to verdict.
    • Handles everything from traffic tickets to federal drug trafficking charges, domestic violence, sex crimes, and DWI cases with specialized courtroom knowledge.
    Criminal DefenseDWI/DUI AttorneyExpungement ServicesTraffic TicketsBilingual Legal Services
    Phone(919) 650-2851
    Granados Law Group, PLLC
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    Durham, NC · 8 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, Raleigh, and surrounding Triangle area including Wake, Durham, Johnston, Harnett, Person, Orange, Alamance, Chatham, Granville, Vance, and Cumberland counties
    ★★★★★4.9(46 Google reviews)

    Law Office of Brennon Morton, PLLC is a criminal defense firm in Durham, NC led by attorney Brennon Morton, an Eastern North Carolina native dedicated to serving his local community. The firm handles criminal defense, DWI/traffic violations, domestic law matters including divorce and protective orders, and criminal record expungement. Morton provides one-on-one representation rather than passing clients between attorneys, with extensive courtroom experience and availability for 24-hour consultations.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesUrgent SituationsFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Criminal defendants seeking aggressive representation, DWI/traffic violation defendants, individuals seeking divorce or domestic violence protection, people seeking criminal record expungement
    What sets them apart
    • Offers emergency consultations via 24-hour phone line for clients who need immediate legal assistance with criminal charges or urgent domestic matters.
    • Clients work directly with attorney Morton throughout their case rather than being passed between multiple lawyers, ensuring consistent personal attention and understanding of their legal situation.
    • Handles criminal defense, traffic violations, DWI cases, divorce, domestic violence protection orders, and criminal record expungement, offering comprehensive legal support beyond just criminal charges.
    Criminal DefenseDWI DefenseTraffic DefenseFamily LawRecord Expungement
    Phone(919) 917-0807
    Law Office of Brennon Morton, PLLC
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 25 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, and surrounding North Carolina regions
    ★★★★★4.8(162 Google reviews)

    Dement Askew Johnson & Marshall, LLP is a full-service law firm based in Raleigh specializing in criminal defense, including DUI/DWI, felony charges, drug offenses, and misdemeanors. The firm also handles family law, estate planning, and personal injury cases, providing aggressive representation and strategic counsel for clients facing serious legal matters. With experienced attorneys and a strong track record, they serve the greater Triangle area and are available to discuss your case.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Individuals facing criminal charges, families navigating divorce or inheritance matters, those accused of DUI/DWI, estate planning clients, and personal injury claimants
    What sets them apart
    • Beyond criminal defense, the firm handles family law, estate planning, and personal injury cases, making them a comprehensive legal resource for diverse client needs.
    • The firm specializes in serious criminal matters including felonies, DUI/DWI, and drug charges with a strategic approach to case resolution.
    • Located in downtown Raleigh, the firm is conveniently accessible to clients throughout the Triangle region.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseFamily LawEstate PlanningPersonal Injury
    Phone(919) 642-1717
    Dement Askew Johnson & Marshall, LLP
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    81
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 25 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh, NC and surrounding areas
    ★★★★★5.0(108 Google reviews)

    Hiltzheimer Law Office, PLLC is a criminal defense firm in Raleigh with over 20 years of experience defending clients against all types of criminal charges, from misdemeanors to felonies including DWI, drug offenses, assault, larceny, traffic violations, and murder. The firm takes a compassionate yet aggressive approach, offering free consultations and crafting personalized defense strategies tailored to each client's unique circumstances and life situation.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesDrug ChargesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: Anyone facing DWI charges, individuals charged with drug offenses, those accused of felonies, people needing expungement assistance
    What sets them apart
    • The firm brings extensive expertise in defending complex criminal cases at both trial and negotiation stages, with a deep understanding of state and federal law.
    • Handles the full spectrum of criminal charges from minor traffic violations to serious felonies including murder, ensuring clients have representation for virtually any criminal matter.
    • Each client receives a thorough case evaluation and customized defense strategy developed from day one, with attorneys who listen carefully to clients' life situations and circumstances.
    Criminal DefenseDWI DefenseDrug DefenseTraffic ViolationsFelony Defense
    Phone(919) 297-2461
    Hiltzheimer Law Office, PLLC | Raleigh DWI Lawyer
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →
    80
    Lantern
    Score
    Raleigh, NC · 25 mi from Chapel Hill
    Serves Raleigh and surrounding areas in Wake County, North Carolina
    ★★★★★4.7(267 Google reviews)

