When you see those flashing lights in your rearview mirror and an officer signals you to pull over, your heart might skip a beat, especially if they suspect impairment and decide to conduct a sobriety test. Among the various methods employed by law enforcement to assess impairment, the walk and turn test is a very common DWI field sobriety test in North Carolina. Its purpose? To evaluate an individual’s balance, coordination, and ability to follow directions—all critical faculties that can be compromised under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This guide aims to delve into the specifics of t ..read more

The alarming rise in hit-and-run incidents raises pressing questions for criminal defense lawyers about the psychology underlying why certain drivers fail to stop and render aid.  From a fleeting moment of panic to a calculated decision to evade consequences, the decision to flee to elude criminal charges reflects a troubling intersection of personal, societal, and situational factors.  The literature reveals that young males, frequently under the influence of alcohol or drugs, are potentially the predominant group of offenders.   The post The Psychology of Hit and Run app ..read more

What are the direct consequences of a guilty plea?  In State of North Carolina v. Luis Fernando Saldana, the Court of Appeals of North Carolina examines the appeal of Luis Fernando Saldana against the trial court’s order denying his motion to withdraw a guilty plea entered in 2005.  This case provides a complex scenario involving immigration consequences of a guilty plea, the procedural aspects of withdrawing a plea, and the interpretation of legal standards pertinent to such motions. The post Can you withdraw a guilty plea for manifest injustice? appeared first on Carolina Law Blog ..read more

The aftermath of a DWI conviction in North Carolina reaches far beyond the courtroom’s walls. For many, it’s not just about the immediate fines or even the potential for a permanent record; it’s about the ripples it sends through every facet of life. From employment aspirations to personal relationships, a DWI conviction can cast a long shadow. The post Collateral Consequences of a DWI Conviction in North Carolina appeared first on Carolina Law Blog ..read more

A DWI charge in Charlotte can be intimidating. Most people understand the potential consequences are serious but aren’t quite certain about the specifics and what that really means. If that’s you, it’s OK.  That’s normal. If you’ve been accused of “drunk driving,” you likely have questions such as: The post The Role of Restorative Justice and Rehabilition in DWI Charges appeared first on Carolina Law Blog ..read more

Upcoming changes to the way bond is set, and the pretrial release process, have captured the attention of criminal defense lawyers in North Carolina.  Who will now set the terms and conditions of pretrial release, particularly in relation to DWI (Driving While Impaired) cases, and the process of determining release from jail, will be significantly different in the near future. This initiative, known as the “Pretrial Integrity Act,” brings about marked changes in how bonds are determined and outlines who has the authority to establish the terms and conditions for release from custody for ..read more

A traffic stop can be a moment filled with uncertainty.  It’s natural to feel anxiety when you see flashing blue lights in your rearview mirror.  However, understanding your legal rights can transform this nerve-wracking experience. Coupled with some advance preparation, such as having key documents readily available, you can confidently navigate the situation and ensure your rights are protected. The post Navigating the Nuances of Traffic Stops in NC: A Legal Perspective appeared first on Carolina Law Blog ..read more

Wiretapping is a complex and sensitive area of the law that requires an in-depth review of the relevant statutes and an awareness of your rights. At the Powers Law Firm, we understand the importance of your privacy in wiretapping cases and are committed to ensuring that our clients receive legal advice they can trust. This guide provides an overview of wiretapping laws, their implications, and how they may impact your case. What is Wiretapping? Wiretapping involves the interception of electronic communications, such as phone calls, text messages, and emails, without the consent of at least on ..read more

Domestic violence is a serious and complex issue that affects many families in Union County, North Carolina. Facing domestic violence charges can be emotionally and legally challenging, especially given the potential ramifications on both the criminal and civil fronts. It makes sense to retain a law firm with substantial experience in both criminal defense and civil Domestic Violence (DV) law to navigate the intricacies of these cases effectively. That’s especially true if you’re married or have children in common. A 50B / Domestic Violence Protective Order, or “DVPO,” can substantially affec ..read more

If you get pulled over for suspicion of DUI, law enforcement will likely administer a series of field sobriety tests to determine your level of impairment, if any. The most common sobriety tests police officers administer are divided into three categories: physical coordination tasks, mental acuity assessments, and eye examinations. Physical coordination tasks may include things like walking heel to toe in a straight line and standing on one leg for a certain period of time. The post DUI Sobriety Tests: What You Need to Know appeared first on Carolina Law Blog ..read more