The Outer Banks is a great place to visit with its beautiful beaches, breathtaking views of the ocean, and plenty of activities. Visitors come from all over the world for their vacation on this pristine beach. But sometimes visitors can get in trouble while they are there. In this article,…
North Carolina Criminal Law Updates
Assault Charges in NC: What is Assault?
When can the State bring Assault Charges? Whether it’s a charge for assault with deadly weapon inflicting serious injury, simple assault, or even misdemeanor assault on a female, an “assault” is an essential element to such criminal allegations. That means, for the State to prove someone guilty beyond a…
What is the Doctrine of Recent Possession?
The Doctrine of Recent Possession in North Carolina can be a bit confusing. Generally, it refers to the possession of recently stolen property. Historically, in the United States, such possession and the “doctrine” may prove relevant to determining the mens rea or the “evil mind.” It is an inference of guilt, proving criminal conduct. Sometimes…
OBX DWI CHECKPOINTS
In a published decision dated December 31, 2020, the North Carolina Court of Appeals again weighs in on DWI checkpoints in North Carolina. State v. Cobb (North Carolina vs. Deshandra Cobb) sets forth the legal standards and considerations associated with roadblocks, sobriety checkpoints, and DWI checkpoints in North Carolina. The…
Character Evidence
What does “propensity to commit a crime” mean and when is 404(b) “Character Evidence” admissible in a trial for criminal allegations? The Rules of Evidence affect the disposition of civil causes of action, such as tort claims for accidents and personal injury matters, as well as criminal charges in North…
Why Careful Attention to Detail Matters in DUI
DUI charges in North Carolina can be incredibly complex at times. The consequences of a conviction may also be devastating, involving the possibility of revocation of your license, jail time, probation, costs of court, fines, and other penalties given the unique facts and circumstances of your case. Prior to doing…
Violation of Domestic Violence Protective Orders
A violation of a DVPO in North Carolina can carry serious consequences if you’re convicted. The North Carolina criminal laws classify such offenses as upper-level, more serious misdemeanors. Defense lawyers may refer to that as an A1 misdemeanor or an “aggravated misdemeanor.” It is separate and apart from a factor…
Lawyers who handle Assault Charges on the Outer Banks
No one plans to get arrested for assault charges or spend the night (or more) in jail. Allegations of assault or “assault and battery” tend to be related to pre-existing tensions, hard feelings, and in some instances, the overconsumption of alcohol. That’s especially true when charges involve Domestic Violence issues.…
Coronavirus Update: Will my case be continued?
The North Carolina court system, like many other businesses on the Outer Banks, is taking precautions to avoid the transmission of the novel coronavirus. OBX lawyers and law firms, under the Governor’s Shelter in Place Order, are considered “essential.” “Criminal defense attorneys are officers of the court and an important…
Can I get my case continued if I’m sick?
It seems like the media can report on little else than the COVID 19 or “Coronavirus” as of late. While there are genuine concerns about how the virus will affect us, the ordinary flu is something lawyers who handle cases on the Outer Banks deal with every year. Continuances and…