How Bail Amounts Are Set—and Lowered—in Craven County
When someone is arrested in New Bern, the process of determining bail begins quickly. Understanding how bail is set—and whether it can be lowered—helps reduce uncertainty during a stressful time. Let’s walk through how things work in Craven County, NC.
Setting Bail at the First Appearance
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A Step-by-Step Guide to the Criminal Trial Process
Facing criminal prosecution in North Carolina is a stressful experience, especially if you do not know what to expect in your case. Understanding what happens throughout the criminal trial process can give you peace of mind and empower you to make informed decisions at each stage of the prosecution.
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What Is the Minimum Sentence for Drug Trafficking in North Carolina?
If you’re facing criminal charges for drug trafficking in North Carolina, it's crucial to understand the severity of the situation. Your freedom and future could be at risk. Drug trafficking is not just any felony charge; it's a serious one, and a conviction will result in jail time. The mandatory minimum...
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Ask the Attorney: What If I Was Charged for Something I Didn’t Realize Was Illegal?
Yes, you can be charged with a crime you didn’t know was illegal. North Carolina follows the general rule that ignorance of the law is not a defense. However, not knowing the facts of what you were doing — called a “mistake of fact” — can sometimes provide a legitimate defense, depending...
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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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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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HB 746 One Vote Away from Changing Concealed Carry Laws
The new legislation would make North Carolina one of roughly a dozen states that allow people to carry a concealed handgun without a permit.
Late last week the North Carolina House of Representatives voted to approve HB 746 which would allow citizens to carry a concealed handgun in certain places without a permit—including legislative buildings....
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