Can I refuse a field sobriety test in North Carolina?
The Tar Heel State has some of the harshest DWI penalties in the country, with a complex system of punishment levels and mandatory consequences. If convicted, you face potential jail time, hefty fines, license suspension and required substance abuse treatment. When...
How can I protect my rights if stopped for a DWI?
Imagine noticing flashing lights in your rearview mirror — your pulse quickens, and your mind races. A stop after having a few alcoholic beverages is an intimidating prospect. Whether you are dealing with the immediate pressures of interacting with law enforcement or...
License at risk: The impact of a DUI on a healthcare career
Drunk driving is a serious offense in North Carolina. If convicted, a DUI or DWI can result in financial penalties and a driver’s license suspension as well as potential prison time. For some professionals, the license to drive is not the only one at risk. In addition...
How penalties increase with each North Carolina DWI conviction
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....
Drivers may drink more on vacation
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%...
Parents: talk to your kids about underage drinking
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...
Golf carts, LSVs and drunk driving – what you need to know
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...
Factors that could aggravate your drunk driving offense
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....
3 things to avoid when facing a DWI charge
Being charged with driving while impaired (DWI) can cost you. In addition to potentially paying fines, going to prison and having an ignition interlock device in all your vehicles, you may also have limited housing, employment and education opportunities. Therefore,...
Can you get a DWI when you’re under the limit?
The legal limit for driving after consuming alcohol is generally a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08%. There are some cases in which drivers will have lower limits. For instance, commercial drivers typically have lower limits, as do drivers who are under 21 years...