What is My Right to a Speedy Trial? You have probably heard that defendants have the right to a speedy trial, but you may be unsure what it means. The Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees all citizens the right to a speedy trial. This means that a…
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…
Consequences of DUI in North Carolina Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious charge and one that can have a negative impact on your future if you are convicted. In North Carolina, drivers aged 21 and over cannot drive with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher or…
Do I Need an Attorney for a First DWI Charge? In North Carolina, the legal limit for a driver age 21 or older is 0.08% BAC. A driver with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more is considered impaired. If you are stopped by police and the officer thinks…
Can I Appeal a Criminal Conviction in North Carolina? A state criminal conviction may seem like the worst thing that could have happened, but there may be something you can do about it. A criminal conviction does not necessarily mean that your fight to defend yourself is over. In some…
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…
What is the Pretrial Integrity Act? After you are arrested, you will go before a judge. When you are in court, you will learn the charges against you, and the judge will typically set bond. Bond means that the defendant will be allowed to stay out of jail but…
Habitual Felons in North Carolina Felonies are usually serious charges that can result in severe penalties if convicted. The penalties are designed to deter people from committing crimes in the future. Sometimes, a convicted felon commits another crime. Most states have laws in place that require stiffer penalties when someone…
Speeding Violations in North Carolina Most people have received a ticket for speeding at some point in time. Speeding is one of the most common traffic offenses. If you receive a ticket for speeding, you may wonder what it means to your driving record and whether the offense is considered…
What Should I Do After an Arrest? If you were arrested for a crime, you may be worried and afraid, especially if this is your first arrest. The legal system can seem daunting, and you may feel completely alone and terrified. You do not want to do anything that could…