When facing accusations of breaking into someone’s home, handling the situation with utmost care is crucial. The consequences of such allegations can be severe and should, therefore, not be underestimated. One of the most important steps in building a defense is understanding the accusations against you. This requires analyzing the specific details of the alleged break-in, including the time, location and circumstances surrounding the incident. Analyzing evidence, such as witness statements, surveillance footage or physical evidence, can help you better understand the situation. Asserting inno ..read more

In North Carolina, it is illegal to drive while visibly impaired by alcohol or when someone’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) goes over the legal limit. Driving while impaired (DWI) charges can lead to a variety of penalties after a guilty plea or conviction. Oftentimes, someone who has been accused of a DWI offense may be a regular drinker. They may enjoy going out on the weekend with friends or may even struggle with a substance abuse disorder. It is quite common for someone accused of one DWI to eventually get arrested again for a similar offense. The penalties for North Carolina DWIs inc ..read more

Not everyone drinks alcohol when they go on vacation. In one study, just over 27% of people claimed they don’t drink. Another 19.6% said they would sometimes drink on vacation but would sometimes let a trip be alcohol-free. All that being said, the majority – at 53.2% – said that they always drink when they go on vacation. It also depends on where the study was conducted. In some areas, the total was as high as 64%. Either way, it’s clear that drinking and vacations tend to go hand-in-hand for many people. Does the type of drink matter? Interestingly, cocktails are the most common type of drin ..read more

Here in North Carolina, lawmakers and courts take a very dim view of underage drinking. In fact, our state enforces a zero-tolerance policy for those accused of the crime. According to NC Law 18B, those under 21 charged with possessing, drinking, buying or attempting to buy alcohol face conviction on a Class 1 misdemeanor. It is also a crime to possess and distribute fake identification cards or allow someone else to borrow their legitimate ID or driver’s license. But wait — there’s more While it is a crime to have alcohol while under 21, if that young person then gets behind the wheel of a ca ..read more

The main difference between simple assault and aggravated assault is the severity and intent of the act. Both assault charges involve causing fear or physical harm to someone else.  The consequences and nature of the assault determine how the crime is classified.  Simple assault: Basic elements Simple assault is a less severe form of assault and often involves minor physical contact or threats that lead a person to genuinely fear imminent bodily harm. Examples include a shove in a heated argument and verbal threats of violence. While it may not result in severe physical harm, the cou ..read more

In parts of North Carolina, particularly in retirement communities and beach towns, golf carts and low-speed vehicles (LSVs) are everywhere. They’re also widely used in large resorts to allow people to get to secluded bungalows, restaurants and other locations on the property. While golf carts are typically intended to remain on golf courses, LSVs, which can go faster, are treated more like other vehicles under North Carolina law. Unlike a golf cart, an LSV has a vehicle identification number (VIN). They require more safety features and can only be operated by those with a valid driver’s licen ..read more

Certain circumstances can intensify the seriousness of your DUI (driving under the influence) charge, leading to more severe consequences or penalties. These aggravating factors are crucial in determining the extent of legal repercussions you may face if convicted. For instance, aggravating factors in your case can ramp up the offense from a misdemeanor to a felony. Sometimes, the court must abide by minimum mandatory sentences stipulated by law. Below are some common factors that can aggravate your DUI offense in North Carolina. A high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level Operating a vehic ..read more

Law enforcement officers play a critical role in maintaining public safety, and conducting searches is a necessary part of their duties. These searches must adhere to certain legal principles, primarily those established by the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.  Below are some circumstances under which police officers can legally conduct a search. With a warrant The most straightforward circumstance when an officer can conduct a search is when they have a search warrant issued by a judge. A warrant is granted when there’s probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed ..read more

Those accused of impaired driving in North Carolina face several very significant penalties. A conviction could result in jail time, big fines and also the suspension of someone’s driver’s license. Yet, those who regularly drink aren’t the only ones at risk of impaired driving charges under North Carolina law. Police officers can arrest those who are under the influence of drugs, including prescription medication. Obviously, those driving after consuming prohibited substances like heroin or methamphetamine might face criminal charges if they get caught. What fewer people realize is that many p ..read more

The situation can be stressful and scary if you are arrested for a drug crime. However, North Carolina § 90-96 offers a conditional discharge for first-time offenders facing certain charges. To take advantage of this, you must know the requirements and meet the qualifications. Learn more about what these are here.  Qualifying for a conditional discharge To qualify for the conditional discharge, you must meet certain requirements. These include the following: No prior felony convictions Current charges must be a first-time nonviolent drug offense Completion of substance abuse assessment an ..read more