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Benjamin Hiltzheimer

Criminal defense Attorney at Raleigh, NC

5.0   78 reviews

also known as Ben Hiltzheimer

Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • State Years
    North Carolina - NC 11 years
    Dist. of Columbia - DC 15 years
    California - CA 17 years
  • Licensed for 11 years
    State NC
    Acquired 2011
    Status
    Active No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 15 years
    State DC
    Acquired 2008
    Status
    Resigned No misconduct found
  • Licensed for 17 years
    State CA
    Acquired 2006
    Status
    Inactive No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Benjamin

Learn Benjamin’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    40%
    I have extensive experience defending criminal cases, from the outset of my career in Washington, DC. My firm provides thorough, aggressive representation in every case, bringing over a decade of litigation experience to our practice.

  2. DUI and DWI
    40%
    I have extensive experience litigating DWI cases in North Carolina. My firm provides thorough, aggressive representation in every case, bringing over a decade of litigation experience to our practice.

  3. Federal crime
    20%
    If you've been charged with a federal crime, you don't need just any attorney. If you trust me to handle your case, I will work tirelessly to bring my decade of litigation experience to bear on every aspect of your case.

EXPERIENCE. DEDICATION. RESULTS.

I am a North Carolina trial attorney, but began my legal career in Washington, DC, at the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia in 2006.  In my first two years at PDS, I worked in an attorney fellowship position focused on litigating complex forensics issues in serious felony cases, and also worked in partnership with the Innocence Project to develop litigation strategies to combat the leading causes of wrongful conviction in trial courts nationwide.

After two years in that concentrated role, I moved into the trial division at PDS in DC, where I was trained by some of the best defense attorneys in the country.  In 2011, I founded Hiltzheimer Law Office, PLLC in DC, and in 2012 relocated the practice to Raleigh, NC, when my family decided to make North Carolina our home.

Awards

Client's Choice 2023,2022,2021,2020,2019,2016,2015,2013
Client's Choice
2023 2022 2021 + 5 ...

