Thomas Amburgey Named to Business North Carolina’s 2026 Legal Elite in Criminal Defense
Amburgey Law is proud to announce that Thomas Amburgey has once again been selected for inclusion in Business North Carolina’s 2026 Legal Elite, this year in the Criminal Defense category. This marks the seventh time Thomas has received this peer-selected honor since 2019 — a clear reflection of the trust and respect he has earned within the North Carolina legal community.
The Legal Elite distinction is one of the state’s most prestigious legal recognitions. Fewer than 3% of North Carolina attorneys make the final list, which is determined solely by the votes of practicing lawyers who are asked to identify the peers they would recommend — and trust — for complex legal matters. Inclusion is not bought or applied for; it is earned through consistent excellence, integrity, and results.
Thomas’s inclusion year after year highlights his unwavering commitment to high-stakes criminal defense, strategic trial work, and client advocacy. A Board Certified Specialist in State Criminal Law, former prosecutor, and respected trial attorney, Thomas brings deep courtroom experience and precision to each case — from misdemeanor charges to capital defense and increasingly, federal matters.
“This recognition means a lot because it comes directly from other attorneys,” Thomas said. “These are people who understand how hard this work is and what it takes to do it well.”
At Amburgey Law, client outcomes, trust, and ethical excellence remain at the core of every case strategy. Being recognized again in the 2026 Legal Elite affirms that mission — and underscores why Thomas Amburgey continues to stand out as one of the most respected criminal defense lawyers in North Carolina.
The articles on this blog are accurate as of their date of publication and are intended to provide general information about the status of the law and commonly accepted practices in North Carolina.
These articles should not be considered legal advice.
For personalized guidance, we recommend consulting with a qualified attorney.
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.
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