Peter M. Carlton, Esq. | Carlton & Hayes

Proudly Veteran Owned and Led

Peter M. Carlton,
Founding Partner

Peter M. Carlton is no stranger to conflict or court.

Before becoming an attorney, Peter served as an enlisted member of the United States Marines. Peter occupied a variety of roles, from Combat Engineer to Rescue Swimmer, and concluded his service as a Staff Sergeant. Peter is still active with the Armed Forces and, in 2025, was selected to serve as a Judge Advocate General (JAG) for the Navy Reserves, a role that he still proudly occupies.

Peter previously worked in consumer finance, advocating on behalf of clients in both Superior and Federal Court. Peter then represented the State of North Carolina as an Assistant District Attorney in Wake County before opening his own criminal defense practice.

Peter has been involved with the Ocean Rescue Team for the Town of Atlantic Beach since 2012 and was the Head Lifeguard for the 2022 and 2023 seasons. During his time with the Atlantic Beach Ocean Lifeguard team, Peter has amassed over 120 documented rescues. In 2015, Peter was jointly awarded the Rescue of the Year Award.

As a Criminal Defense Attorney, Peter draws on his past experiences to fight for his clients with integrity and determination. Whether you have a. pending traffic ticket or a DWI, Peter Carlton stands his ground to ensure the best possible outcome for his clients.

A. Hardee

"Working with Peter and Jenn was a great experience! Peter listened to me and made me comfortable in knowing that he would try his for and he did. Both of them were courteous and professional all the process. No long callbacks. Excellent lawyer"

H. Rohan

"Huge thank you to Peter. Damn good attorney but even a better man. He understood my case but also my situation. He made sure my outcome was what I was looking for and made sure he didn’t rinse my pockets in the process. 3 felonies? Gone. Thank you, Peter."

M. Saine

"Thank you Mr Peter Carlton, for a phenomenal help you have done for me. I was so worried disturbed and angry, but you solved my problem. May God the Almighty continue to watch over you. I am super pleased and satisfied with your service, and I will spread your service everywhere. Thanks Margaret 🙏🙏🙏🙏"

C. Brooks

"Peter is amazing, always on time. Communicates honestly. He’s very professional and a stand up man of character. I’ll use him for any and all future needs."