Category: Criminal Defense

In today’s digital age, social media is an integral part of daily life for many individuals in Beaufort and across North Carolina. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat allow people to connect, share experiences, and express opinions. However, these platforms also pose significant risks, especially when it comes to criminal cases. It’s important to understand the implications of social media in legal proceedings and how it can impact your defense. Here, we explore whether social media can be used against you in a criminal case in Beaufort and what you can do to protect yourself. 

The Role of Social Media in Criminal Cases

Social media can provide a wealth of information that may be used as evidence in criminal cases. Posts, photos, videos, comments, and even private messages can be scrutinized and presented in court. Here are some ways social media can impact your case: 

1. Evidence of Criminal Activity

Social media posts may inadvertently provide evidence of criminal activity. Photos or videos depicting illegal actions, admissions of guilt in posts, or location tags placing you at the scene of a crime can all be used against you. Even seemingly innocent posts can be interpreted as incriminating, so it’s crucial to consider the potential implications of your online activity.

2. Inconsistencies in Statements

Prosecutors may use social media to identify inconsistencies in statements made by the defendant. If your online activity contradicts statements made to law enforcement or in court, it can damage your credibility and weaken your defense. 

3. Character Assessment

Social media can also be used to assess your character. Posts depicting reckless behavior, drug use, or associations with criminal elements can negatively influence the perception of your character in court. Prosecutors may use this information to paint an unfavorable picture of you, impacting the outcome of your case. 

Legal Considerations in North Carolina

In North Carolina, the admissibility of social media evidence depends on several factors. Courts must determine whether the evidence is relevant, authentic, and not overly prejudicial. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Relevance

Social media evidence must be relevant to the case at hand. It should have a direct connection to the alleged crime or be necessary to establish facts pertinent to the case. The court will assess whether the evidence is likely to affect the case’s outcome and contribute to a fair trial. 

2. Authentication

Courts require proper authentication of social media evidence. This involves verifying that the evidence is genuine and accurately represents the online content. Authentication can be achieved through metadata analysis, witness testimony, or expert verification, ensuring the evidence’s integrity before it is admitted. 

3. Privacy Concerns

While social media is often considered public, privacy concerns may arise in certain situations. Courts will consider whether the evidence violates your reasonable expectation of privacy and adhere to privacy laws governing digital content. However, publicly accessible posts are generally fair game in legal proceedings.

Protecting Yourself from Social Media Risks

Given the potential legal risks, it is essential to be cautious about your social media activity, especially if you are facing criminal charges. Here are some steps to protect yourself: 

1. Be Mindful of What You Post

Avoid posting anything that could be interpreted as incriminating or damaging to your case. Even seemingly innocent posts can be taken out of context and used against you. Exercise discretion and think twice before sharing information online. 

2. Strengthen Privacy Settings

Review and adjust your privacy settings to limit who can see your posts and personal information. Restrict access to your social media accounts to trusted friends and family members, reducing the risk of unwanted scrutiny. 

3. Avoid Discussing Legal Matters

Refrain from discussing legal matters or details of your case on social media. Conversations about your case can be misinterpreted and used against you. Instead, communicate with your attorney privately to discuss case-related matters.

4. Preserve Evidence

If social media evidence may be relevant to your defense, work with your attorney to preserve it. Screenshots, metadata, and other digital evidence should be carefully documented and retained for potential use in court. 

The Attorneys at Hancock Law Firm, PLLC Help Those in North Carolina Who Have Been Charged with a Crime

Social media is a powerful tool that can significantly impact criminal cases in Beaufort and beyond. Being aware of how your online activity can be used against you is crucial for safeguarding your legal rights. 

At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, we specialize in criminal defense and understand the nuances of social media evidence. If you are facing charges and have concerns about your social media activity, contact us for guidance and representation. Let us help you navigate the complexities of criminal law and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Your home is your sanctuary, a place where you should feel safe and protected. However, if faced with an intruder or threat to your safety within the confines of your own home, you may wonder what legal recourse you have to protect yourself and your loved ones. In North Carolina, the Castle Doctrine, also known as the Castle Law, provides legal protection for individuals who use force, including deadly force, to defend their homes.

