Asheville Criminal Defense Attorney

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When you face a criminal charge in Asheville, NC, the stakes are high and the legal system moves quickly. James H. Mills, P.C. is a focused criminal defense attorney practice serving Asheville, NC, and the surrounding Western North Carolina region, with more than 22 years of experience in North Carolina criminal courts. Free initial consultations are available. Call (828) 255-0100 today to protect your rights.


Attorney James H. Mills concentrates his practice on criminal law. That focused approach means he can navigate the specific rules, calendars, and procedures of the Buncombe County Courthouse at 60 Court Plaza in downtown Asheville, where District Court handles misdemeanors and traffic matters and Superior Court handles felony cases. Whether your charge starts in District Court or reaches Superior Court, you benefit from an attorney who knows this courthouse and is prepared to defend you at every level.

Criminal Defense Services in Asheville and Buncombe County

James H. Mills, P.C. defends clients against a wide range of criminal charges throughout Western North Carolina. Practice areas include:

▸ DWI and DUI charges, including challenges to breathalyzer results and field sobriety procedures.

▸ Drug offenses, from simple possession to more serious drug-related charges.

▸ Felony and misdemeanor charges, including assault, theft, and weapons offenses.

▸ Domestic violence matters and civil protective orders, including 50B and 50C actions.

▸ Federal criminal charges in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina, also located in Asheville.

▸ Traffic offenses of all kinds, including driving while license revoked and reckless driving.

▸ Expunctions, where eligible, to help clear past charges from your record.

Buncombe County also operates a Drug Treatment Court, which may offer eligible non-violent defendants treatment alternatives to incarceration. Attorney Mills can advise whether any alternative program may apply to your situation.

What Can You Expect When You Work With James H. Mills?

Working with a criminal defense attorney should be straightforward. Here is how the process typically works:

  1. Call (828) 255-0100 to schedule your free initial consultation, by appointment.
  2. Meet with Attorney Mills to review your charges, discuss your rights, and outline potential defense strategies.
  3. Attorney Mills investigates your case, reviews evidence, and identifies any weaknesses in the prosecution's position.
  4. He builds and presents your defense, negotiating with prosecutors or representing you at trial in Buncombe County District or Superior Court.
  5. After your case resolves, he advises on any follow-up steps, including whether expunction may be available.


Attorney Mills regularly schedules appointments outside standard business hours to accommodate clients. Early contact can make a real difference, as prompt legal action may preserve key evidence and help avoid missteps that could harm your case.

Why Choose James H. Mills, P.C. for Your Defense

James H. Mills has earned recognition from the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and has received multiple peer awards for professional excellence, including selection to Super Lawyers' Rising Stars and recognition as a Top Attorney. He graduated from Wake Forest University School of Law and has been practicing criminal defense in Western North Carolina since 2001.


Clients throughout Asheville and surrounding communities, including Black Mountain, Weaverville, Swannanoa, and West Asheville, can turn to James H. Mills, P.C. for dedicated representation. See the full scope of services on the practice areas page, or learn more about Attorney Mills at the our attorney page.


How Much Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Cost in Asheville, NC?

Attorney fees vary depending on the complexity of your charges, whether your case involves District Court or Superior Court, and the time required to build your defense. James H. Mills, P.C. offers free initial consultations so you can discuss your situation and understand your options before making any financial commitment.


What Should I Do Immediately After Being Charged With a Crime in NC?

Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Avoid speaking to law enforcement without legal counsel present. Early intervention may help preserve evidence, protect your constitutional rights, and open the door to options, such as reduced charges or diversion programs, that may not be available later in the process.


Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

A criminal charge can affect your job, your freedom, and your future. James H. Mills, P.C. provides focused, experienced criminal defense representation throughout Asheville, NC, and Western North Carolina. Call (828) 255-0100 or visit the location and contact page to schedule your free consultation by appointment.