Carter Tate Lambeth, Criminal Defense Attorney in Wilmington, North Carolina

Carter concentrates on criminal defense, family law, and litigation. Each area below outlines the kind of case Carter handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Family Law

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• Litigation

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Carter's primary office is at 232 Princess Street, Wilmington, NC, 28402. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Carter usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Carter discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Carter for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Carter walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Carter offer a free consultation?

  Carter charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Carter's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Carter's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in North Carolina typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Carter gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Carter take my case if I'm outside Wilmington?

  Carter is licensed in North Carolina. Matters governed by North Carolina law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Carter will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Carter?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Carter will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Carter accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Carter's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.