FAQs

General FAQs

Fees vary based on the type and complexity of your case. We offer hourly rates, flat fees, and contingent fees for different services. During your consultation, we’ll explain the fee structure and available options. We accept major credit cards and offer billing through a secure online payment system.
Your attorney will keep you updated through regular communication by phone or email. We value clear, timely communication and are committed to keeping you informed every step of the way.
After your consultation, you will be matched with an attorney who is best suited to your legal issue. Our attorneys often work collaboratively and are supported by experienced paralegals and staff to ensure thorough and responsive representation.
To schedule a consultation, please call our office at (919) 821-4711 or use the contact form on our website. Our staff will connect you with the appropriate attorney based on your legal needs.
Our office is located in downtown Raleigh at 150 Fayetteville Street, Suite 1900. Convenient parking is available nearby, and we serve clients throughout North Carolina.
Tharrington Smith is a full-service law firm based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Our attorneys provide legal representation in family law, education law, criminal defense, civil litigation, and criminal tax defense. We are known across the state for our experienced trial lawyers and our deep commitment to client service.

Mediation is a structured negotiation facilitated by a neutral third party. In many North Carolina civil cases, mediation is required before trial. It offers an opportunity to resolve the case without the time and expense of going to court.
Discovery is the formal process where both parties exchange information relevant to the case. This may include written questions (interrogatories), requests for documents, and depositions. It’s a critical phase to build your case.
Not necessarily. Many civil disputes are settled before trial through negotiation or mediation. However, if a fair resolution cannot be reached, our attorneys are fully prepared to litigate in court.
We handle high-stakes and complex civil litigation, including bet-the-company disputes, business and commercial litigation, catastrophic injury and wrongful death, creditors’ rights, election law, intellectual property, local government matters, professional licensing defense, police misconduct, and civil rights cases.
The process typically includes filing a complaint, discovery (exchange of evidence), pre-trial motions, trial, and potentially an appeal.
The statute of limitations varies depending on the type of case. For example, personal injury claims generally have a three-year limit, while breach of contract cases may have different timeframes.

Yes, it’s advisable to have legal representation. Even first-time DUI/DWI offenses can carry significant penalties, including license suspension, fines, and possible jail time. An attorney can help navigate the legal process and work towards the best possible outcome.
Bail is a financial arrangement that allows a defendant to be released from custody while awaiting trial. The amount is set by a judge based on factors like the severity of the offense, prior criminal history, and flight risk.
Misdemeanor convictions can result in penalties such as fines, community service, probation, or jail time. Additionally, a conviction may impact employment opportunities and result in a permanent criminal record.
Yes. Our criminal defense team represents individuals charged with misdemeanors, felonies, DWI, drug offenses, and federal crimes throughout North Carolina.
Yes, depending on the circumstances, charges can sometimes be dismissed due to insufficient evidence, procedural errors, or through successful pre-trial motions filed by your defense attorney.
If you’re arrested, it’s crucial to remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Politely decline to answer any questions without an attorney present and request to contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

In some cases, it’s possible to negotiate a plea agreement or settlement with the IRS, potentially reducing penalties or avoiding trial.
Yes, generally the statute of limitations is six years for criminal tax offenses, but certain factors can extend this period.
Penalties can include substantial fines, restitution, and imprisonment. The severity depends on factors like the amount of tax evaded and the nature of the fraudulent activity.
It’s crucial to seek legal representation immediately. Do not provide any information or answer questions without consulting a criminal tax defense attorney.
Tax evasion involves illegally underreporting income or inflating deductions to reduce tax liability, whereas tax avoidance refers to legally utilizing tax laws to minimize taxes owed.

Yes, under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), schools must provide necessary accommodations to ensure students with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education.
Schools are required to have anti-bullying policies in place. Parents and students should report incidents to school administrators, who must investigate and take appropriate action.
Parents can request an evaluation for special education services and, if eligible, work with the school to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to their child’s needs.
We advise on a wide range of matters including employment, student discipline, public records, open meetings, civil rights, special education, contracts, and litigation.
Our education law practice primarily represents school systems and public institutions. We do not typically represent individual students or parents in disputes with schools.
Tharrington Smith serves as general counsel to numerous public school systems across North Carolina. We are the largest and longest-standing education law firm in the state.

In certain circumstances, grandparents may petition the court for visitation rights, especially if there’s a substantial relationship with the grandchild and it’s in the child’s best interests.
Yes. Our family law attorneys have extensive experience handling complex custody disputes, including cases involving relocation, mental health concerns, or allegations of abuse.
No, North Carolina follows the equitable distribution model, meaning marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally, based on various factors during a divorce.
Courts prioritize the best interests of the child, evaluating factors like each parent’s living situation, relationship with the child, stability, and ability to provide for the child’s needs.
Child support is determined using the North Carolina Child Support Guidelines, which consider factors such as each parent’s income, childcare costs, healthcare expenses, and the custody arrangement.
To file for divorce, one spouse must have been a resident of North Carolina for at least six months, and the couple must have lived separately for a minimum of one year. After meeting these requirements, you can file a Complaint for Absolute Divorce with the court.