While Others Play Checkers,

We Play Chess.

The knight is more than a symbol. It reflects the way Hewlett, Collins & Allard, PLLC approaches criminal defense: with strategy, preparation, and the ability to see the next move. Like the knight in chess, strong defense requires looking beyond the obvious path, moving around obstacles, and making every decision count. When you’re facing criminal charges, timing, evidence, and preparation matter. HCA Law uses the knight as a reminder of its mission: to protect you, think strategically, and help you move forward with confidence when the stakes are high.

While Others Play Checkers,

We Play Chess.

The knight is more than a symbol. It reflects the way Hewlett, Collins & Allard, PLLC approaches criminal defense: with strategy, preparation, and the ability to see the next move. Like the knight in chess, strong defense requires looking beyond the obvious path, moving around obstacles, and making every decision count. When you’re facing criminal charges, timing, evidence, and preparation matter. HCA Law uses the knight as a reminder of its mission: to protect you, think strategically, and help you move forward with confidence when the stakes are high.

Wilmington’s Most Trusted Criminal Defense Attorney

Top-Rated Wilmington Criminal Defense Attorney with over 40 Years of Experience Helping Clients Just Like You.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 203 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Chandler Anderson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend Buddy Allard and his team. He represented me through a very serious case that lasted nearly 10 years, and from day one he was honest, transparent, and kept me informed every step of the way. His office was always responsive and answered any questions I had.

Most importantly, he achieved the best possible outcome—all charges were dismissed. I am incredibly grateful for his hard work and dedication. He gave me a second chance at life, and I cannot thank him enough.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jacqueline Rowland Carroll, PA-C, MMS 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr. Allard was both professional and personable from our very first meeting. He took the time to listen carefully, educate us on the legal process, and explain all possible outcomes.

What impressed us most was his dedication, extensive experience, and genuine passion for the law. He provided thoughtful guidance every step of the way and ensured we felt informed and supported throughout the process.

I highly recommend Mr. Allard and his legal services to anyone seeking knowledgeable, trustworthy, and exceptional legal representation.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Doug Carroll 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr. Allard went above and beyond from the first time we spoke.  He explained my situation, the good and the bad, focused on the positives and advised me to be proactive in all aspects of my case.  I needed this reality check and hard truth to motivate me to accomplish all the obstacles ahead.  His advice proved to be invaluable and the positive outcome of my case was 100% due to his skill, experience and direction.  I can not recommend Mr. Allard enough!   Thank you for an incredible job well done!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Rich 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr. "Buddy" Allard was my attorney for my criminal case in Pender County. Buddy was very honest and upfront about what to expect and going through the judicial process. He was always punctual to hearings and provided feedback and advice on recommendations on what would be in the best interest for me in my case. His experience and expertise resulted in all my charges being dismissed. Highly recommend Buddy and his firm as counsel.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   alan carr 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great people and awesome service.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Brenda Tucker 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Buddy Allard was hired to defend our daughter, Elizabeth Craver, in a highly publicized, politically motivated trial.  He was very attentive, straight forward and direct as to the complexities of the case, which we always appreciate.  The most impressive thing was after taking on the case,  within a very short period of time while in a general conversation,  he would recite dates, times, conversations and names without referring to notes or documents. It was very clear he took his work seriously and made the case “his”.  It was very apparent he was vested in his client/case and the verdict reflected that in not guilty on all charges.   Elton and Brenda Tucker
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   elizabeth craver 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot say enough good things about Buddy Allard. From the very beginning, he believed in me and stood by my side through one of the most difficult times in my life. He worked tirelessly on my case, represented me with professionalism and skill, and never stopped fighting for me all the way through trial. Because of his hard work and dedication, the jury returned a not guilty verdict on all charges.

Buddy is knowledgeable, determined, and truly cares about his clients. I am incredibly grateful for the way he handled my case and for the outcome he achieved. I would highly recommend Buddy Allard to anyone who wants an attorney who will stand up for them and fight for the best possible result.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jose Mendez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Buddy was great made me feel confident that we were gonna win the case and we did I followed all he’s advice and it work out in the the end hopefully I won’t need him again but will definitely use him again and recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mackenzie Brackin 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Buddy Allard was transparent, genuine, and committed to fighting for me and my case. He truly believed in me and winning even when the odds were against me. He won my case and immediately hugged me and talked about how happy he was for me. I couldn't recommend him enough!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Julia Kanos 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Buddy is an excellent attorney, he truly cares about his clients best interests and does the best he can to get the best possible outcome! I know he did for me!

Criminal Defense Attorney, Wilmington, NC (2)

Our Criminal Defense Attorney

James “Buddy” Allard Jr.

Hewlett, Collins & Allard, PLLC is one of Wilmington, North Carolina’s established criminal defense law firms, serving clients in criminal and traffic cases since 1982. The firm is led by James “Buddy” Allard Jr., a highly experienced Wilmington criminal defense attorney known for his work in DWI defense, serious criminal cases related to drug crimes, sex crimes, and violent crimes. He holds the 2026 Gold Client Champion designation from Martindale-Hubbell, as well as the 2026 Preeminent award. He has 200+ positive reviews across the internet.

BOOK FREE CONSULT

You Deserve Strategic Representation

Criminal Defense Services in Wilmington



DWI Defense

Defense for clients charged with DWI, underage DWI, boating while impaired, and other alcohol-related offenses in Wilmington and surrounding areas.



Breath & Blood Test Cases

Representation for clients facing charges involving breathalyzer results, blood test evidence, chemical testing procedures, or alleged refusal issues.



License Revocation & Restoration

Guidance for drivers dealing with license suspension, revocation, limited driving privileges, and restoration hearings after a DWI or traffic-related charge.



