traffic stop

Can You Refuse to Let an Officer Search Your Vehicle?

Traffic stops can be intimidating. A law enforcement officer wants to look through your vehicle to ensure there is nothing illegal inside. Sometimes you have no choice but to allow the officer to do so. However, there are other instances in which you have the right to refuse the search.   When Can You Refuse? An […]

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woman being followed by stalker

What Constitutes Stalking in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, stalking is a very serious crime that can carry heavy legal penalties. That’s why it’s so important that you understand what constitutes stalking so that you can ensure that you avoid such behavior. There are two different types of stalking: stalking and cyberstalking.  What is Stalking? Under state law, someone is guilty […]

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bullet casings and do not cross tape

What Constitutes Assault in North Carolina?

An assault occurs when one person tries to touch another person in a violent manner without their permission. Battery results when an assault is successful. In North Carolina assault and battery are considered a single offense: assault. An assault can be a punch, slap, or push; assault can also be throwing something at someone or […]

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officers responding to domestic violence call

What to Know About Protective Orders for Domestic Violence in NC

Domestic violence is never something to be taken lightly. This also includes being unfairly accused of domestic violence since such accusations can greatly impact the life of the accused. Not only can an accusation cause great damage to your reputation, but it can also lead to a domestic violence protective order (DVPO). Here’s what to […]

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Criminal defense attorney speaking with a client

Your Employer Has Accused You of Theft: Now What?

One of the most important things that we have is our reputation. So, when an employer accuses you of theft, it can have a significant impact on your life. This is not to mention the criminal ramifications if convicted. Under North Carolina law, employee theft, or larceny, is considered a Class H felony unless otherwise […]

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Woman being stopped by police in vehicle

What if You’re Accused of a Hit and Run Accident?

When you’ve been involved in a car accident in North Carolina, it’s important that you stay at the scene of the accident to see if everyone else involved is okay and if there is any property damage. It’s also likely that you must notify the police and file a report of the accident. While most […]

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Man being put in handcuffs

Are You Being Detained or Arrested?

It’s easy for many people to confuse being detained with being arrested. However, the legal implications of these two interactions with police vary significantly.  Detainment In order for police officers to arrest you they require a certain threshold of evidence. So, what can an officer do if he or she believes that you committed an […]

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police at a scene

The Dos and Don’ts of Sobriety Checkpoints in North Carolina

While often extremely inconvenient, sobriety checkpoints are legal. But while you may not evade them, you still have certain rights. Here are the dos and don’ts of sobriety checkpoints in North Carolina. DO Stop When Asked  The Supreme Court has ruled that sobriety checkpoints are legal. Therefore, you must stop at a sobriety checkpoint if […]

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man handcuffed

5 Most Commonly Prosecuted Animal Cruelty Charges

Animals are so beloved that many people not only have them as pets but also consider them a member of the family. Sadly, not everyone shares in this kindness towards animals. Despite being illegal (and potentially including felony charges) in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, animal cruelty still occurs. Here are the […]

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