What is the Castle Law?

The Castle Doctrine is a legal concept that allows individuals to use force, including lethal force, to defend their homes from intruders or threats of violence without fear of prosecution or civil liability. The name “Castle Doctrine” is derived from the saying “a man’s home is his castle,” emphasizing the fundamental right of individuals to protect their homes and families from harm.

Key Provisions of the Castle Law in North Carolina

In North Carolina, the Castle Doctrine is codified under state law and provides specific legal protections for homeowners. Here are some key provisions of the Castle Law in North Carolina:

• No Duty to Retreat: Under the Castle Doctrine, individuals have no duty to retreat from their homes before using force, including deadly force, against an intruder. This means that homeowners are not required to attempt to flee or retreat from a threat before defending themselves within the confines of their own home.
• Presumption of Reasonableness: If a homeowner uses force, including deadly force, against an intruder in their home, there is a legal presumption that their actions were reasonable and justified. This presumption places the burden on the prosecution to prove that the homeowner’s use of force was unreasonable under the circumstances.
• Protection from Civil Liability: In addition to criminal immunity, the Castle Law also provides protection from civil liability for homeowners who use force to defend their homes. This means that homeowners cannot be sued for damages by intruders or their families if force was used lawfully and in self-defense.
• Scope of Protection: The Castle Doctrine applies not only to the interior of the home but also to other areas considered part of the “castle,” such as attached garages, porches, and curtilage (the area immediately surrounding the home).

When Does the Castle Doctrine Apply?

The Castle Doctrine applies in situations where a homeowner reasonably believes that the use of force, including deadly force, is necessary to prevent imminent death, serious bodily harm, or a forcible felony. However, it’s essential to understand that the Castle Doctrine does not give homeowners carte blanche to use lethal force indiscriminately. The use of force must be proportionate to the threat faced and reasonable under the circumstances.

The Attorneys at Hancock Law Firm, PLLC Help Those in North Carolina Who Have Employed Self-Defense

While the Castle Doctrine provides valuable legal protections for homeowners in North Carolina, navigating the complexities of self-defense laws can be challenging. If you have questions about your rights under the Castle Law or if you’ve been involved in a situation where force was used in self-defense, it’s crucial to seek legal guidance from an experienced attorney.

At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, our criminal defense lawyers fully understand what is at stake and will do everything that we can to help you. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!

In North Carolina, as in many other states, the law allows individuals to defend themselves and others in certain situations where deadly force is deemed necessary. This legal concept is known as justified homicide or self-defense. However, understanding when and how justified homicide applies is crucial to avoiding legal repercussions and ensuring justice is served. Here’s what to know about justified homicide in North Carolina.

Understanding Justified Homicide

Justified homicide, also referred to as self-defense, is a legal defense that can be invoked when a person uses deadly force to protect themselves or others from imminent harm. North Carolina law recognizes the fundamental right of individuals to defend themselves and others from unlawful aggression.

Stand Your Ground Law

North Carolina follows a “stand your ground” law, which means individuals are not required to retreat from a threat before using deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent death, serious bodily harm, or a forcible felony. This law allows individuals to defend themselves in places where they have a lawful right to be without fear of prosecution.

Castle Doctrine

In addition to the stand your ground law, North Carolina also has a castle doctrine, which applies specifically to self-defense within one’s own home, vehicle, or workplace. Under the castle doctrine, individuals have no duty to retreat and may use deadly force against intruders if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent imminent death, serious bodily harm, or a forcible felony.

Requirements for Justified Homicide

For a homicide to be considered justified under North Carolina law, certain criteria must be met:

1. Imminent Threat: The threat of death, serious bodily harm, or a forcible felony must be imminent and unavoidable. In other words, there must be an immediate danger that cannot be reasonably avoided or defused by other means.

2. Reasonable Belief: The person using deadly force must have a reasonable belief that such force is necessary to protect themselves or others from the imminent threat. This belief is assessed based on what a reasonable person in the same situation would perceive.

