Beyond an express waiver, a defendant can also lose the right to a lawyer through forfeiture in certain circumstances. Forfeiture of counsel is a doctrine that applies when a defendant’s own serious misconduct effectively forfeits the right to an attorney. Unlike a waiver, which is a voluntary relinquishment of a…
Waiver of Counsel: Legal Framework and Standard of Review Criminal defendants have a fundamental right to the assistance of counsel under the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and Article I of the North Carolina Constitution. A defendant also has the right to proceed without counsel and represent himself or…
If you’ve recently heard talk about a new court opinion affecting Bald Head Island, you’re not alone. News travels fast here—even when we have to take a ferry to get anywhere else. With no bridge and minimal car use, the ferry service is our community’s backbone, connecting you to mainland…
Should you talk to a lawyer? Will it make a difference? How important is good legal advice? Hi, I’m Bill Powers and I’m an attorney in North Carolina. I help people with different legal issues throughout the state. If you have a question or would like some answers to…
How reliable is the internet in getting answers to legal questions? 4 Things you should know about how lawyers help Hey, I’m Bill Powers. Most likely, you have just posted something on a public online forum, a board if you will, a message board and that means either you or…
Is Breathalyzer on the side of the road reliable?? What kind of devices are out there? What is the accuracy of the handheld breath test? Is there a way to challenge the test? Are handheld tests admissible as evidence? Is the AlcoSensor reliable? 1710F Handheld breath testing devices…
Is your baby actually old enough to drive? Been a while since you took a test, let alone THE TEST? Weeping Wailing and Gnashing of Teeth No More – Parents’ Guide to Navigating DMV Today’s post provides some hidden truths, and suggestions, for parents about to undergo the process…