Imagine going about your day when a police officer shows up at your door, informing you that you’ve been charged with a crime. The shock is palpable: you never thought your actions were illegal. It's important to remember that the law is complex, and it's not realistic for the average citizen...
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Criminal Charges for Interfering with a Custody Agreement
When parents share child custody with another person, communicating and complying with court orders is not just important, it's crucial. A parent may try to hurt another parent by disrupting their right to visit the child, which is known as custodial interference. This is a serious matter, as when a parent interferes...
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Ask the Attorney: Should I Give Police Consent to Search My Car, Home, or Person?
You've been driving along, and suddenly, you see flashing blue lights in your rear view mirror. Being pulled over by a police officer can be jarring, and you may be wondering if you should give the officer consent to search your car. Perhaps you are relaxing at home when you hear a...
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Understanding Probable Cause for Car Searches
As citizens and drivers, it's crucial to understand probable cause for car searches. Police officers cannot pull drivers over randomly and search their vehicles. Instead, they must reasonably suspect that the driver may have violated a law. Probable cause requires even more evidence that the driver has violated a law or is...
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What Shows Up in Your Record After an Arrest?
A criminal conviction can follow you for the rest of your life. The collateral consequences of a criminal record can be far-reaching. You may have trouble getting a job or renting a home, depending on the specific criminal charges on your record. Our North Carolina criminal defense lawyers discuss what appears...
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Ask the Attorney: What Happens After an Arrest Warrant Is Issued?
An arrest warrant, also known as a warrant for arrest, is an order issued by a court that directs law enforcement officers to take a person into custody. It is issued when there is probable cause to believe the person committed a crime. Courts may also issue an order for arrest for...
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Will My Insurance Rates Go Up?
The first thought that pops to mind when you see those lights flashing in your review is always, ‘will my insurance rates go up?’ It’s the last thing you need on your plate, right? Many people feel like trying to fight a ticket is an uphill battle. That can be true. But,...
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Can I Contest a Parking Ticket if I Believe It Was Wrongly Issued?
Finding a place to park in any town requires patience, and returning to your car to find a ticket can be very frustrating – especially if you were not parked illegally. Sometimes parking citations are wrongfully issued. The good news is you can contest any parking ticket, although you will have to...
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Refusing a Breathalyzer: Your Rights and the Potential Consequences
Being pulled over by a police officer can be an intimidating experience. If you are pulled over for suspected drunk driving, it's crucial that you understand your legal rights. The results of a breathalyzer test could lead to a DWI conviction.
Can you refuse a breathalyzer test as a...
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Can I Refuse to Let an Officer Search My Vehicle?
When you're pulled over by a law enforcement officer in North Carolina, it's essential to be aware of your rights. One common question that arises is whether you can refuse a vehicle search by a police officer. Understanding this legal process can help you navigate such situations more confidently.
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