Proudly Veteran Owned and Led
Peter M. Carlton
Founding Partner
Peter M. Carlton is no stranger to conflict or court.
- Service
- U.S. Marines, Staff Sergeant
- Reserve
- Navy Reserve JAG, selected 2025
- Former
- Assistant District Attorney, Wake County
- Ocean Rescue
- 120+ documented rescues
Biography
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 pursue the best possible outcome for his clients.
Beyond the office
Atlantic Beach Ocean Rescue since 2012; Head Lifeguard for the 2022 and 2023 seasons.
Client reviews
“Working with Peter and Jenn was a great experience! Peter listened to me and made me comfortable in knowing that he would try his [best] and he did. Both of them were courteous and professional all the process. No long callbacks. Excellent lawyer.”
“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.”
“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”
“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.”
Reviews reproduced from the firm’s original website; bracketed words are editorial corrections. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Also at Carlton, Hayes & Peddicord
From the Crystal Coast to the City of Oaks
Schedule a consultation with Peter.
Call the office to schedule an appointment in Goldsboro or Raleigh, or send a consultation request online.