Contact Benjamin

Hiltzheimer Law Office, PLLC
19 W Hargett St
#508
Raleigh, NC, 27601
Hiltzheimer Law Office, PLLC
331 W Main St
#604
Durham, NC, 27701
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Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  78 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Client's Choice 2023
Client's Choice
Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.
Posted by anonymous | May 14, 2013
If you’re in need of a lawyer who believes in justice and fights your fight like it was his own, I highly recommend Ben H.
I was arrested and charged with DWI as well as ‘Refusal’ to submit to breathalyzer test at a Booze It & Lose It checkpoint in Wake County, NC. Needless to say, it was an extremely stressful situation to deal with as I was also undergoing chemotherapy treatment for terminal cancer at the time. The absolute last thing I needed was another major, life-altering situation. I immediately contacted Benjamin Hiltzheimer & was totally impressed by his straight-forward knowledge, professionalism, empathy and compassion. He treated me with respect and always made time address my questions & concerns, which went a very long way towards alleviating my anxiety so I could focus on the priority of my health. Ben’s integrity and diligence in proving the charges were false resulted in an outcome far beyond my expectations. Both charges were dismissed. I couldn’t be more pleased and want to convey my sincere thanks and gratitude for superb representation. If you’re in need of a lawyer who believes in justice and fights your fight like it was his own, I highly recommend Benjamin Hiltzheimer.
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Posted by anonymous | August 9, 2013
I truly believe that your understanding of the DUI trial process, dedication and the way you handled the case saved me
After a low key New Year's dinner, my worst nightmare happened. While driving home I was pulled and arrested for a DWI. Having never been arrested and having only a simple speeding ticket prior, to say the least I was having major concerns and stress over what next. I have never been in the legal system in my entire life. I researched online and contacted several attorneys. Most didn't answer, some took messages, however Ben was back with me in 15 minutes. I had a lot of questions being the first time and he set up an appointment right away. After that initial interview, I knew I had my attorney. He was very detailed and supportive. He outlined clearly my next steps and spent hours working to get my case resolved. I truly felt he cared about my case. I cannot tell you enough how Ben's persistence, patience, confidence and hard work saved me. He chipped away on the case until we finally got a break with evidence and errors. I truly believe that your understanding of the DUI trial process, dedication and the way you handled the case saved me from a conviction.
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Posted by K | December 6, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
First class crimes require first class lawyers.
From NYC, finding a lawyer in a state completely unknown to me was difficult…. Until I found Ben. Out of the many lawyers practicing in North Carolina, I knew that I desperately needed Ben upon learning his track history. I wont divulge in my charges, but Ben was able to significantly and I stress, significantly reduce my charges. Minimum 5 years of jail time reduced to an unsupervised probation to a dismissed case. Ben and his team are phenomenal. You wont regret securing him to win your cases. Outstanding criminal lawyer. I highly recommend Ben Hiltzheimer.
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Posted by anonymous | December 5, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best ever lawyer for a DWI/DUI ticket!
Do not waste your time with any other lawyer! Ben has proven to be the best in town to defend me in my DUI case. Ben explores every angle to follow in your case and then decides on the best route to pursue to win your case. His knowledge, experience and professionalism make him an honest and trustworthy lawyer to defend you. Needless to say, my DUI case was dismissed, a rarity in NC. Hire him and trust him. Again, do not waste your time with other lawyers. Forever grateful, Ben!
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Posted by anonymous | October 9, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Look no further for a Legal
“Ben Hiltzheimer was a beacon of hope to me and my husband at a time when I saw my future was at stake and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed nigh on impossible. Not only was he able to defend me from an unjust accusation, his calm and empathetic demeanor offered emotional succor to myself and those I care about most. We are eternally grateful for his service and I hereby recommend Mr. Ben Hiltzheimer without reservation.”
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Posted by anonymous | September 25, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding!
I recently went through a DUI trial and was fortunate enough to have Ben representing me. From the moment I met Ben, I knew I was in good hands. His knowledge of DUI law and his approach to my case was outstanding. Ben meticulously reviewed all the evidence, identified weaknesses in the DA's case and effectively communicated the facts to the jury. It was a very long shot as it was more like and open and shut case for me. I was literally hanging by the thread for the past two years until Ben took over my case from a different attorney (who didn’t want to go to trial). Thanks to Ben my case ended with a not guilty verdict after close to two hours on trial. I must admit it was a nerve-wracking experience, but Ben’s defense calmed my nerves. He made sure that I understood every step of the process, set very realistic expectations and was always available to answer any questions I had. I couldn't have asked for a better attorney; Ben truly exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend Ben to anyone in need of a DUI defense attorney. Ben’s exceptional knowledge of the law and trial experience were the key factors that led to my not guilty verdict. I am forever grateful for him for everything he has done.
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Posted by anonymous | September 23, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Don't settle for less!
I want to extend my gratitude and appreciation for Ben Hiltzheimer, as he went beyond my expectations to handle my case and more. You’ll not find a better attorney to take care of whatever legal matter you might need. He’s the best. I’m sincerely grateful to Ben and his team for all they’ve done for me. 5 Star!!!!! Don’t settle for less.
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Posted by anonymous | September 18, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Simply Amazing team
Ben represented me in a Class A1 misdemeanor and from the outset he treated me with respect and truly listened throughout the whole process. He never pressured me into anything but made sure I understood each step. In the end he proved my innocence and helped me move on with my life.
Posted by anonymous | July 4, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professionalism at its finest
I was arrested while sleeping last in front of my apartment and charged with a dui. Ben was very informative and professional during the whole 27 month process of going back and forth to court. Ultimately my case was dismissed. I would highly recommend him to anybody arrested for dui or just in general.
Posted by D | February 17, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommend!
Ben was fantastic to work with and I couldn't be happier with the outcome. Very professional and attentive to details. Highly recommend!
Posted by Chris | February 17, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional service
