When you’re charged in Carteret County, the right defense starts now.
Joel Hancock has defended thousands of people facing DWI, drug, felony, and traffic charges in the courts right here at home. Honest answers, a focused defense, no judgment.
Trusted by people across Carteret County
★★★★★ 4.9 · 131 reviews on Google →Individual results depend on the specific facts of each case; these reviews reflect those clients’ own experiences and are not a guarantee of any particular outcome.
A criminal charge can follow you for the rest of your life.
Your job, your record, your license, your freedom — they’re all on the line. You deserve a defense that takes every detail seriously.
Local court experience
Joel practices in Carteret County’s district and superior courts — the same judges, prosecutors, and clerks, week in and week out.
Straight answers, no judgment
You’ll get a clear read on the charges, your options, and what to expect — in plain English, from the attorney himself.
One focused practice
This is a criminal-defense firm. It’s not a side practice — it’s the whole practice, and it’s all in Carteret County.
Practice Areas
Focused criminal defense across the charges Carteret County residents face most.
DWI / DUI Defense
From a first offense to aggravated DWI — protecting your license and your record.
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Drug Charges
Possession, distribution, and trafficking defense under North Carolina law.
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Felonies
Serious charges demand a serious defense, built around the facts of your case.
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Misdemeanors
“Minor” charges still carry real consequences. We treat them that way.
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Traffic Offenses
Tickets, license issues, and CDL violations that can cost you more than a fine.
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Expungements
Clearing an eligible record so an old mistake stops holding you back.
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A focused defense from a local Carteret County attorney.
Joel Hancock has built his practice defending people in the courts of Carteret County since 2013. He knows the local system because he works in it every day — and he handles your case personally, start to finish.
- ✓ Thousands of client matters since 2018
- ✓ 4.9★ on Google (131 reviews) · 10.0 on Avvo
- ✓ Speaks Portuguese (fluent) and Spanish (conversational)
- ✓ When you call, you talk to Joel — if he’s in court, he calls you back
From your first call to the courtroom, you’re never in the dark.
Free Consultation
Call and tell us what happened. We’ll explain the charges and your options — at no cost.
We Build Your Defense
We review the stop, the evidence, and the charges, and map out the strongest strategy for your case.
We Fight For You
We represent you in court and work for the best possible outcome — a dismissal, a reduction, or an acquittal at trial.
Before you call, you might be wondering…
How soon should I call a lawyer?
As soon as possible. Early steps in a case — before your first court date — can make a real difference in the outcome.
How much will my defense cost?
It depends on the charge and the case. The initial consultation is free, and we’ll be clear and upfront about fees before you commit to anything.
What areas do you serve?
Carteret County only — including Beaufort, Morehead City, Newport, Atlantic Beach, and Cape Carteret.
Do you handle federal cases?
No. Hancock Law Firm focuses on North Carolina state criminal matters in Carteret County’s district and superior courts.
Charged in Carteret County? Let’s talk.
A free, confidential consultation is the first step toward protecting your future. Call now, or send a message and we’ll get right back to you.
252-515-1516601-A Cedar Street · Beaufort, NC 28516
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