Mooresville Violent Crime Lawyer

Mooresville Violent Crime Attorney

Violent crime in North Carolina includes everything from domestic violence to homicide. If you find yourself being charged with a violent crime, your future may be on the line. Punishments include extensive sentences, high fines, and a reduction of your rights. If you are facing charges of a violent crime in Mooresville, North Carolina, or the surrounding areas, a dedicated Mooresville violent crime lawyer can help.

A skilled criminal defense attorney can examine your case and help build a strong defense. At The Law Office of Michael D. Cleaves, PLLC, our Mooresville violent crime lawyer will carefully review your case and develop a strong defense to challenge the prosecution’s theory and evidence against you.

Violent Crimes in Mooresville, North Carolina

According to a recent census, Mooresville’s population has grown to just over 50,000. A community benefits when its population grows, bringing about new job opportunities, more restaurants or shopping centers, and social opportunities. Unfortunately, growth can also mean higher crime rates in some areas. Mooresville is the largest city in Iredell County, which has seen an increase of violent crime by 4% in the last year.

According to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI), in 2024, there were 3,577 violent offenses. Aggravated assault accounted for the majority of those cases, followed by robbery, rape, and homicide. Violent crimes each carry significant penalties, depending on the circumstances. As Mooresville continues to grow, Iredell County has seen a measurable increase in violent crime reports.

If you are facing criminal charges in Mooresville, you should be aware of a couple of different courts. The Iredell County District Court is where misdemeanors are heard in front of a judge. Felony charges are heard in front of a jury at the Iredell Superior Court. It is important not to just plead guilty; a skilled criminal defense attorney can defend you and review your case to see if your rights were at all violated by law enforcement.

Violent Crime Defense Strategies

Being charged with a violent crime does not mean automatic sentencing for you. No matter the criminal charges you are facing, a prosecutor will still need to prove you are guilty in order to convict you. A Mooresville violent crime attorney, such as The Law Office of Michael D. Cleaves, PLLC, can examine your case and craft a strong defense for you.

Common defense strategies include:

• Lack of probable cause by the arresting officer
• False witness testimony
• A strong alibi confirming you were elsewhere at the time of the crime
• Unconscious bias by the police
• False evidence
• Defective testing of evidence
• Illegal search and seizure
• Overall, there is insufficient evidence to charge you

A strong criminal defense attorney will be able to spot any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and be able to poke holes in their argument. If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to protect yourself by finding a skilled lawyer immediately.

Why Choose Us?

At The Law Office of Michael D. Cleaves, PLLC, we bring over a decade of focused criminal defense experience to every case. Our firm has built its reputation on careful preparation and a steady, disciplined approach to complex matters. Because we are based in Statesville and routinely serve clients in Mooresville and throughout Iredell County, we understand how local courts operate and what prosecutors tend to prioritize.

We care about what is at stake for you. This means we take the time to review evidence piece by piece, identify weaknesses in the prosecution, and give you a clear understanding of the legal process.

FAQs

What Is Considered a Violent Crime in NC?

Violent crimes in North Carolina include aggravated assault, robbery, rape, and homicide. North Carolina categorizes these crimes as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the severity of the crime. In 2024, Iredell County saw a rise in violent crimes, the most common of which was aggravated assault. Aggravated assault is a felony in North Carolina, and assaults that involve domestic violence or are aimed at a government official carry more severe penalties.

How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost in North Carolina?

Criminal lawyers in North Carolina charge based on either an hourly fee or a flat rate. These rates are based on the severity of the crime, where your attorney is located, and their experience. A criminal defense attorney who has been in practice for many years with proven results will cost more than a newer attorney. Michael D. Cleaves has over 15 years of experience serving clients in Mooresville with proven results for those facing criminal charges.

Is North Carolina a Stand Your Ground State in 2025?

Yes, North Carolina is a Stand Your Ground state in 2025. Stand Your Ground laws allow individuals the right to use deadly force in self-defense with no “duty to retreat.” Duty to retreat is the legal requirement for those attempting to leave a dangerous situation before resorting to force. North Carolina is one of several states that have adopted stand your ground laws and have made self-defense a valid defense when facing aggravated assault or murder charges.

What Makes a Person a Violent Offender?

A person becomes a violent offender when they have been charged with a violent crime such as murder, robbery, rape, or assault. Being labeled as a violent offender can change someone’s life forever. Charges may lead to lengthy jail or prison time, heavy legal fees and fines, and may impact future job opportunities. It is important to speak with a skilled lawyer right away if you have been arrested for a violent crime.

Hire a Violent Crime Lawyer

If you are charged with a violent crime in Mooresville, North Carolina, it is important to hire a violent crime lawyer with proven results. At The Law Office of Michael D. Cleaves, our attorney, Michael Cleaves, has many years of experience representing clients in Mooresville and throughout Iredell County. Our team will treat you with compassion while crafting an aggressive defense. Don’t delay, contact our office today.

Mooresville Violent Crime Lawyer Reviews

Mooresville Violent Crime Resource:

• Tips for Overcoming Violent Tendencies