If you need help and a lawyer that believes in you and justice Ben and his team are the best option. They are exceptional
Posted by anonymous | January 20, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Best Criminal Defense Attorney in North Carolina. PERIOD.
I recently had the misfortune of needing a criminal defense attorney. The entire ordeal left me shaken and terrified that my life as I knew it would be over. I called and spoke with several law firms. Only one of them stood out and that was Ben at Hiltzheimer firm. He got on the phone with me , answered my question, but more importantly he provided Answers for questions I didn’t even know I needed to ask. He was straightforward and always made sure to clearly. Communicate with me about my case. More importantly, I could tell he took the time to go over case details and paid The individual attention that my case needed. He was upfront and clear with his pricing, and made It is affordable for me to be provided with the best legal defense. Don’t risk your freedom or life on a subpar attorney. Hire the best criminal defense attorney Ben. Thank you, Hiltzheimer law firm, for keeping me safe and free!
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Posted by anonymous | January 7, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wonderful Attorney
Unfortunately I found myself in need of an attorney after being arrested for DWI. I contacted his office through his website on an early Sunday morning and was surprised when he called me the same day. He explained everything thoroughly and gave me time to decide if I wanted to move forward with him. Once I started working with him and his office they were very communicative and responsive. My case went through many continuances but Mr Hiltzheimer always gave me the opportunity to make the decisions on what we would do next. At one point the hours on my limited driving privilege were incorrectly listed and I received a citation for driving while license suspended. This occurred on a Sunday morning and after texting Mr Hiltzheimer, he called me right back from his child's soccer game and spoke with the officer. The next day he took care of the ticket I received and it was dismissed and my driving privilege hours were corrected. My case was finally coming to a close as we went to trial after over a year. Mr Hiltzheimer explained what would occur and was honest about the possibility that we would not have a favorable outcome. We went forward with a probable cause hearing first and he did an amazing job - I couldn't have asked for anything better. In the end the judge found no probable cause and my DUI was dismissed. Also he was able to get the speeding ticket that went along with it dropped down so I would not incur any points. My experience with Mr Hiltzheimer was exceptional. I hope to never find myself in need of a criminal attorney again but will definitely recommend him to anyone in need.
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Posted by Lauren | December 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
If in trouble CALL BEN!!!!
Ben was absolutely amazing! I hired him and he was with me the whole time. Even surgery didn't stop Ben from working on my case. I did not think I would get off easy for my DWI due to all factors that were involved. Ben did his due diligence. With his extensive knowledge of the law, I was found NOT GUILTY!! Ben proved to do whatever he could for my case. I am so thankful I hired him and I really see why he has so many wonderful reviews! If in trouble CALL HIM!!
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Posted by Roy | July 27, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Felonies Dismissed
After reading reviews about Ben I decided to hire him on some old felony cases I had back when I was a young man. Ben not only kept in constant contact he made it so all the charges were dismissed so I could.move on with my life. I wish I could give him a 10 star review as he went above and beyond what we had discussed. The saying is “it’s not what you know it’s who you know” Ben is the attorney you want and need to know for your case.
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Posted by Melissa | July 10, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Pleasure to Work With!
Benjamin and his team were a pleasure to work with for my recent speeding ticket (my first!) in Wake County. They responded promptly to my initial email, then kept me up-to-date throughout the process. I appreciated that they encouraged me to ask them questions so I was clear about what has going on.
Posted by anonymous | March 19, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
If you are in need of an attorney, Ben is the one!
Ben is an extremely professional & knowledgeable attorney. I personally call him the “Legal Oracle”. Ben could honestly predict things that would happen in the court room before they happened…… Thank you Ben for being there in my time of need.
Posted by Jacob Simon | March 9, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Really rare lawyer and an even more rare person!
The guy was patient and caring. Best of all, great at his job as a lawyer (well-learned and effective). But it really is something special AND NEEDED for a lawyer to actually care about his defendant. Could not recommend this guy more! Did a really dumb thing as a first offense (never again!) and he was there to help making sure I wasn't taken advantage of by the police and that everything was going to be okay (without anything on my record as well!). If I ever needed help again, I would go to him first. God bless you, Ben!
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Posted by James | January 27, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Cream if the Crop!
I had a misdemeanor case, which worried me tremendously and began researching criminal attorneys in the area to represent me- spoke to over 20 in the area. Finally spoke to Ben and was immediately convinced he was the right lawyer for me based on his shining reviews and his candid and realistic approach to resolving my case (with no guarantees) as apposed to other attorneys who were in my opinion, too aggressive in their approach prefering litigation over negotiation. Some were unreliable and difficult to keep up with while others made very rosy promises- which seemed to good to be true and were not corroborated with 2nd and 3rd opinions. Some were straight up unqualified and unprofessional. Ben managed to take up my case and got the best possible outcome anyone could expect. Highly recommend this attorney without any reservation! What you read about is what you get!
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Posted by anonymous | January 20, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended 10/10!!
I was facing jail time with a 4 year revocation of my license! Ben was with me every step of the way and worked with me to get the best possible outcome and got my charges dismissed completely. I am grateful for Ben’s professionalism, knowledge, and proficiency. Great guy! I would highly recommend 10/10!!
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Founding Attorney
  • Hiltzheimer Law Office, PLLC
  • 2011 - Present
  • Staff Attorney, Trial Division
  • Public Defender Service For The District Of Columbia
  • 2008 - 2011
  • Special Litigation/Forensics Fellow
  • Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia
  • 2006 - 2008
  • Summer Law Clerk
  • Public Justice (formerly Trial Lawyers for Public Justice)
  • 2005 - 2005
  • Law Clerk
  • Department of Justice, Environmental Enforcement Division
  • 2005 - 2005
  • Student Advocate
  • Project for Older Prisoners
  • 2005 - 2006
  • Summer Associate
  • Troutman Sanders, LLP (Formerly Mays & Valentine)
  • 2004 - 2004
  • Law Clerk
  • Department of Energy
  • 2004 - 2004
  • Volunteer Law Student
  • Bread For The City
  • 2003 - 2004
View all work experience