3. Proportionality: The level of force used must be proportionate to the threat faced. Deadly force should only be used when there is no reasonable alternative and when lesser means of defense would be insufficient to stop the threat.

Legal Consequences

If a homicide is deemed justified under North Carolina law, the person who used deadly force is not subject to criminal prosecution or civil liability for their actions. However, it’s essential to understand that each case is unique, and the determination of whether a homicide is justified depends on the specific facts and circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Attorneys at Hancock Law Firm, PLLC Help Those in North Carolina Who Have Employed Self-Defense

If you have been involved in a situation where deadly force was used in self-defense or defense of others, it’s crucial to seek legal guidance from an experienced attorney familiar with North Carolina’s self-defense laws. A skilled attorney can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and ensure that your actions are properly justified under the law.

At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, we fully understand what is at stake and will do everything that we can to help you. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney, contact us today!

A criminal record can get in the way of achieving many things. That’s why individuals with criminal records often explore the option of expungement, which can provide a fresh start and a chance to rebuild their lives. However, it’s important to understand that not all felonies are eligible for expungement. 

An expungement is the legal process of erasing or sealing a criminal record, allowing individuals to move forward without the stigma of their past transgressions. This can be lifechanging for those who have rehabilitated themselves and are eager to rejoin society as responsible, law-abiding citizens. Expungement can help restore privacy and provide opportunities that were previously denied due to one’s criminal history.

How Does Expungement Help?

Having your felony expunged from your record can help improve your life in many ways:

Privacy

One of the biggest reasons that people seek to expunge their felony record is to protect their privacy. Since criminal records can be accessed by the public, this means that everyone from potential landlords to future employers can see them. By expunging your record, your past will not prevent you from succeeding in your future.

Employment Opportunities 

A criminal record will undoubtedly influence potential employment. Many employers conduct background checks, which will look at your criminal past. If your background check reveals a felony, you will likely be disqualified from the pool of candidates – regardless of your skills or how much you’ve turned your life around. Expunging your record can afford you the opportunity to a fair chance of securing employment. 

Higher Education 

Some criminal convictions can even prevent individuals from certain scholarships, financial aid, or even admission to institutions. This makes it increasingly difficult for them to obtain higher education in the process of turning their life around. By expunging a criminal record, it reinstates the access to achieving educational goals. 

Reputation

One of the biggest things impacted by a criminal record is your reputation. There is no price that can be placed on your reputation, and it can be easily tarnished. By expunging a criminal record, you can improve your reputation and be judged on what you are and will do, not on the mistakes that you have made in the past. 

Which Felonies Can’t Be Expunged?

Although expungement can be lifechanging, there are certain felonies that North Carolina will not allow to be expunged. These felonies include:

• First-degree murder
• Certain sex offenses
• Violent crimes

These are generally ineligible for expungement. 

There’s no doubt that expungement in North Carolina provides individuals with the opportunity to start over, take back their reputation, and establish personal privacy. This in turn allows them to obtain higher education, more jobs, and improved housing. 

The Attorneys at Hancock Law Firm, PLLC Help Those in North Carolina Who Wish to Have Their Criminal Record Expunged

If you have been convicted of a felony in the past, but wish to have your record expunged, it’s important to speak with a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. He or she understands criminal law and can help to move you in a positive direction. Your past choices don’t have to define your future.

At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, our felony defense attorneys fully understand the significance of expungement and will do everything that we can to help you obtain it. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!

If you suspect there may be a warrant for your arrest, you may feel paralyzed with anxiety. But if you find yourself in this situation, there are things that you can do. Understanding the steps to determine if a North Carolina warrant exists and understanding the implications of it is essential for those seeking clarity during the initial stages of the legal process.

Determining Your Legal Status

There are a couple of different ways to determine your legal status in North Carolina:

Contact Law Enforcement

If you suspect a warrant exists, reaching out to local law enforcement is a straightforward way to inquire about your legal status. Be prepared to provide your personal information, such as your full name and date of birth, to facilitate the search.

