3 Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Wilmington, NC

Expert-recommended Top 3 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Wilmington, North Carolina. All of our criminal defense attorneys actually face a rigorous 50-Point Inspection, which includes customer reviews, history, complaints, ratings, satisfaction, trust, cost and general excellence. You deserve only the best!

9+ YEARS IN TBR
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H. LAWRENCE SHOTWELL

THE SHOTWELL LAW GROUP PLLC
115 North 6th Street,
Wilmington, NC 28401 Directions

Since 1997

Specialty:

Serious Injury Armed Robbery Larceny Possession of Stolen Goods Breaking and Entering Burglary Obtaining Property by False Pretenses Embezzlement First Degree and Second Degree Murder Involuntary and Voluntary Manslaughter Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill (Inflicting Serious Injury) Drug Crimes Trafficking in Controlled Substances Possession with Intent Probation Violation Drug Possession Juvenile Crime Drug Trafficking Underage Drinking Student Crimes Defense

"H. Lawrence Shotwell earned his Juris Doctor from the William & Mary School of Law in Williamsburg, Virginia, and his Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts and Sciences from the University of Virginia. He is a member of the North Carolina State Bar Association and the Carolina Beach Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Shotwell is widely recognized for his role in developing the “Shotwell Motion,” which has led to numerous DWI dismissals across the state. As the founder of The Shotwell Law Group, PLLC, he leads a team of two attorneys and four support staff, bringing a combined legal experience of over 30 years. The Shotwell Law Group, PLLC, has extensive trial experience to provide exceptional legal representation, consistently exceeding client expectations and achieving the best possible outcomes. They defend clients facing criminal charges in New Hanover and Pender counties. Contact them today for a free consultation.

2026 Update: The Shotwell law group has two attorneys with over 30 years of combined legal experience, with four dedicated support staff."

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License #24713

Contact:

(910) 762-1672 (910) 427-5677

Mon-Fri: 8am - 6pm
Sat & Sun: Closed

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THOM GOOLSBY

GOOLSBY LAW FIRM, PLLC
212 Walnut Street, Suite 100,
Wilmington, NC 28401 Directions

Since 1993

Specialty:

DUI Violent Crimes Sex Crimes Traffic Violations White Collar Crimes Theft Crimes Probation Violations Drug Crimes Personal Injury Aggravated Assault Simple Assault Fraud Embezzlement Money Laundering Bribery Tax Evasion Felony Assault Domestic Violence Murder Manslaughter Speeding Ticket Speed Competitions Careless and Reckless Driving Driving on a Revoked Suspended License Running a Red Light Hit and Run Driving While Impaired

"Thom Goolsby is the owner and manager of Goolsby Law Firm, PLLC. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of North Carolina School of Law, an MBA from Golden Gate University, and a Bachelor of Arts from The Military College of South Carolina. A member of the North Carolina Bar since 1992, he has 34 years of experience advocating for clients and aggressively defending those harmed in accidents or facing criminal charges. Mr. Goolsby has tried hundreds of criminal and personal injury cases and has successfully negotiated numerous personal injury settlements. He also authored an article in the ISISC Journal titled The Role of the Prosecutor in the Administration of Justice. For skilled legal representation, contact Goolsby Law Firm, PLLC, to schedule a free consultation.

2026 Update: Thom Goolsby Served Two Terms as a North Carolina Senator."

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North Carolina Governor’s Order of the Long Leaf Pine (State’s Highest Award)
Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Million Dollar Advocate
License #18693

Contact:

(910) 262-7401 (910) 763-3339

Mon-Thu: 9am - 5pm
Fri: 9am - 4pm
Sat & Sun: Closed

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James F. Rutherford - Wilmington, NC Criminal Defense Lawyers
James F. Rutherford - Wilmington, NC Criminal Defense Lawyers
3+ YEARS IN TBR
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JAMES F. RUTHERFORD

JAMES RUTHERFORD, ATTORNEY AT LAW
508 Princess Street,
Wilmington, NC 28401 Directions

Since 2005

Specialty:

Domestic Violence Restraining Orders Theft Crimes Drug Violent Heroin and Marijuana Crimes Possession DWI Cases Breath and Blood Tests Restoration Hearings License Revocation/Suspension Robbery Burglary Shoplifting Assault Murder Manslaughter University and School Suspensions

"James F. Rutherford is a certified specialist with 20 years of proven legal experience in criminal law. He earned his undergraduate degree with honors from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and his law degree from Michigan State University School of Law. He is authorized by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to administer standardized field sobriety tests. He is recognized by the National Trial Lawyers Association as one of the top 100 criminal defense lawyers in the nation. James F. Rutherford is dedicated to ensuring his clients have a strong voice in the criminal justice system. He relentlessly fights every charge, no matter how complex or challenging. At James Rutherford, Attorney at Law, he represents individuals, organizations, and entities facing criminal allegations. His team is committed to providing innovative legal strategies and creative solutions while offering compassionate and professional support throughout the legal process. Contact James Rutherford, Attorney at Law, today to schedule a free initial consultation.

2026 Update: James F. Rutherford represents both sides of domestic violence defense cases."

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License #34436

Contact:

(910) 595-1377

Mon-Fri: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Sat & Sun: Closed

TBR® Inspection Report: