Practice Areas

Legal issues usually arise at the worst possible time. I understand that you have other priorities, and that you need someone who can take care of your legal problem with the least possible disruption to you and your family. I can help you with your legal needs – and if I can’t help you, I will refer you to an attorney who can. My firm will charge you a fair rate, and will guide you through the entire process. This page explains my practice areas so you can learn more about your legal issues. Let Renita Thompkins Linville lend you a hand with your case.

Criminal Defense

Chances are, you have never been charged with a crime before. Whether you have been charged with a felony or “just” a misdemeanor, you now face a process that carries with it the possibility of real and permanent consequences. Criminal defendants often do not know how serious their own situation is. You should know that whatever the charge is, it is serious and needs to be addressed. A conviction for even a “minor” charge can lead to jail time, fines, or both. And your conviction will become part of a criminal record that can cost you employment and financial opportunities in future. Now, as never before, you need to fight to protect your rights, and you need a skilled criminal defense attorney who will stand up for you. Contact Renita Thompkins Linville for advice.

DUI/DWI

If you have been cited for DUI/DWI, you should know that the law gives serious consequences upon conviction. Drunk driving punishments are even more severe for repeat offenders in North Carolina. A DUI sentence may require you to pay a substantial fine, serve some time in jail, or both. In addition to any fines or jail time, your driver’s license may be suspended, even if it is your first offense. You will have to find alternate transportation and go through considerable effort to regain your driving privileges after a drunk driving conviction. To add insult to injury, many insurance companies will drop your motor vehicle coverage if you get a DUI. The companies that will insure you will only do so at a greatly increased premium. It is easy to see how important it is to protect your rights – and to do that, you need a lawyer who will work to stop these consequences from becoming reality. Contact me today.

Traffic Violations

Family Law—Family law matters can be emotionally draining, particularly when children are involved. Divorce, custody, and support all concern the most basic human relationships: husband and wife and parent and child. When a family law issue occurs, it is important to remember that these are legal relationships, as well as emotional bonds. You have rights and responsibilities in those relationships that will be protected or enforced by the court.

You must not let yourself be blinded by the emotions involved so that you neglect the many difficult legal issues that will arise in a family law case. If you are facing a divorce, child custody or visitation, support, or another family-related legal issue, you need expert legal assistance to protect your rights. I can make sure that you are not taken advantage of during the proceedings.

Child Custody in North Carolina

Divorce in North Carolina

Adoptions

Personal Injury—If you or someone you love has been injured, you know how complicated life suddenly becomes. At the law firm of Renita Thompkins Linville, my goal is to make at least one part of your recovery as easy as possible. When you are injured through the carelessness or recklessness of another, maybe through a car crash or other accident in North Carolina, the law says that the responsible party owes you financial compensation for your injuries, lost wages, medical expenses, and other hardships.

Your family may also have a right to compensation. I can guide you through the legal process and maximize your compensation. Whether you are hurt through a car accident, a slip and fall or a defective product, remember – you are owed this money. At this difficult time, you need to focus on your physical and mental recovery – let me take care of your legal recovery.

Probate/Estate Planning and Administration—It may be hard to think about how your family would deal with your affairs and finances after you pass away, but it is essential to do so. Estate planning allows you to impact the future by directing how you would like your property and assets distributed upon your death. Clients may chose to do this by having me help with preparing a will or establishing one of many kinds of trusts. Without proper planning, your estate could go to the government or to people who you did not choose.

At the law firm of Renita Thompkins Linville, I can assist you in making informed decisions about your estate and determine if you need a will. For existing estates, you and your family may have to go through the probate system, which allows the courts to oversee the distribution of a loved one’s assets. The probate process is easier on all involved if the correct planning has been done in advance. Let me help you with that process.

Wills in North Carolina

Real Estate—Real estate is a major investment, and can cause major headaches. If you are selling a house or buying a house or a business property in North Carolina, we can help. My firm can draft or review purchase agreements and closing documents to smooth your transaction. I can confirm that there is good title to the property and verify that there are no disputes about ownership or boundaries. I can also make certain that any transaction complies with local and state property and environmental rules, so that there are no unwelcome surprises as the deal moves forward. Additionally, I help clients with construction defects, commercial leases, and property disclosure and condition issues. For experienced real estate assistance, Renita Thompkins Linville is the attorney for you.

I understand the needs of North Carolina’s families. Find out today why my clients consistently refer their friends and families.

Renita Thompkins Linville
Attorney at Law
205 West Third Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Phone: (336) 725-0998
Fax: (336)725-1980
Email: