criminal defense
The Consequences of a Felony Conviction in North Carolina
A felony is a crime, typically involving violence, that is seen as more severe than a misdemeanor. In North Carolina, felonies are divided into 10 different classifications, which don’t all have hard set rules for punishments. Sentences for felonies can range from death or life imprisonment to fines, probation, or community service. Beyond sentencing, the impact…
Read MoreCriminal Summons vs. Warrants for Arrest in NC
Being served in NC can have a serious impact; in this post, we’re breaking down the difference of criminal summons vs warrants for arrest. North Carolina is a unique state which allows local judicial officials to issue citizen-initiated warrants. This means that a citizen can go down to a local Magistrate for example, explain to them…
Read MoreClients Ask: How Do I Remove a Dismissed Case From My Record in NC?
One question we often get from clients after getting their cases dismissed is, how will this affect my record? Will a background check reveal I was arrested? Will the charges show up when I go to rent property? The short answer is usually yes, the arrest and charges would still appear. The follow up question,…
Read MoreNorth Carolina Expungement Law & What It Means For You
This post was updated June 13, 2019. In 2017, Gov. Roy Cooper signed the North Carolina expungement law that made it easier for people to have their criminal record expunged if they have been convicted of and served time for nonviolent crimes and have proven they can stay out of trouble with the law. Criminal…
Read MoreShoplifting Laws in North Carolina
A shoplifting charge, or conviction, on your record often has far-reaching consequences, beyond what happens in the courthouse. This type of offense is known in the legal world as a “crime of moral turpitude.” Since shoplifting is associated with low morality, opportunities can be limited when applying for college, a job, or a new apartment…
Read MoreDrug Paraphernalia Laws in North Carolina
Being charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia is a serious offense, and also one that bewilders many defendants. How can someone be charged with a drug crime when no illegal drugs are actually found? And how can it be against the law to possess items that are legally available for purchase in stores?
Read MoreMajor League Baseball Adopts New Domestic Violence Policy
In the wake of recent disciplinary troubles in domestic violence cases involving NFL players, Major League Baseball recently adopted a new policy regarding instances of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. Under the new policy, MLB players can be suspended, with pay, while such criminal charges are pending. The league may also issue suspensions…
Read MoreI have been charged with a crime or am under investigation and police are telling me it will be better for me if I just tell them what happened. What should I do?
You should never talk to the police without first consulting an attorney. Contrary to what the police officer may say, his interests and your interests are polar opposite. His job is to gather evidence that the DA can use to convict you. Can’t it be helpful to talk to the police? There is no way…
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