What are Mitigating Factors in Criminal Sentencing? After a person has been found guilty or pleads guilty to a crime, the next step is sentencing. The law generally provides guidelines that the judge will use as a starting point for the sentence. Punishment often includes a combination of jail time,…
Restraining Orders A restraining order is a legal order that prohibits an individual from having contact with someone else. A restraining order may also be called a protective order or a no-contact order. A protective order may be temporary or permanent. Once in place, a violation of a protective order…
What are Violent Crimes in North Carolina? Being charged with a crime can be frightening, but if you are charged with a violent crime, it can make the situation even more difficult. Violent crimes are generally more serious than other crimes, and if convicted, the sentences are usually severe. It…
Marijuana Possession Charges in North Carolina Marijuana use is becoming more accepted across the country. Some states have decriminalized marijuana in some circumstances. Marijuana is a controlled substance, and possession is still a federal crime and a crime in the state of North Carolina. Generally, simple possession of a small…
New License Plate Reader Program Takes Effect in 2024 More and more police departments are using automated license plate readers to assist them with law enforcement. There has been controversy surrounding the use of these devices and concern about what law enforcement does with the data. In Charlotte, for instance,…
Is Speeding a Traffic Offense or a Crime? If you get pulled over for speeding, you may think that you will simply get a warning or, at worst, a traffic citation. A traffic ticket will cause you to pay a fine, and you will also accumulate points on your license.…
What is the Kia Challenge? Social media is a daily way of life for most people. People of all ages use social media on a regular basis. Some social media sites are more popular than others. Among people in their teens and twenties, TikTok is likely one of the most…
Five Ways to Help Win Your Criminal Case Having criminal charges filed against you can create one of the most stressful situations of your life. Whether you are charged with a serious felony or a minor misdemeanor, the consequences could be serious. If you are found guilty of a crime, you…
Robbery Vs. Burglary: What is the Difference? Theft is a common crime in North Carolina and across the country. Theft is the taking of property that does not belong to you. A person may be charged with theft if they are accused of stealing items from a store, taking a…
What is the Difference Between Detainment and Arrest? If you watch any of the reality police shows on television, you may notice that police sometimes place people in handcuffs rather quickly. Sometimes they tell the person that they are not being arrested, but instead are being detained. You may wonder…