What can be expunged from a criminal record in North Carolina?
Background checks happen constantly, from employment and professional licenses to housing and loans. Unfortunately, this means that people who made one mistake may find themselves reliving it repeatedly. These criminal records do not have to last forever. Expunction...
Defending against shoplifting charges in North Carolina
If you or your child is accused of shoplifting in North Carolina, you're likely feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. Retail theft allegations can carry serious consequences that extend beyond legal penalties. Understanding the charges you're...
How e-courts will affect North Carolina cases
People who have taken legal matters to court - whether civil or criminal - understand the amount of preparation and the process required to settle an issue. Nearly any legal matter includes paper-based processing systems, short deadlines and time-consuming, in-person...
What to expect when arrested in North Carolina
Most of us learn about the legal system through television and film, whether it is a courtroom drama, police procedural or focused on the defendant. The accuracy of these accounts will vary and fit a narrative arc for storytelling. In real life, it’s a series of...
Defending against accusations of breaking into someone’s home
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...
Simple assault vs. aggravated assault in North Carolina
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. ...
Someone doesn’t have to steal to face burglary charges
A burglary may seem like the most glamorous type of theft because of mainstream media depictions of the crime. People often think of burglary as a high-tech attempt to steal incredibly valuable assets. Numerous famous movies focus on high-stakes heists and make...
When can police conduct a search?
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....
There is no per se limit for prescription medication when driving
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...
If you’re a tourist on bail, can you go home?
You came to North Carolina to relax and unwind, but things got a little out of control. Maybe you got into an altercation with someone at a bar, or maybe you got caught with drugs in your pocket. Bail got you out of jail, but can it allow you to go back to your home...
