Domestic Violence Charges in North Carolina
Being charged with domestic violence in North Carolina can instantly upend your life. Allegations often lead to arrest, protective orders, loss of child custody rights, and long-term restrictions—even before a conviction. If you’ve been accused, you need a criminal defense attorney with courtroom command and deep knowledge of how these cases unfold.
What Constitutes Domestic Violence?
North Carolina law defines domestic violence broadly. It applies to acts of physical harm, attempted harm, or threats made against someone with whom the accused has a personal relationship. This includes:
- Current or former spouses
- Individuals in dating relationships
- Parents and children
- Persons who share a household
The charges may include assault, stalking, harassment, or threats, and can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies depending on the circumstances and any alleged injuries or weapons used.
Protective Orders and Immediate Impact
A domestic violence allegation often triggers a 50B protective order, commonly referred to as a restraining order. These orders can:
- Force the accused to leave their home
- Restrict contact with children or family members
- Prohibit firearm possession
- Create a paper trail that affects employment and housing
Many defendants are shocked to find that a 911 call or heated argument can escalate into legal action that affects every corner of their life. These cases are emotionally charged—and require a focused, calm, and experienced legal response.
State vs. Federal Jurisdiction
Most domestic violence cases are prosecuted in North Carolina state courts, but federal charges may arise if the alleged conduct crossed state lines, involved firearm violations, or took place on federal land. As Amburgey Law continues to expand into federal criminal defense, Thomas Amburgey’s state-level experience provides a solid foundation for defending serious domestic violence charges in any court.
Key Client Concerns
- Can I go home or see my children?
- Will this affect my job?
- What happens if the alleged victim wants to drop the charges?
- How will this impact my criminal record?
Thomas Amburgey understands these concerns because he’s seen both sides—as a former prosecutor and now a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist. He knows how to challenge weak evidence, advocate against unjust protective orders, and help clients avoid life-altering convictions.
What You Should Know
- Domestic violence charges may lead to immediate protective orders
- Allegations can trigger criminal charges, even without physical harm
- State and federal consequences are possible
- Early legal action can mitigate damage to your rights and reputation
Protect Your Freedom, Your Family, and Your Future
In domestic violence cases, the stakes are more than legal—they’re deeply personal. With decades of courtroom experience and a reputation built on results, Thomas Amburgey is the ally you need when your future is on the line.
Call now to schedule a confidential consultation.
Recent Articles
Felony Crimes and Misdemeanors
Thomas Amburgey is a criminal defense lawyer that represents people in a wide and inclusive range of felony and misdemeanor accusations and charges. If you have been accused of a crime, no matter how small you believe it to be, call Thomas today and begin protecting your rights under the Constitution.
Homicide & Capital Crime
Murder is one of the most serious crimes to be accused of and, if convicted, is accompanied by a life sentence, possibly without parole. Some examples of murder charges are:
- Voluntary Manslaughter
- Involuntary Manslaughter
- Vehicular Homicide
- Second-Degree Murder
- First-Degree Murder
Weapons Offenses
Thomas Amburgey’s extensive trial experience as a prosecutor allows him to intimately understand the weaknesses of the state’s case, where their positions lie, and how to best communicate with the DA. He knows the courtroom. Through more than seventy jury trials, he’s gained an innate understanding of what is most important for putting you in the position to win.
- felon in possession of a firearm
- violation of conceal/carry laws
- assault with a deadly weapon
- illegal sale of weapons
DUI / DWI
North Carolina law enforcement does not take DWI/DUI matters lightly and has some of the most stringent sentencing structures in the Country. If you are found to be legally intoxicated on a North Carolina highway, we firmly recommend that you seek a defense lawyer with particular experience with North Carolina DWI/DUI charges. As a former prosecutor, criminal defense attorney Thomas Amburgey is exceptionally knowledgeable of the State Court systems and the DWI/DUI process.
Violent Crimes: Assault, Battery, Domestic Violence
- Assault and Battery
- Assault with Intent to Kill
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon
- Domestic Violence
- Hate Crimes
- Sexual Assault, Rape
- Manslaughter
- Murder/Homicide
- Robbery and Burglary (Breaking and Entering)
- Vehicular Manslaughter
- Violation of Domestic Protective Order (Restraining Order)
- Weapons Crimes
Larceny: Theft, Burglary, Shoplifting
- Concealment of merchandise in a store
- Felony larceny of motor vehicle parts
- Larceny of gasoline at a service station
- Receiving or possessing stolen goods
- Removal of a shopping cart from store premises
Sex Crimes: Child Abuse, Child Pornography, Rape
- Abuse and Sexual Assault
- Indecent exposure, lewd and lascivious conduct
- Indecent liberties with a juvenile
- Internet Sex Crimes
- Molestation
- Pimping, pandering, and prostitution
- Rape and Date Rape
- Sexual Harassment
- Statutory rape (sex with a minor)
Probation Violations
- Failing to report to a probation officer
- Missing curfew
- Testing positive for alcohol or drugs
- Failing to pay fines or restitution
- New charges
Student Offenses
- Assault
- Disorderly conduct
- DWI and DWI under 21
- Fake ID possession
- Underage possession of alcohol
- Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute or for personal use
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Prescription Drug Charges
- Sexual assault or battery
DRUG & SUBSTANCE OFFENSES
A drug crime conviction can impose some of the harshest penalties available, including hefty fines, seizure of property, and possible imprisonment. If you are faced with any type of drug crime, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you navigate the complex drug laws of North Carolina.
White-Collar Crime
Common white-collar crimes include:
- Fraud
- Embezzlement
- Money Laundering
- Forgery
If you suspect that you are the subject of a criminal, corporate, or governmental investigation, seek the assistance of an experienced criminal lawyer to help you.
CERTIFIED LEGAL SPECIALIST
THE LEGAL ELITE
Best Lawyers in America