Check Online Databases

Many jurisdictions, including North Carolina, have online databases that allow individuals to search for active warrants. These platforms can provide a quick overview of your legal status, but it’s very important that you approach them with accurate information to ensure reliable results.

Understanding the Implications

An arrest warrant is a legal document issued by a judge authorizing law enforcement to apprehend an individual suspected of committing a crime. Understanding the gravity of this document is essential, as it signifies formal charges and the initiation of legal proceedings.

If you discover that a warrant exists for your arrest, seeking the guidance of a criminal defense attorney is crucial. An experienced attorney can assess the situation, explain the charges against you, and provide advice on the best course of action.

Turning Yourself In

In some cases, individuals with active warrants may choose to turn themselves in. This proactive approach can demonstrate cooperation with the legal process and may influence how the case unfolds.

Understanding criminal law and your rights is essential when facing charges. A criminal defense lawyer can provide the necessary expertise to navigate the legal complexities, build a robust defense, and work towards the best possible outcome.

Knowledge is key. By taking proactive steps to determine your legal status and seeking professional legal counsel, you can gain a clearer understanding of the situation and make informed decisions about the next steps in your legal journey. Remember, early intervention and the assistance of a criminal defense attorney can play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of your case.

The Attorneys at Hancock Law Firm, PLLC Help Those in North Carolina Who Have a Warrant for their Arrest

If you have a warrant for your arrest, how you handle the situation can impact the outcome. Your best bet for handling it the right way is with the help of a knowledgeable and experienced North Carolina criminal defense attorney who understands what you are up against and will fight on your behalf. However, time is of the essence, which is why it’s best to contact a qualified attorney as soon as possible. 

At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, we fully understand what is at stake and will do everything that we can to help you. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!

When facing criminal charges, understanding the law is crucial to ensuring the protection of your rights. In many situations, the expertise of an experienced criminal defense attorney is of the utmost importance, making all the difference in the outcome of the case. Here are some of the top situations that warrant the hiring of a criminal defense lawyer.

1. If You Are Arrested and Formally Charged with a Crime

Being arrested and facing formal criminal charges is an immediate call for legal assistance. A skilled criminal defense attorney can guide you through the legal process, explaining your rights, and formulating a defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.

2. When Multiple Parties Are Involved

In cases where multiple parties are implicated, such as conspiracy charges or co-defendant situations, a criminal defense attorney becomes crucial. They can help work through the complexities of joint defense strategies.

3. During the Investigation Phase

During the investigation phase, law enforcement may contact you for questioning. It is essential to have legal representation during interactions with the police to protect your rights and prevent self-incrimination. A criminal defense attorney’s understanding of law enforcement procedures becomes invaluable in these situations.

4. For Juvenile Offenses

When a minor is involved in criminal activities, having a criminal defense attorney with expertise in juvenile law is key. They can advocate for alternative resolutions and work towards mitigating the potential long-term consequences for the minor.

5. When the Case Involves a Drug Offense

Cases involving drug offenses often carry significant consequences and entail intricate legal nuances. A criminal defense attorney with expertise in drug laws can challenge evidence, question search and seizure procedures, and explore potential defenses tailored to drug-related charges.

6. When There Are Domestic Violence Charges

Domestic violence charges can have severe consequences on both one’s personal and professional life. They can also be difficult to disprove. A criminal defense attorney specializing in domestic violence cases can provide strategic defense, protect your rights, and advocate for fair outcomes.

7. For Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief

If you have been convicted, a criminal defense attorney can assist in filing appeals or seeking post-conviction relief. Their expertise can be instrumental in presenting compelling arguments to challenge the conviction or secure a more favorable outcome.

The decision to hire a criminal defense attorney is a critical step in protecting your rights and navigating the complexities of the legal system. In situations involving multiple parties or when facing criminal charges, their understanding of both the law and law enforcement procedures becomes invaluable. By consulting with a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense lawyer, you can ensure that your interests are protected and that you receive a fair and just resolution to your case.

