📧 jamesg@thegilchristlawfirm.com | 📞 980-219-8884 | 📠 980-219-8988 | 📍 5244 N. Sharon Amity Rd., Suite A, Charlotte, NC 28215
Criminal Defence Lawyer in Charlotte, NC
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Experienced Criminal Defence in Charlotte
If you are facing criminal charges in Charlotte, NC, our defence team provides strong representation tailored to your case. From DUI and traffic violations to serious felonies, we are committed to protecting your rights in Mecklenburg County courts.
Why Choose The Gilchrist Law Firm?
- Personalized defence strategies
- In-depth knowledge of Charlotte courts
- Strong trial and negotiation experience

Skilled Criminal Defense Advice
Being charged with a crime can feel overwhelming. At The Gilchrist Law Firm, we take the time to understand your situation and explain your options clearly. From the first consultation, our goal is to guide you toward the best legal strategy for protecting your future.
Experienced Defense Lawyer
Since 2016, our firm has defended clients across Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. With experience in local courts and a strong record in criminal defense, we fight tirelessly to safeguard your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Transparent Fees
We believe quality legal representation should be accessible. Our firm provides competitive and transparent rates, with flexible options to ensure you get the support you need without hidden costs.
Thorough Case Preparation
Every case deserves careful attention. We review your documents, evidence, and personal story in detail to build the strongest possible representation on your behalf.
Dedicated Criminal Defence Representation
Our firm is focused on protecting clients who are facing criminal charges. We combine legal skill with a strategic approach to ensure that every case is handled with care and precision. From the first consultation to the final outcome, we stand by our clients, fighting to safeguard their rights, their reputation, and their future.
Strategic Defence Approach
At our firm, we take a strong and strategic approach to defense. Every case is unique, so we work closely with our clients to understand the full context and build a defense that protects their rights and interests.
Evidence Review and Preparation
Our team carefully reviews evidence, challenges weak or unsupported claims, and ensures that procedures are followed properly at every stage. We believe that preparation and persistence are the foundation of an effective defense.
Protecting You and Your Future
Whether you are facing individual charges or complex disputes, we focus on clarity, precision, and results. Our commitment is to safeguard your future by presenting the strongest possible case on your behalf.

Need strong legal defense?
We are here to protect your rights and guide you every step of the way
Choose a Charlotte Criminal Defense Lawyer Who Knows the Local Courts
At The Gilchrist Law Firm, we do not just know the law. We know Charlotte and Mecklenburg County courts inside and out. Our experience with local judges, prosecutors, and court staff helps us guide your case strategically from start to finish.
Traffic Tickets & License Restoration
Even a simple speeding ticket can raise your insurance rates and put your license at risk. At The Gilchrist Law Firm, we handle traffic violations, license restoration, and revoked license cases so you do not have to waste time in court. We fight to minimize or dismiss charges whenever possible.
DWI & DUI Defense
Facing a DWI in Charlotte can feel overwhelming. A conviction could mean license suspension, heavy fines, or even jail time. Our team has extensive experience defending clients against DWI charges in Mecklenburg County and surrounding areas. We work to protect your driving privileges and your future.
Domestic Violence & Assault Defense
Domestic violence and assault charges are taken seriously in North Carolina and can have life-long consequences. We know how to present your side of the story and protect your rights in front of judges and juries. Our priority is building the strongest defense for your case.
Our Criminal Defense Services in Charlotte
At The Gilchrist Law Firm, we provide experienced and strategic criminal defense for individuals throughout Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. Whether you are facing misdemeanor charges, serious felonies, or traffic-related offenses, our goal is to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s case, and pursue the best possible outcome.
We understand how stressful and overwhelming the criminal justice system can be. That is why we guide our clients through every step, from arrest to resolution, with clear communication and a defense strategy tailored to their situation.
ISRAEL Velasquez2025-09-03Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. El abogado y sus asistentes,hacen un buen trabajo,te tratan con amabilidad,lo recomiendo.Gracias por la ayuda que me brindaron,Bendiciones para el abogado y todo su equipo de trabajo. Marian Isabel Valle2025-09-03Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Siempre dispuestos ayudar Gertrudis Paredes2025-08-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Agradecida por la ayuda gracias a Dios y por segundo al abogado James, tambien gracias a Maria y Jackie por la atencion y la ayuda, son muy agradables, le recomiendo sus servicios Sidney Zapata2025-08-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thank you to James and Edith for helping my mom and I on our immigration residency process. We got our green cards today and couldn’t be any happier with the service and results! Gracias a James y Edith por ayudarnos a mi mamá y a mí en nuestro proceso de inmigración para residencia. Hoy obteníamos nuestras tarjetas verdes y estamos absolutamente felices y satisfechos con los resultados! Jennyfer Lozada2025-07-31Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. El abogado Gilchrist es un excelente en su labor de abogado, llevó el caso de mi papá que fue una visa U , con éxito total . De ahí nos ayudó a mi mamá y mis hermanas a obtener la residencia. Y ahora estoy trabajando juntos nuevamente para poder peticionar el caso de mi esposo para que obtenga su papeles en orden . Lo recomiendo 100 porciento su precios son muy cómodos y su trabajo es excelente. Tenemos muchos tiempo llevándole todas nuestras problemas tanto de inmigración como tickets de tránsito. Cary Dohman2025-05-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a fellow criminal defense attorney, I'm impressed with his desire to continuously help his clients, while being at the forefront of the legal community in his knowledge and understanding of the law. I’d highly recommend the Gilchrist Law Firm to people I know in need of a lawyer. Rachel Yates2025-05-21Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a fellow lawyer, I am very selective in my referrals. The owner of this firm is excellent: he is thoughtful and careful and cares about his clients. I would recommend to anyone in need of the firm’s expertise! Maria Villalobos2025-05-12Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Recomiendo 100% al abogado James gilchrist gracias a él obtuvimos la residencia mi esposo y yo en un proceso de visa u...y especialmente mi agradecimiento para raquel cruz que siempre fue muy amable y siempre nos ayudó con nuestras dudas ..y sus recepcionistas también muy amables....muy agradecida con todos los de gilchrist law firm...dios los bendiga siempre..🙏😘 miguel reyes2025-05-12Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. muy contentos y felices que gracias al abogado james mi esposa y yo obtuvimos la residencia..recomendamos al 100% al abogado gilchrist y tambien agradecidos con raquel cruz que estuvo siempre respondiendo nuestras dudas muy amable siempre y las recepcionistas muy amables y serviciales ...dios los bendiga...Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
Why Choose Us
“Every client deserves more than just legal representation. They deserve an advocate who listens, prepares, and fights for them at every step. At The Gilchrist Law Firm, my commitment is to treat each case with the same urgency and dedication as if it were my own future on the line.”
– James Gilchrist, Founder & Lead Attorney

Frequently Asked Questions
Stay calm, do not resist, and request to speak with an attorney immediately. Avoid making statements to law enforcement without legal counsel present.
It depends on the charges, your prior record, and the specifics of your case. Our firm works to reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives, or fight for a dismissal where possible.
Yes. Even misdemeanors can affect your record, employment, and future opportunities. An attorney helps protect your rights and minimize long-term consequences.
We carefully review evidence, challenge weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and build a strategy tailored to your circumstances. Our focus is on protecting your rights and achieving the best outcome.
Not always. In some cases, we can appear on your behalf to save you time and reduce stress. We will guide you on when your presence is required.
Some convictions may be eligible for expungement under North Carolina law. We can review your case and determine if you qualify.
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Open Hours
Monday-Friday 9 am - 5pm