Defending clients against DWI charges and all types of criminal allegations. The opportunity to fight for the preservation of my clients rights under the law is an awesome privilege.

There was never any question in my mind as to which field of law I would practice. I knew I wanted to be a counselor and defender to those faced with criminal prosecution. Staring down government accusations of criminal wrongdoing is a frightening process for most people. Criminal defendants deserve to have an advocate who is sworn to champion their constitutional rights, and protect their liberty throughout the judicial process.

I was raised in a family that stressed the importance of service to those who didn't always have a recognized voice in the world. My parents were teachers, and my Grandmother retired as an instructor to children with special needs. She was the first person in my family to graduate from college, and her diploma and graduation photo are proudly on display in my office.

I received my trial training in one of the highest national crime centers in the country, as a Public Defender in Baltimore Maryland. It is a start that I am very proud to have experienced. I represented hundreds of clients during those four years, and did my best to provide them with as many options as possible as their cases progressed. I had dozens of bench trials, and conducted the defense of over 25 jury trials. Winning was important - it was a very important thing - but it wasn't always the only thing. I learned that my clients wanted an advocate that kept open a clear line of honest communication. It's this kind of interaction that over time, builds a solid foundation of trust. Trust is essential when clients are facing life changing decisions.

Whether it be a bond review, or a closing argument...I want my client's input. Criminal defendants have a lot on the line, and they deserve to be a part of the process. I bring a high level of expertise to a case, but certain decisions will ultimately rest with my client. For example, whether or not to testify, and whether or not to enter a plea or request a trial. My job is to open as many doors for my clients as possible, advise them of the best door to walk through - and when necessary...to go to battle to ensure their freedom.

Now a practicing lawyer in North Carolina in private practice, I am proud to have founded the Scharff Law Firm in Raleigh. I specialize in defending DWI charges, Domestic Violence, Drug Charges, and Theft Charges. It's been a fun and challenging experience making the transition from being a Maryland Public Defender to a defense attorney in private practice. I look forward to working diligently to defend a new group of clients across the state of North Carolina.