Business Details
14 Years
experience
Your Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney in Raleigh, NC
Coolidge Law Firm is a dedicated criminal defense practice serving Wake County, North Carolina. Founded on principles of unwavering advocacy and client-centered representation, we specialize in defending individuals facing state and federal criminal charges, including DWI, traffic violations, drug offenses, domestic violence, and violent crimes. Our attorneys combine decades of legal experience with a deep understanding of local and federal court systems to develop strategic defenses tailored to each client's unique circumstances.We prioritize transparent communication, offering 24/7 availability to address client concerns throughout the legal process. With a proven track record of securing dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable verdicts, we are committed to protecting clients' rights, reputations, and futures while maintaining the highest standards of ethical legal practice.
Services
Criminal Defense
DWI Defense
Traffic Violations
Federal Defense
Expungement
Domestic Violence
Sex Offenses
Drug Charges
Violent Crimes
Student Misconduct
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We offer 24/7 client communication and case updates
- Our attorneys have decades of combined criminal defense experience
- Proven success in securing case dismissals and reduced charges
- Specialized knowledge of Wake County and federal court procedures
- Comprehensive defense strategies for complex criminal allegations
What people say
Excellent representation
Professional and intelligent
Efficient service
Changed my life
Highly recommend
Services
Criminal Defense
Our criminal defense attorneys represent clients facing felony and misdemeanor charges in Wake County and federal courts. We provide aggressive advocacy for offenses ranging from drug crimes to violent felonies. Our approach combines thorough evidence analysis, constitutional rights protection, and strategic negotiation to achieve case dismissals or reduced charges while maintaining client confidentiality and minimizing life impact.
DWI Defense
Specialized defense against DWI charges in North Carolina, including field sobriety test challenges and blood alcohol evidence analysis. We contest breathalyzer accuracy, procedural violations, and license suspension consequences while developing defense strategies tailored to first-time or repeat offenses and commercial driver implications.
Federal Defense
Representation in federal criminal cases involving drug trafficking, fraud, and weapons offenses. Our attorneys challenge evidence obtained through FBI, DEA, or ATF investigations while navigating complex federal sentencing guidelines and mandatory minimum requirements to protect clients from severe penalties including long-term imprisonment and asset forfeiture.
Expungement
Legal assistance with criminal record expungement for eligible offenses in North Carolina. We guide clients through petition processes for non-violent misdemeanors and felonies, juvenile offenses, and dismissed charges while addressing employment and licensing implications to restore professional opportunities and personal reputation.
Traffic Violations
Defense against serious traffic offenses including reckless driving, license suspension, and hit-and-run charges. We negotiate reduced penalties, challenge radar/laser evidence accuracy, and prevent insurance rate increases while protecting commercial driver licenses from career-threatening consequences through courtroom advocacy and plea bargaining strategies.
People
David A. Coolidge
Founding Attorney
David Coolidge graduated top 5% of his Duke University class, choosing criminal defense over corporate law. With decades of courtroom experience, he specializes in complex criminal cases and federal defense while maintaining active trial advocacy and client-focused representation in Wake County.
Paul Elledge
Criminal Defense Attorney
Paul Elledge brings extensive criminal law experience to the firm, having studied history and political science at UNC-Greensboro. He focuses on state criminal matters and trial preparation while maintaining commitment to client education and strategic defense development.
Brent Blakesley
Office Manager
Brent Blakesley manages firm operations with Duke University computer science and linguistics expertise. He ensures efficient case management and client communication while supporting attorneys with technical resources and administrative oversight.
Eric Valencia
Client Relations Coordinator
Eric Valencia serves as primary client liaison, maintaining continuous case updates and court process communication. He coordinates client interactions while ensuring accessibility and transparency throughout the legal proceedings.
Questions
What should I do immediately after a DWI arrest?
Contact Coolidge Law Firm immediately to protect your rights. We'll examine procedural violations, challenge evidence, and work to prevent license suspension while preparing your defense strategy.
Can first-time felony charges be reduced?
Yes, our attorneys negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or secure alternative sentencing through plea agreements while exploring all possible defense avenues.
How does expungement affect job prospects?
Successful expungement legally erases your criminal record, allowing you to truthfully state no conviction exists when applying for most employment opportunities.
What differentiates federal criminal cases?
Federal cases involve specialized procedures, severe penalties, and extensive government resources. Our experience with Eastern District courts ensures effective navigation of these complex cases.
Can traffic tickets impact my criminal record?
Certain violations like reckless driving create criminal records. We contest charges to prevent long-term consequences affecting employment, insurance, and driving privileges.