Education

  • The George Washington University
  • J.D.
  • 2006
  • University of Georgia
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1999
  • University of Georgia
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1999

Legal Cases

  • Client Charged with Driving While Impaired (DWI)
  • Case Dismissed
  • Client Charged with Driving While Impaired (DWI)
  • Case Dismissed
  • Client Charged with Driving While Impaired (DWI)
  • DMV Refusal Revocation: Denied following hearing; District Court Case: Dismissed.
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National College of DUI Defense
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • 10th Judicial District Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • George Washington University Law School Alumni Association
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyers List
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2023
  • Best Lawyers Recognition
  • Best Lawyers
  • 2022
  • Top 40 Lawyers Under 40
  • American Society of Legal Advocates
  • 2014
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Criminal Defense Attorney of the Month
  • Attorney At Law Magazine
  • 2014
  • Clients' Choice Award
  • Avvo
  • 2013
  • Murray Snyder Scholarship for Public Interest Work
  • The George Washington University
  • 2005
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Georgetown Prettyman New Lawyer Training
  • Litigating Eyewitness Identification Cases in Superior Court
  • 2008
  • Public Defender Service Trial Lawyer Training
  • Litigating Eyewitness Identification Cases
  • 2007
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (19)
Given (34)
Endorse Benjamin
Unknown Attorney | Feb 02
Relationship: Other
"Highly skilled and respected in the community. I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 28
Relationship: Other
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Hiltzheimer is a skilled and respected member of the legal community. He is a zealous advocate for the rights and interests of his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. A highly skilled and respected lawyer in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. An outstanding and well respected attorney in the legal community. I would recommend him wholeheartedly to anyone needing legal representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 12
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Hiltzheimer is a smart and passionate advocate for his clients. He analyzed every piece of evidence in each case and developed creative defenses time after time. I learned a great deal from him when we worked together and would refer any case to him without hesitation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Hiltzheimer consistently provides insightful and helpful advice. His knowledge and diligence are clearly evident. I endorse him without reservation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Jun 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 06
Relationship: Friend
"Ben and I met in 2003 and lived together for two years while in law school. I can attest to Ben's exceptional work ethic, dedication to thoroughness and accuracy, and professionalism. Ben has substantial experience and success in criminal defense and DWI defense. He is the lawyer that I would retain for myself if I were in need."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Our firm has and will continue to refer Ben our own clients with traffic violations. I recommend him to anyone looking for an attorney to help with such matters."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Benjamin. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 03
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Ben is a consummate professional and fearless litigator. Both bar and public are benefited by his informed advocacy."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Hiltzheimer's reputation from Washington DC should proceed him to North Carolina. I have practiced in the same courthouse as in Washington, DC for over 5 years. He is a skilled, compassionate and aggressive defense attorney. The bench, the defense bar, and prosecutors in the District respected him greatly. Our loss is North Carolina's gain."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ben is an exceptional lawyer. I worked with him for over five years at the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia, and during that time he demonstrated that he is a highly skilled and aggressive litigator who is tremendously creative, knowledgeable, and dedicated to his clients. I would definitely recommend him to any friend or family member needing representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 01
Relationship: Other
"I attended George Washington University with Ben and knew then that he was destined for a successful career as a criminal defense attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 12
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I worked and consulted with Ben on criminal defense matters since 2007. He is an extraordinarily dedicated and talented criminal defense lawyer. I highly recommend him."
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Criminal defense
Consumer protection
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Divorce and separation
DUI and DWI
Contracts and agreements
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
Raleigh Criminal defense Lawyer Benjamin Hiltzheimer
Benjamin Hiltzheimer
Criminal defense Attorney
Raleigh, NC
Licensed for 17 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available