Hancock Law Firm, PLLC Helps Those in North Carolina Who Have Been Charged with a Crime

If you have been charged with a crime, you may have options. You have the right to defend yourself. Your best bet of doing so successfully is with the help of a knowledgeable and experienced North Carolina criminal defense attorney who understands criminal law and will fight on your behalf. However, time is of the essence, which is why it’s best to contact a qualified attorney as soon as possible to assist with your criminal defense. 

At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, we fully understand what is at stake and will do everything that we can to help you fight this charge. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!

Navigating legal matters can be confusing, especially when it involves knowing your rights during encounters with the police. One thing that commonly confuses people is figuring out the difference between being fully arrested and just being held by the police for questioning. Although both situations mean you’re not free to go, they’re actually quite different when it comes to your rights and what might happen next. 

In this blog post, we’ll provide some helpful insights into these differences and give you a heads-up on what to expect in each situation.

What’s the nature of the encounter?

When you are under arrest, law enforcement officers have formally taken you into custody. This means you are not free to leave, and you will likely be handcuffed or restrained in some way. An arrest indicates that the authorities believe they have enough evidence to charge you with a crime.

Being detained for questioning is a less severe situation. It usually involves the temporary restriction of your freedom while law enforcement officers ask you questions to gather information or clarify details about an incident. You may not be handcuffed during a detention, and it is not an official arrest.

How long will the encounter take?

An arrest is usually more extended and can potentially lead to an extended period of custody. After an arrest, you will be taken to a police station or holding facility.

Detentions are usually shorter in duration. They are intended to allow law enforcement officers to gather information quickly. Once the questions are answered, you may be released.

Will you be read your Miranda rights?

When you are placed under arrest, law enforcement officers are required to read you your Miranda rights. These rights include the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Anything you say after being arrested can be used against you in court.

During detention, law enforcement may or may not read you your Miranda rights, depending on the circumstances. If you are not read your rights, anything you say during the detention might not be admissible in court.

What can be searched and seized?

When you are under arrest, law enforcement officers have more authority to search your person and belongings, usually after obtaining a search warrant or if there is probable cause.

In a detention, the scope of a search is generally limited to ensuring the safety of the officers and others. A full search typically requires a separate search warrant or consent.

How should you conduct yourself?

If you are under arrest, it is generally recommended that you remain silent and request an attorney. It’s important that you cooperate with law enforcement, but do not provide any information unless it is required by law. You don’t want to say anything that could be used against you. 

While detained, you may answer questions, but you are not obligated to do so. You should remain cooperative and respectful but remember that you have the right to remain silent.

Understanding the difference between being under arrest and being detained for questioning is key to protecting your rights and making informed decisions when encountering law enforcement. In both situations, it’s vital that you remain calm, respectful, and cooperative. However, knowing your rights and the distinctions between these two scenarios can help you navigate legal encounters carefully and effectively.

If you are unsure about your legal status during an encounter with law enforcement, it is always a good idea to consult with an attorney. An attorney can provide guidance for your specific situation and ensure that your rights are protected.

Hancock Law Firm, PLLC Helps Those in North Carolina Who Have Been Charged with a Crime

If you have been accused of a crime, you may have options. It’s imperative that you follow what you are asked to do. You have the right to defend yourself but your best bet of doing so successfully is with the help of a knowledgeable and experienced North Carolina criminal defense attorney who understands what you are up against and will fight on your behalf. However, time is of the essence, which is why it’s best to contact a qualified criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. 

At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, we fully understand what is at stake and will do everything that we can to help you fight the charges against you. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!

When you have been accused of a crime, it’s important to remain respectful of law enforcement and follow the instructions given to you by the court. When a defendant has been released on bail there are certain requirements to which he or she must adhere. Here’s what to know about bail jumping in North Carolina. 

What is bail?

In order to understand bail jumping, you must first understand the concept of bail. Bail is a legal process that enables an individual who has been accused of a crime to be released from custody pending their trial. The court establishes an amount of money and/or conditions that must be met in order for the defendant to be released. Bail is meant to ensure that the defendant will show up for their court appearances. 

What Is Bail Jumping?

