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...
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...
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...
Defenses to driving too fast for the road conditions
Getting pulled over for speeding is a frustrating experience, but it can be even more frustrating when it seems like the ticket is based more on the officer’s opinion than hard facts. It’s illegal in North Carolina to drive “at a speed greater than is reasonable and...
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....
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....