Howard Cummings, Attorney

For anyone in North Carolina facing criminal charges, the importance of having an experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate legal advocate cannot be overstated. The complexities of the legal system, combined with the potential life-altering consequences of criminal convictions, demand representation that truly understands the intricacies of the law. In Raleigh, one name that stands out in the realm of criminal defense is Howard Cummings, an attorney with a remarkable career dedicated to justice. With decades of experience on both sides of the courtroom, Howard Cummings offers a unique perspective and a formidable defense for individuals navigating challenging legal waters in the Tar Heel State.

Howard Cummings is a highly respected criminal litigator based in Raleigh, North Carolina, known for his extensive experience and profound insight into the criminal justice system. What truly sets Howard apart is his nearly three decades of service as a Deputy Assistant District Attorney for Wake County. This background provides him with an unparalleled understanding of prosecutorial strategies, evidence presentation, and the inner workings of the courts. During his tenure as a prosecutor, he handled thousands of criminal matters, earning a reputation for fairness and compassion toward both victims and offenders.

Upon his retirement from the District Attorney's office in late 2018, Governor Roy Cooper bestowed upon him the prestigious fellowship in the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, a testament to his exceptional service to the state of North Carolina. Howard Cummings is also a recipient of the 2016 Gilchrist Award from the North Carolina Bar Association, which is presented annually to an outstanding prosecutor. He was inducted into the American College of Trial Attorneys in 2017, an invitation-only honor extended to trial lawyers who are unquestionably and eminently qualified and regarded as the best in their state. Since joining Tharrington Smith LLP, a respected law firm in Raleigh, Howard has continued his dedication to justice by focusing on criminal defense. His vast knowledge and compassionate approach make him a trusted advocate for his clients.

Howard Cummings practices at the conveniently located offices of Tharrington Smith LLP at 150 Fayetteville St #1900, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA. Situated in the vibrant heart of downtown Raleigh, this location offers exceptional accessibility for clients throughout the Triangle area and beyond. Fayetteville Street is a prominent and easily navigable thoroughfare, making the office readily reachable by car. Numerous parking options are typically available in the immediate vicinity, adding to the convenience for those driving. Furthermore, its central downtown position ensures excellent connectivity via public transportation, providing a flexible option for clients. Being located within such a significant and well-known building in Raleigh reflects the professional stature of the practice and offers ease of access for individuals seeking legal counsel.

Howard Cummings primarily focuses on criminal defense, leveraging his extensive background as a prosecutor to provide comprehensive and insightful legal representation. His practice areas include:

• Criminal Defense (General Practice): Providing robust defense against a wide range of felony and misdemeanor charges.
• DWI & Traffic Matters: Representing individuals accused of Driving While Impaired (DWI) and other significant traffic offenses.
• Drug Crimes: Handling cases involving various drug-related offenses, from possession to distribution and trafficking.
• Domestic Violence Offenses: Offering sensitive yet strong legal defense for clients facing domestic violence allegations.
• Criminal Law And Business Crimes Defense: Addressing complex cases that involve both criminal law and business-related offenses, such as fraud, embezzlement, and other white-collar crimes.
• Larceny & Property Crimes: Defending clients accused of theft, burglary, and other property-related offenses.
• Criminal Appeals: Assisting clients in appealing unfavorable verdicts or sentences.
• Expungement: Guiding individuals through the process of clearing eligible criminal records.
• Gun Crimes: Providing defense for offenses related to firearms.
• Internet Crimes: Handling cases involving criminal activity conducted online.
• Sex Crimes: Offering discreet and determined defense for individuals accused of sex offenses.
• Violent Crimes: Representing clients charged with violent offenses, including assault and homicide.

Howard Cummings’ practice is distinguished by several key features and highlights that make him a highly suitable choice for criminal defense in North Carolina:

• Nearly Three Decades as a Prosecutor: This is arguably his most significant feature. His 29 years as a Deputy Assistant District Attorney for Wake County provide an invaluable insider's perspective on how the prosecution builds cases, identifies weaknesses, and approaches negotiations. This unique insight allows him to anticipate opposing counsel's strategies and build stronger defenses.
• Recipient of Prestigious Awards: The Order of the Long Leaf Pine from the Governor of North Carolina and the Gilchrist Award from the North Carolina Bar Association are high honors that acknowledge his long-standing dedication and positive impact on the state's justice system.
• Fellow of the American College of Trial Attorneys: This exclusive fellowship, extended by invitation only, recognizes trial lawyers who are considered "unquestionably and eminently qualified" and among the best in their state. It speaks volumes about his trial advocacy skills and professional integrity.
• Compassionate and Fair Approach: Throughout his extensive career, Howard has been known for his fairness and compassion, treating both victims and offenders with respect. This empathetic approach can be a significant comfort to clients during incredibly stressful times.
• Extensive Courtroom Experience: Having handled thousands of criminal matters and numerous trials, Howard possesses a wealth of practical courtroom experience, essential for effectively representing clients in complex legal battles.
• Recognized by Best Lawyers: He has been consistently recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® for Criminal Defense: General Practice since 2021, further affirming his standing as a leading attorney in his field based on peer reviews.
• Comprehensive Knowledge: His career has encompassed a broad spectrum of criminal cases, from traffic matters to serious felonies, ensuring he brings deep knowledge to any case he undertakes.

While specific public promotions or special offers are not explicitly detailed for Howard Cummings' practice, it is a standard practice for many reputable attorneys, especially in criminal defense, to offer an initial consultation. This allows prospective clients to discuss their legal situation in confidence, understand the gravity of their charges, and learn about potential defense strategies without any upfront financial commitment. This initial meeting is crucial for building trust and for the attorney to assess the case's viability. It is highly recommended to contact Howard Cummings' office directly to inquire about his consultation process and any specific arrangements for new clients, as these discussions are vital for beginning the legal journey.

For those in the North Carolina region seeking highly experienced and respected criminal defense legal representation, Attorney Howard Cummings can be reached at his Raleigh office:

Address: 150 Fayetteville St #1900, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA

Phone: (919) 821-4711

Mobile Phone: +1 919-821-4711

For residents across North Carolina, especially those in the Raleigh area facing criminal charges, Howard Cummings offers an exceptionally suitable and compelling choice for legal defense. His nearly three decades as a prosecutor for Wake County provide him with an unparalleled insider's perspective, equipping him with unique insights into the prosecution's strategies and a deep understanding of the local court system. This background, combined with his transition to criminal defense, means clients benefit from an attorney who truly understands both sides of the legal equation. His numerous accolades, including the Gilchrist Award and fellowship in the American College of Trial Attorneys, are testaments to his professional excellence, integrity, and formidable trial skills. Beyond his impressive resume, Howard is known for his fairness and compassion, offering a reassuring presence during what can be a highly stressful period. For locals seeking a highly experienced, strategically insightful, and empathetic criminal defense attorney in Raleigh, Howard Cummings stands as a premier choice, dedicated to protecting their rights and achieving the best possible outcome.