Drug Crimes Defense

Defense against drug possession, marijuana charges, heroin-related offenses, prescription drug cases, and other controlled substance allegations.



Domestic Violence & Restraining Orders

Legal representation for domestic violence charges, protective orders, restraining orders, and related criminal allegations that can affect your home, family, and future.



Sex Crimes Defense

Defense for clients accused of serious sex-related offenses, with careful attention to privacy, evidence, reputation, and the long-term consequences of a conviction.



Theft, Fraud & Property Crimes

Representation for shoplifting, theft, burglary, robbery, fraud, and other property-related criminal charges in North Carolina.



Violent Crimes Defense

Defense for serious allegations including assault, robbery, murder, manslaughter, and other violent crime charges that demand immediate legal attention.



Felonies, Misdemeanors & Trial Defense

Criminal defense for felony charges, misdemeanor offenses, federal crimes, and cases that may require strategic courtroom preparation and trial advocacy.

BOOK FREE CONSULT

Book your free consultation

Give us a call or fill out our contact form to book your completely free consultation.

BUILD A STRATEGIC DEFENSE PLAN

We review the facts, evidence, charges, and possible consequences to build your defense.

MAKE YOUR NEXT MOVE CONFIDENTLY

With a clear plan, we prepare for what comes next, and move forward with confidence.

TOP-RATED Legal Representation

Getting started is easy.

OUR MISSION IS simple.

Hewlett, Collins & Allard, PLLC is one of Wilmington, North Carolina’s established criminal defense law firms, serving clients in criminal and traffic cases since 1982. Led by James “Buddy” Allard Jr., the firm approaches every case with the same purpose behind the knight chess piece: strategic thinking, careful positioning, and the ability to anticipate the next move. From DWI and drug charges to domestic violence, theft crimes, sex offenses, violent crimes, felonies, misdemeanors, and university-related cases, HCA Law helps clients protect their rights, their reputation, and their future.

BOOK FREE CONSULT

Wilmington Attorney Near You

criminal defense faqs

Do you offer free consultations for criminal defense cases?

Yes. Hewlett, Collins & Allard offers free consultations for criminal defense matters in Wilmington, NC and the surrounding areas. During your consultation, you can discuss the charge, ask questions, and get a better understanding of what may happen next.

Can a criminal defense attorney guarantee that I will avoid jail time?

No attorney can honestly guarantee a specific result, including no jail time. Every criminal case depends on the facts, evidence, prior record, charge level, prosecutor, judge, and other factors. What a criminal defense lawyer can do is review the case carefully, challenge weaknesses in the evidence, explain your options, and work toward the best possible outcome.

What types of criminal cases does your firm handle?

HCA Law handles a wide range of criminal defense cases, including DWI/DUI, drug crimes, domestic violence, restraining orders, theft, fraud, burglary, robbery, assault, sex crimes, violent crimes, felonies, misdemeanors, federal crimes, and student-related charges.

Will I have to go to court?

Many criminal cases require at least one court appearance, but the number of appearances depends on the charge and how the case moves through the court system. An attorney can explain what to expect, help you prepare, and appear with you in court.

Can a criminal conviction affect my future?

Yes. A conviction can impact employment, professional licensing, education, housing, immigration status, driving privileges, and your reputation. That is why it is important to take any criminal charge seriously and speak with a defense attorney before making decisions about your case.

Why hire a local Wilmington criminal defense attorney?

A local Wilmington criminal defense attorney understands the local courts, procedures, prosecutors, and legal environment. Hewlett, Collins & Allard, PLLC has served clients in criminal and traffic cases since 1982, helping people throughout Wilmington and surrounding coastal North Carolina communities protect their rights and plan their next move.

When should I contact a criminal defense attorney in Wilmington, NC?

You should contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after being charged, arrested, cited, or contacted by law enforcement. Early legal guidance can help protect your rights, preserve important evidence, and prevent mistakes that could hurt your case.

What should I do if I have been arrested or charged with a crime in Wilmington?

Stay calm, avoid discussing the case with anyone other than your attorney, and do not post about the situation online. You should also avoid making statements to law enforcement without first speaking with a criminal defense lawyer.

Do you handle both felonies and misdemeanors in Wilmington?

Yes. HCA Law represents clients facing both felony and misdemeanor charges in Wilmington and nearby communities. Whether the charge is considered minor or serious, a criminal conviction can affect your record, employment, license, housing, and future opportunities.

Can a criminal charge be dismissed in Wilmington?

Some criminal charges may be dismissed, but dismissal is never automatic. A defense attorney may look for issues with the stop, arrest, search, witness statements, evidence, testing procedures, or constitutional rights. The goal is to identify every possible defense and use those issues strategically.

Do you represent college students charged with crimes?

Yes. Hewlett, Collins & Allard, PLLC represents students facing criminal charges or university-related allegations involving DWI, drugs on campus, weapons on campus, Title IX matters, and other student defense issues. These cases can affect both a student’s criminal record and academic future.

Do you handle DWI and traffic-related criminal charges?

Yes. Hewlett, Collins & Allard, PLLC handles DWI/DUI defense, breath and blood test issues, license revocation, restoration hearings, boating while impaired, and related traffic matters. These cases can involve both criminal penalties and driver’s license consequences.

Find Us Downtown

Conveniently Located in Downtown Wilmington

Hewlett, Collins & Allard, P.L.L.C. is conveniently located in downtown Wilmington, NC, making it easy for clients to access trusted criminal defense representation close to local courts, legal offices, and the heart of the city. Whether you are facing a felony, misdemeanor, sex crime allegation, violent crime charge, drug offense, domestic violence case, federal criminal matter, DWI, or traffic-related offense, the firm offers a central and accessible location for confidential guidance, strategic defense, and experienced legal support.

BOOK FREE CONSULT