Carolina Law Blog

June 18, 2021

Can I get my DWI charges reduced?

Whether you call it DUI or DWI or even drunk driving, a conviction for impaired driving in North Carolina carries consequences. It’s normal for people to ask, “Can I get my DWI charges reduced or amended to something like reckless driving?”

If you have questions about a pending charge or are dealing with the fallout of a conviction and have issues with your driver’s license and NCDMV problems, call us.

Facing criminal charges alone, whether it’s for a serious felony or even a minor speeding ticket can be tough. That’s especially true if you have little experience with the court system and don’t how things work.

March 6, 2021

Invading the Province of the Jury

by Carolina Attorneys

Under the rules of evidence in North Carolina, the Trier of Fact is responsible for listening to the testimony presented and deciding what happened.

Determining the truth of a matter is essential to meting out justice.

One would be remiss in failing to acknowledge the import and impact of an independent trier of fact.

January 15, 2021

Jury Instructions on Self Defense

by Carolina Attorneys

The North Carolina Court of Appeals, in the December 31, 2020 published opinion North Carolina v. Charles Stephens (State v. Stephens No. COA19-425), sets forth what is required for a Jury Instruction on Self Defense.

In determining what evidence is sufficient, such that the Defendant is entitled to a jury instruction on a mitigating factor or a defense, the Court must consider the evidence presented at trial in the light most favorable to the defendant.

The trial court has the duty to instruct the Finder of Fact on all features deemed substantial in a case.

December 16, 2020

Don’t get arrested for DWI in Charlotte

by Carolina Attorneys

It may seem a bit unusual for a Charlotte DWI lawyer to share an LYFT coupon code.

If we can help limit the incidences of impaired driving, DWI-related fatalities, and felony criminal charges due to impaired driving (DUI / DWI), we’d prefer you to be safe-and-sound.

Don’t take a chance with holiday cheer. Don’t drink and drive. Call LYFT and save $10 on your ride this holiday season.

December 8, 2020

Charlotte Court Cases – COVID UPDATE

by Carolina Attorneys

Criminal defense lawyers in Charlotte, prosecutors, clerks of court, law enforcement, and the legal professionals associated with court operations in North Carolina are on the front lines helping people during trying times.

The Chief District Judge in Mecklenburg County, the Honorable Elizabeth Trosch, advises Charlotte Lawyers she has contracted the Coronavirus.

We wish Judge Trosch and everyone who has contracted the Coronavirus a speedy recovery.

November 16, 2020

Practice Tips for Defense Lawyers – Preserving Issues for Appeal

by Carolina Attorneys

Jury trials, at least for criminal defense lawyers and prosecutors, represent the apex of professional life.

Prior to trial we review discovery, interview witnesses, and argue motions.

We anticipate what may or may not be admissible.

November 15, 2020

Reasonable Suspicion – Texting While Driving

by Carolina Attorneys

Texting while driving in North Carolina is both very common and very illegal.

NHTSA studies indicate “distracted driving” results in a substantial number of vehicle-related accidents and fatalities.

Some highway safety experts believe texting while driving is as dangerous and possibly more dangerous than “drunk driving” given how common the practice has become.

August 1, 2020

Coronavirus and Defense Lawyers

by Carolina Attorneys

Going to court never used to be a worry for criminal defense lawyers.

Ordinarily, attorneys have concerns, and a certain level of anxiousness, about the just disposition of criminal allegations and DWI charges in Charlotte.

We care deeply for clients and their well-being.

July 20, 2020

Carolina Courts and the Coronavirus

by Carolina Attorneys

Not long after publishing our most recent update on Coronavirus and NC Courts, the Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court issued Emergency Directives supplementing prior Orders regarding court operations.

Most notably, Justice Beasley in her Order:

Clarifies there will not be Jury Trials in North Carolina likely through at least the end of September 2020; and,

July 16, 2020

Coronavirus in our Courts

by Carolina Attorneys

Today we received another disturbing email, advising someone who works in the Wake County courthouse in Raleigh is positive for the Coronavirus.

Last week, criminal defense lawyers in Durham madly texted and emailed one another, sharing similar news.

The Clerk of Court in Mecklenburg County recently advised a group of family law attorneys in Charlotte that three clerks are positive and “ten times that amount” have been sent home because of possible exposure.