Bail jumping occurs when a defendant who has been released on bail, neglects to attend court for their designated trial or other obligatory proceedings. This constitutes a breach of the terms and conditions of their bail agreement. The consequences of bail jumping are substantial and have a significant influence on the ultimate outcome of the defendant’s legal case.

The Consequences of Bail Jumping in NC

North Carolina takes criminal law and any violations of it very seriously. This includes bail jumping. There are many potential consequences for a defendant’s failure to appear for trial after being released on bail. Such consequences include:

• Forfeiture of Bail: The court may forfeit the bail amount or collateral that was posted to secure the defendant’s release. This means that the money or property used for bail will not be returned.
• Bench Warrant: A bench warrant is generally issued for the defendant’s arrest when they fail to appear. Therefore, law enforcement can arrest the defendant and bring them back to court.
• Additional Criminal Charges: Bail jumping can also lead to more criminal charges, including contempt of court or bail jumping charges, which may carry their own penalties.
• Difficulty Securing Future Bail: Defendants who bail jump may have a more difficult time securing bail in future cases because courts may view them as flight risks.
• Extradition: In some cases, if a defendant jumps bail and leaves the state, extradition proceedings may be initiated to bring them back to face their original charges.

Hancock Law Firm, PLLC Helps Those in North Carolina Who Have Been Charged with a Crime

If you have been accused of a crime, you may have options. It’s imperative that you follow what you are asked to do. You have the right to defend yourself but your best bet of doing so successfully is with the help of a knowledgeable and experienced North Carolina criminal defense attorney who understands what you are up against and will fight on your behalf. However, time is of the essence, which is why it’s best to contact a qualified criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. 

At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, we fully understand what is at stake and will do everything that we can to help you fight the charges against you. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!

After facing the consequences of a criminal conviction, you likely just want to move forward with your life. Unfortunately, your conviction often follows you. When you’re searching and applying for jobs, you may feel the desire to hide your past mistakes in fear that your conviction will prevent you from obtaining employment. However, it’s extremely important that you are very honest during the application process. Here’s what to know about what you should include on a job application when you have a criminal record.

1. Be Honest

It may seem to be beneficial to leave your conviction off of your job application, but most employers conduct background checks. This means that even if an employer really likes you, when they run the background check and see a discrepancy, they may no longer be interested in hiring you for your dishonesty alone. Lying or withholding this information can seriously hurt your credibility.

2. Lead with Your Qualifications

While it’s important not to lie on your job application, it’s even more important to draw attention to positive attributes, such as your skills, experience, and qualifications as they relate to the job in question. Focus on how your experience and abilities align with job requirements and highlight how this can bring value to the business.

3. Proactively Address Your Past

The way in which you address your criminal record on your job application is key. Rather than going into great detail on your application, be proactive and put together a thoughtful statement owning up to your past and framing it in a manner that expresses how much you have grown since then. You also want to drive home that the mistakes that you have made in your life do not define who you are or what you are capable of.

4. Prepare Your Answers

North Carolina has “ban-the-box” laws, which prohibit employers from asking potential employees about their criminal history on initial job applications. It’s important to understand that you do not have to disclose any expunged criminal history on a pre-employment screening questionnaire. Instead, you have the ability to demonstrate your character, your intelligence, and your value before you disclose your record. However, once you reach the interview phase, it’s possible that you may be asked about your criminal record. You should become familiar with how you will answer any related questions, including how you have moved forward.

5. Share Character References

In order to help prove who you truly are, it can be extremely beneficial to collect character references who can attest to who you are, your values, and how you aren’t your mistakes. This can greatly offset concerns about your convictions.

While it can be very stressful having to admit to your past wrongs, it’s important to remain honest throughout the job application process. Your honesty can go a long way.

Hancock Law Firm, PLLC Helps Those in North Carolina Who Have Been Charged with a Crime

If you have been charged with a crime, you may have options. You have the right to defend yourself. Your best bet of doing so successfully is with the help of a knowledgeable and experienced North Carolina criminal defense attorney who understands criminal law and what you are up against and will fight on your behalf.

At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, our criminal defense lawyers fully understand what is at stake and will do everything that we can to help you to fight this charge. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!