Criminal Defense in New Hanover County
Board-Certified Criminal Defense When the Stakes Are High
An arrest, criminal investigation, or court notice can create immediate uncertainty about evidence, court obligations, and the consequences ahead. The right response depends on the allegation, available evidence, prior record, court requirements, and the person’s goals.
Based in Wilmington, James Rutherford, Attorney at Law represents people facing criminal allegations throughout the county. Attorney James Rutherford is board-certified in criminal law by the North Carolina State Bar. Early defense work can clarify the accusation, identify urgent obligations, preserve relevant information, and assess options under North Carolina law.
Speak with a criminal law attorney serving New Hanover County. Call (910) 595-1377 to request a free consultation.
More Than 20 Years of Criminal Defense Experience
Attorney Rutherford brings more than 20 years of experience to criminal cases. He holds an AV Preeminent® rating and was selected to Super Lawyers® for 2024 through 2026 after Rising Stars™ selections from 2013 through 2015. His professional credentials also include membership in the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, recognition by The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and an NHTSA Field Sobriety Certification.
Criminal & Disciplinary Matters the Firm Handles
The firm handles felony and misdemeanor allegations as well as disciplinary proceedings involving schools and universities. From its Wilmington base, James Rutherford, Attorney at Law serves clients across the county. A defense attorney serving New Hanover County can evaluate the immediate legal process and potential effects on employment, education, driving privileges, professional credentials, and family responsibilities.
Representation is available for matters involving:
- Serious sex crimes
- Violent crimes
- Drug crimes
- DWI allegations
- Domestic violence accusations
- Theft, embezzlement, and fraud
- Title IX matters involving the federal law prohibiting sex discrimination in education
- School and university suspension hearings
Cases We Handle
Our Clients Share Their Experience
-
"He was always in great communication with us, organized, and reliable, which gave us the utmost confidence in him."
- Lori -
"He was able to get it dismissed and also represented my father who also won his case."
- Elisha -
"You could see it on his face he actually cares about children in the school and their rights as individuals."
- Dimitrius
Clear Guidance During a High-Stakes Criminal Case
Effective representation requires candid communication about sensitive facts. The firm reviews each person’s circumstances, explains available options in understandable terms, and identifies what information should be gathered next. Clients receive individualized preparation, clear guidance, and tenacious advocacy through each applicable stage of the case.
Discuss Your Criminal Matter
A free consultation allows a prospective client to discuss the accusation, review possible next steps, and decide whether to pursue representation. Bringing charging papers, court notices, release documents, and other available records can make the initial conversation more productive.
No consultation can establish a guaranteed outcome. Available defenses and procedural options depend on the facts, evidence, charge, prior record, and governing North Carolina criminal law.
Call (910) 595-1377 to request a free consultation with James Rutherford, Attorney at Law.