Kurtz & Blum

Kurtz & Blum: Criminal Defense and Family Law in Raleigh

Kurtz & Blum is a law firm based in Raleigh, North Carolina, that works with a collaborative approach: every case benefits from the knowledge and dedication of the entire legal team, not just a single professional. The firm handles criminal defense, family law, domestic violence, and DWI/DUI defense matters, and presents itself as a trusted team for individuals and families in Raleigh, Wake County, and other areas.

The firm states that its team brings together award-winning attorneys with more than 50 years of combined experience and that it has been operating since 1998. Its approach combines clear, realistic advice with firm advocacy, with strategies tailored to each case and the ability to litigate in Raleigh courts.

Practice Areas

The firm's work is organized into four main areas: family law, criminal defense, DWI/DUI, and traffic tickets. Within each, the firm details a broad catalog of services and case types.

Family Law

This includes divorce and separation—contested, uncontested, and other types—legal separation (bed & board) and separation agreements. It also covers prenuptial agreements, alimony and spousal support, child support according to North Carolina guidelines, equitable distribution of property and debts, legal and physical custody, visitation, non-parent custody—such as grandparents—adoption (step-parent, agency, and independent), domestic violence and 50B protective orders, and affidavit of parentage.

Criminal Defense

The firm handles drug-related offenses (simple and felony possession, trafficking with weight-based mandatory minimums, controlled substances according to North Carolina schedules, prescription fraud, and college drug charges), violent crimes (assault, homicide, robbery and burglary, domestic violence, child abuse, kidnapping, and vehicular manslaughter), sex crimes (sexual assault, first- and second-degree rape, statutory rape, indecent liberties with a minor, child exploitation, solicitation, sex offender registry), white-collar and federal crimes (embezzlement, state and federal tax evasion, federal crimes, extortion), juvenile defense, felony and misdemeanor charges, vandalism, and property damage. It also offers guides on what to do when facing police, when to seek a lawyer, turning yourself in, sentencing and consequences, expunging your record, and plea bargains.

DWI/DUI and Traffic

In the DWI/DUI area, the firm explains its defense method, first steps after a charge, alternatives to jail, penalties by level, limited driving privileges, DMV hearings, field sobriety tests, police checkpoints, breath and blood testing technology, and appeal options. Regarding traffic tickets, it covers speeding—including school and work zones—stop sign and red light violations, license revocations and suspensions, limited driving privileges, PJC (Prayer for Judgment), special issues for CDL drivers, possible dismissals, drivers under 21, insurance impact, and the question of whether to hire a lawyer or appear in court.

Legal Team

The team includes Howard A. Kurtz and Seth A. Blum, founding partners; Jared Hammett, Director of the Civil Division; Chuanita Williams Smalls, Senior Family Law Attorney; and Colby Berry and Will Shuford, criminal defense attorneys. The firm emphasizes that each professional brings a distinct approach, from litigation to strategic negotiation, and that the team as a whole helps assign the most suitable attorney based on the case's needs. The page also features Augustus "Augie" McFluffin Kurtz, known around Raleigh as the "Law Dog," as part of the team.

Approach and Track Record

Kurtz & Blum presents itself as a firm that combines extensive experience, honest advice, and strategic representation, with the ability to defend in Raleigh courts at all stages of the process. The firm highlights its commitment to technology in legal practice and maintains sections for client and peer testimonials, as well as a blog with analysis on criminal defense, family law, domestic violence, and DWI/DUI in North Carolina.

Location and Contact

Phone: (919) 832-7700 · Email: info@kurtzandblum.com