919.457.1954

We Go to Battle to
Protect Your Freedom

Free Case Consultation

Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyers


Learning you or a loved one is being investigated or charged with a criminal offense can be devastating. Our government promise of “innocent until proven guilty” may seem empty. When you are facing criminal allegations, you’ll need compassionate and unyielding legal representation to protect your rights and ensure you have the best possible experience while dealing with the legal system.

The criminal defense attorneys at Scharff Law Firm proudly serve Raleigh, North Carolina, and the surrounding areas. Everyone deserves justice. When you are facing charges of a criminal nature, you deserve to have advocates who will fight tirelessly to ensure fair treatment and that your case is thoroughly evaluated. We’re ready to help you through this difficult time.

The firm's founder, Jesse Scharff (now Of Counsel), has dedicated his entire legal career to defending the rights of those accused of crimes. Amily McCool served as a prosecutor in Wake County for several years giving her a unique insight into defending those charged in Wake County. In addition, she has worked for 20 years in the anti-domestic violence field and assists survivors in gaining protection or battling challenges in the legal system.

Whether you’re facing your first DWI or need assistance in a complex domestic violence case, we have the legal experience to help you face these allegations. We understand defendants often go through the same emotional experience as those who have brought charges against the defendant. Allow us to be your advocate and you’ll find we’re not the type of lawyers who will try to secure a lenient punishment. We work hard to protect your constitutional rights and fight for fairness on your behalf.

When you contact Scharff Law Firm, you will receive personalized attention from a Raleigh criminal defense attorney. You will have direct access for counsel on your case when you need it most. Contacting our offices as soon as possible will allow us to begin working quickly to ensure you are prepared for any investigation, hearing, or other legal proceeding. Many times, our work at the beginning of a case successfully leads to reduced or dropped charges.

we want you to know that there is a roadmap towards hope.

- Scharff Law Firm

Free Consultation

We provide free consultations both over the phone and in person. The consultation will explain the court process in detail, and what possible defenses you have in your case.

Request Free Consultation

Our Areas of Expertise


Sworn to Protect Our Client's Liberty.


Kudos to Amily and the firm for the extra effort towards client care.

Scharff Law Firm and Amily McCool are the absolute best law firm and individual lawyer that I have ever encountered. The follow through and level of professionalism experienced are unmatched. From the first consultation to the final court date, Amily made me feel like a friend that she wanted to help. When you are in a vulnerable state and have to hire the services of a professional, it is refreshing to have someone treat you like a friend, not a case number.

Criminal Defense Client

I'm so glad I hired her! I'm sure I wouldn't have gotten the same good results without her assistance.

Amily McCool was just wonderful in helping me get a permanent Domestic Violence Protective Order in Wake County. She answered the phone when I first called and arranged an office consultation the same day. She listened well to understand the situation, clearly explained the options, patiently answered my questions, promptly responded to my text messages, incorporated my suggestions in the draft order, and negotiated with the defendant to obtain terms that were fair, addressed my concerns, made me feel safe, and were agreed to by the defendant and approved by the judge.

Restraining Order/DVPO Client

Types of Cases We Handle


Misdemeanors and felonies. From simple shoplifting misdemeanors to felony drug charges, you’ll want legal representation that fights for you with the same passion every time. No charge is too simple or too complex. Our firm has experience with many diverse misdemeanors and felonies in Raleigh and the Wake County area.

As your legal representation, our defense firm can help you fight the charges. If you’re facing a conviction, that may be when you need our assistance most. We want to make sure anyone convicted of a misdemeanor or felony only receives punishment that is fair. Every case is different, and our personalized approach allows us to cater our defense strategy to our clients.

The types of cases we can help you with include,
but are not limited to:

  • Drug charges including possession, intent to distribute and trafficking
  • Traffic violations
  • DWI (Driving While Intoxicated)
  • Domestic violence
  • Expunctions
  • Campus/Title IX
  • Name & Gender Identity Marker Changes
  • Fraud
  • Theft

"Everyone deserves equal treatment under the law. Our clients deserve special treatment and attention from their attorney."

- Amily McCool

Here to Help

If you have questions about how our practice can help you, call us today for a free consultation. While we cannot make any guarantees during the consultation, we can provide you with a better understanding of what you face. Remember that timing is often a key factor when developing a defense strategy.