Criminal Defense lawyers in Durham

Durham County criminal matters are handled at the Durham County Courthouse, 510 South Dillard Street. The North Carolina Judicial Branch lists the courthouse hours as Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and the Clerk of Superior Court at (919) 808-3000.

Court dates and case information can change. Verify the courtroom, date, and case status through the North Carolina eCourts Portal or the clerk before traveling.

North Carolina law generally requires an arrested person to be taken before a judicial official without unnecessary delay. The judicial official explains the charge and considers release conditions. Those conditions may include an unsecured bond, release to a supervising person, a secured bond, or electronic monitoring, depending on the circumstances and applicable law.

A felony defendant is generally entitled to a first appearance before a District Court judge. The timing and next steps depend on the charge and custody status, so ask a lawyer to explain the process for the specific case.

The Durham County Sheriff provides an online inmate population search for current booking information. Court records and dispositions are available through the clerk and the statewide eCourts Portal.

Some dismissed charges and convictions may qualify for expunction, but eligibility and waiting periods are statute-specific. The Judicial Branch publishes official forms and general eligibility information. Do not assume a record qualifies without checking the applicable law.