TRUSTED SEX CRIMES ATTORNEY IN NORTH CAROLINA

Sex Crime Arrest Process in North Carolina: What to Expect

Arrested for a Sex Crime in North Carolina? Here's What You Need to Know

A sex crime arrest in North Carolina can upend your life in an instant. These cases often begin without warning, involve confusing legal steps, and can leave the accused overwhelmed and unprepared. Understanding the arrest process is the first step in protecting your rights and preparing a strategic response.

Patrick Roberts Law has guided hundreds of individuals in Raleigh, Durham, Wake County, and throughout the state through the criminal process. From the moment an investigation begins to the resolution of a case, having the right information—and the right legal team—can make all the difference.

To get in touch with our skilled team, connect with us online or give us a call at 919-746-7206 now to schedule a confidential consultation.

Overview: The North Carolina Sex Crime Arrest Process

• Complaint Filed: Someone reports an alleged sex offense to police or protective services.
• Investigation Begins: Law enforcement gathers statements, digital evidence, or forensic results.
• Arrest Executed: If probable cause is found, the suspect is arrested and taken to jail.
• Booking and Detention: Processing at a detention center (e.g., Wake County Jail); may await bond hearing.
• Bond Hearing: A magistrate or judge decides on release conditions within 48 hours.
• Court Proceedings: Includes hearings, indictment (if felony), motions, and trial if unresolved.

How Do Sex Crime Investigations Typically Begin?

Most arrests originate from a single report to law enforcement or child protective services. This report initiates a formal investigation, which can proceed rapidly and quietly. Police may interview the accuser, speak to witnesses, and begin collecting electronic communications such as texts or social media messages. In some cases, investigators request a search warrant for a suspect’s phone, computer, or home.

Even before you are contacted, your actions may be under scrutiny. Allegations involving minors often include collaboration with digital forensic units or advocacy groups, especially in Wake County and nearby regions. Once law enforcement believes they have enough evidence, they may move forward without waiting for all questions to be resolved.

What Happens During a Sex Crime Arrest in North Carolina?

When the arrest takes place, it may happen at your home, workplace, or a public setting. You’ll typically be handcuffed, transported to the nearest detention center—often the Wake County Detention Center in Raleigh—and processed. This includes fingerprinting, being photographed, and a formal reading of your rights.

It’s critical at this point to remain silent and avoid providing statements to police or investigators. Anything said can be used later by prosecutors. Early legal representation can prevent the missteps that often occur during high-stress interactions with law enforcement.

Will You Be Held in Jail?

Yes, unless released immediately by a magistrate, you will likely be held until a bond determination is made. That could happen the same day or up to 48 hours after the arrest. Magistrates and judges consider several factors:

• The severity of the alleged offense
• The defendant’s criminal history
• The risk of fleeing or reoffending
• Community ties and employment status

In many first-time cases, lower bond amounts or non-secured conditions are possible. However, sex crimes are often viewed as high-risk, making advocacy at this stage essential. Learn more about navigating first-time charges: First-Time Sex Crime Charges.

What Is a Bond Hearing, and How Does It Affect Your Case?

At the bond hearing, your attorney has the opportunity to present mitigating factors that support your release. This may include evidence of community involvement, employment, family support, or the weaknesses of the charges themselves. Depending on the outcome, you could be released on your own recognizance, required to post bond, or placed under monitoring such as house arrest.

In Raleigh and Wake County, prosecutors may request no-contact conditions or digital restrictions even prior to conviction. Without immediate intervention, these conditions can severely limit your ability to prepare your defense or resume daily life.

What Happens After Release?

After release, the legal process begins in earnest. You will be required to attend hearings and comply with all release conditions. Court appearances may include:

• Probable cause hearings
• Indictment (if the case proceeds as a felony)
• Pre-trial motions
• Trial proceedings

Your legal team will begin gathering exculpatory evidence, interviewing witnesses, and filing motions to suppress improperly obtained materials. In cases of false accusations, early defense strategies may include exposing inconsistent statements, highlighting the absence of physical evidence, or identifying ulterior motives behind the complaint. Learn how our firm addresses false claims: False Claims of Sexual Misconduct.

What Should You Do After a Sex Crime Arrest in Raleigh or Wake County?

If you’ve been arrested, your immediate steps could dramatically alter the course of your case:

• Do not speak to police. Wait for legal counsel before answering questions.
• Preserve all relevant communications. Texts, messages, and call logs may be pivotal.
• Create a written record. Document your recollection of events, names, and timelines.
• Call a criminal defense lawyer. Timing matters. A proactive legal response can influence bond, evidence handling, and even whether charges move forward at all.

Patrick Roberts has responded to dozens of early-morning calls from individuals and families who had no warning. His focus is always on protecting clients from preventable damage at this early stage.

Why Choose Patrick Roberts After a Sex Crime Arrest?

With over 20 years in North Carolina criminal law, Patrick Roberts has handled thousands of cases—many involving high-stakes, high-profile allegations. He served as a former prosecutor in Wake, Johnston, and New Hanover counties, giving him unique insight into how law enforcement and district attorneys handle these sensitive cases.

Roberts is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University and Duke University School of Law. He has also completed advanced litigation training at the National Criminal Defense College and the Gerry Spence Trial Lawyers College.

Clients rely on him not just for his legal skill, but for his steadiness in moments of crisis.

Client Testimonial

"I hired Patrick and his firm to represent me in a very sensitive and frightening case. I was able to come in for a meeting immediately and had one of the most honest conversations of my life. He was honest, direct, and kind. There was no hint of judgement from a single person on their staff. They fought for my rights in a way I've never seen. I still joke with some close friends about the prowess that man has in a court room. Not only did he fight for me, he also pointed me in the direction of people who could actually help me. His confidence, knowledge, and support led to my charges being dismissed. I will forever keep their business cards on hand, and plan to use them for any legal matters, within their purview, going forward. If you've never done this before, feel hopeless, and don't know what the next step is, please don't look any further. No matter the outcome, you can rest assured your case was handled in the best of ways with Patrick Roberts and the many powerful people he works with."

Learn more about how he has defended clients against serious accusations by visiting our Case Results page.

Facing Arrest Is Overwhelming — But You’re Not Alone

An arrest doesn’t mean your case is over. It’s just the beginning of a process that demands strong advocacy, deep legal understanding, and a defense plan built for your specific situation. Whether you’re in Raleigh, Durham, Wake County, or a surrounding region, Patrick Roberts Law stands ready to help you take control of what comes next.

To learn more about our legal approach, visit our Sex Offenses Overview page. To schedule a consultation, contact us online or call 919-746-7206 now for confidential help.