The United States Supreme Court recently addressed the question of whether the Confrontation Clause of the Sixth Amendment is violated when a substitute analyst provides expert witness testimony about the results of forensic testing performed by a non-testifying analyst. The Court held that when an expert, in this instance a…
The San Diego Study, conducted in 1998, has left an indelible mark on the landscape of DUI charges in North Carolina and prosecution across the United States. Its findings on the accuracy of Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs) have influenced police training, informed courtroom strategies, and shaped public policy. However,…
“Just take Uber” – It‘s a phrase echoed across Charlotte’s vibrant nightlife scene, from Uptown bars to NoDa breweries. On the surface, it seems like a simple, foolproof solution to prevent driving under the influence (DUI). But as the Charlotte metro area rapidly expands towards 3 million residents, stretching from…
Revisions to N.C.G.S. § 20-179.3 represent a significant update to North Carolina’s Limited Driving Privilege laws, with potentially far-reaching implications. In this post, we’ll discuss eligibility for an Ignition Interlock Limited Driving Privilege for certain Level 2 offenders, reinstatement requirements involving expanded use of ignition interlock devices (IID), mandatory reporting…
When you see those flashing lights in your rearview mirror and an officer signals you to pull over, your heart might skip a beat, especially if they suspect impairment and decide to conduct a sobriety test. Among the various methods employed by law enforcement to assess impairment, the walk and…
The alarming rise in hit-and-run incidents raises pressing questions for criminal defense lawyers about the psychology underlying why certain drivers fail to stop and render aid. From a fleeting moment of panic to a calculated decision to evade consequences, the decision to flee to elude criminal charges reflects a troubling…
A primary concern for many who face an arrest for DUI charges in North Carolina involves the ability to drive. Most people want to know, “What happens to your license after a DWI?” and “Can you get a work privilege or hardship license?” Facing a DWI charge in North Carolina…
The holiday season often sees a ramp-up in DUI enforcement, with the implementation of measures like Impaired Driving Checkpoints and Saturation Patrols. At the Powers Law Firm, we recognize the importance of staying informed about these developments and would be honored to help if you’ve been charged with impaired driving…
The aftermath of a DWI conviction in North Carolina reaches far beyond the courtroom’s walls. For many, it’s not just about the immediate fines or even the potential for a permanent record; it’s about the ripples it sends through every facet of life. From employment aspirations to personal relationships, a…
A DWI charge in Charlotte can be intimidating. Most people understand the potential consequences are serious but aren’t quite certain about the specifics and what that really means. If that’s you, it’s OK. That’s normal. If you’ve been accused of “drunk driving,” you likely have questions such as: What are…