1. Goodman, Carr, Laughrun, Greene & Heroy — Uptown & Elizabeth
A focus on DWI, per the firm.
George V. Laughrun II focuses on DWI and criminal defense from South McDowell Street.
301 S McDowell St, Suite 602, Charlotte, NC 28204
The Best DWI Lawyers in Charlotte (2026)
The best DWI lawyers in Charlotte in 2026 include George V. Laughrun II of Goodman, Carr, Laughrun, Greene & Heroy, Butler, Quinn & Hochman, Arnold & Smith, and Johnson & Nicholson.
The list at a glance
| Firm | Office | Focus | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Goodman, Carr, Laughrun, Greene & Heroy | Uptown & Elizabeth | DWI defense | Clients wanting a certified specialist |
| 2. Butler, Quinn & Hochman | East Charlotte | DWI defense | East Side clients |
| 3. Arnold & Smith | Uptown & Elizabeth | DWI | Uptown clients |
| 4. Johnson & Nicholson | East Charlotte | DWI and traffic | Non-citizens charged with DWI |
North Carolina calls the charge DWI. It has a sentencing scale with levels of punishment based on aggravating and mitigating factors, so preparation before court matters. A license revocation usually starts right after an arrest, so call a lawyer soon.
2. Butler, Quinn & Hochman — East Charlotte
A dedicated Charlotte DWI page.
Butler, Quinn & Hochman has a dedicated Charlotte DWI page and offers a free consultation.
4801 E Independence Blvd, Suite 700, Charlotte, NC 28212
3. Arnold & Smith — Uptown & Elizabeth
DWI within a criminal practice.
Arnold & Smith handles DWI within its criminal defense practice.
200 N McDowell St, Charlotte, NC 28204
4. Johnson & Nicholson — East Charlotte
DWI with immigration experience.
Johnson & Nicholson lists DWI and traffic, and its immigration work helps where status may be affected.
5806 Monroe Rd, Suite 102, Charlotte, NC 28212
Frequently asked questions
Is a first DWI a misdemeanor in North Carolina?
Usually, yes, with a sentencing level based on factors such as your blood alcohol level and prior record. Serious injury or prior convictions can raise it. Ask a lawyer how it applies.
What can I do before court to help my case?
Lawyers often advise getting a substance assessment and keeping records of any treatment, since those can count as mitigating factors. Ask your lawyer before you start.
Can I keep driving after a DWI arrest?
A civil license revocation usually applies right after a chemical test failure or refusal. Limited driving privileges may be available in some cases, so ask a lawyer.