    Kurtz & Blum, PLLC is a full-service law firm in Raleigh specializing in criminal defense, DUI/DWI cases, and traffic violations. With experienced attorneys handling misdemeanor and felony charges, the firm provides aggressive representation for clients facing serious legal consequences. They offer free consultations and are committed to protecting clients' rights through skilled courtroom advocacy.

    Best for: DUI/DWI CasesFelony Charges
    Ideal clients: DUI/DWI defendants, individuals facing felony or misdemeanor charges, traffic violation defendants, anyone needing criminal defense representation
    What sets them apart
    • Experienced in defending against driving under the influence charges with knowledge of breathalyzer procedures, field sobriety tests, and constitutional violations.
    • Offers free consultations so potential clients can discuss their case and understand their legal options without financial commitment.
    • Handles misdemeanor and felony charges with courtroom experience in Wake County and surrounding jurisdictions.
    Criminal DefenseDUI DefenseTraffic ViolationsFelony CasesFree Consultation
    Phone(919) 832-7700
    Kurtz & Blum, PLLC
    Updated 4/16/26Learn More →

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who is the top-ranked criminal defense attorney in Chapel Hill?

    The Law Office of Douglas E. Portnoy, PLLC is the top-ranked criminal defense firm in the Chapel Hill area with a Lantern Score of 85.76/100 and a 5-star rating based on 953 reviews. With over 20 years of experience handling thousands of cases, Attorney Portnoy specializes in traffic violations, DUI/DWI charges, license revocation, and speeding tickets.

    Which criminal defense attorney should I contact for a DWI charge in Chapel Hill?

    The Law Office of Kevin M. Kennedy PLLC (Lantern Score: 83.97/100, 4.9★) is highly specialized in DWI defense and serves the Chapel Hill and Triangle area directly. They also handle drug offenses and license reinstatement, making them well-suited for DWI-specific cases in your area.

    Are there criminal defense lawyers in Chapel Hill open on weekends?

    No criminal defense firms in the Chapel Hill area are open on weekends. All 21 listed firms operate during standard business hours only, so you'll need to contact them during weekday office hours for representation.

    What options exist for Spanish-speaking clients needing criminal defense in Chapel Hill?

    Cabrejas Law Firm P.A. (Lantern Score: 83.15/100, 4.9★) specifically serves Spanish-speaking clients and immigrant communities while providing comprehensive criminal defense representation. Founded in 2009, the firm handles all types of criminal charges and has extensive experience with bilingual clients.

    Who should I contact for felony defense in Chapel Hill?

    J. Alex Marshall with Dement Askew Johnson & Marshall, LLP (Lantern Score: 85.00/100, 5★) handles felony charges and offers emergency legal representation with over 50 years of combined trial experience. Alternatively, Hiltzheimer Law Office, PLLC (Lantern Score: 83.64/100, 5★) specializes in serious criminal charges including felonies.

    Which criminal defense firm in Chapel Hill can help with record expungement?

    The Law Office of Kevin M. Kennedy PLLC (Lantern Score: 83.97/100, 4.9★) specializes in record expungement and serves the Chapel Hill area. They can help you clear eligible criminal charges from your record while also providing other criminal defense services.

    This directory of criminal defense local businesses serving Chapel Hill, NC is maintained by Lantern. Rankings are determined by the Lantern Score — not advertising or payment for placement. Learn how it works. Last updated April 16, 2026. To claim or update a listing, contact us.