Satellite-based monitoring (SBM) is a form of long-term electronic surveillance imposed by the courts in certain criminal cases involving sex offenses in North Carolina. Although it shares some similarities with electronic monitoring during probation, SBM is not limited to a period of court supervision. It can continue for years after…
A substantial number of criminal charges in North Carolina are resolved through plea bargains and negotiated pleas, rather than a jury trial. That doesn’t mean your case isn’t serious or that the charges are minor. It means the criminal justice system is built in a way that often encourages negotiated…
Is sexual discrimination during jury selection a problem in North Carolina courtrooms? In North Carolina v. Bell, the North Carolina Supreme Court considered whether the defendant’s claim—that prosecutors used peremptory strikes based on gender—had been properly preserved for appeal or post-conviction review. The Court said no. This case is a…
In North Carolina, if someone is killed during the commission or attempted commission of certain felonies involving a deadly weapon, the offense may be charged as first-degree murder under what is commonly called the “felony murder rule.” Under this doctrine, a homicide arising from the perpetration or attempted perpetration of…
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…
Domestic violence is a serious and complex issue that affects many families in Union County, North Carolina. Facing domestic violence charges can be emotionally and legally challenging, especially given the potential ramifications on both the criminal and civil fronts. It makes sense to retain a law firm with substantial experience…
Charlotte Criminal Defense Lawyer Bill Powers Answers the Question: Is larceny a felony or misdemeanor criminal case? Why are some things considered a “minor misdemeanor” and other allegations of larceny considered a felony? What is a felony and why is it more serious? Is larceny a felony or misdemeanor criminal case…
If you’re facing criminal charges in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, or nearby areas like Union and Gaston counties, understanding search warrants and your rights under the Fourth Amendment is important. Search warrants can play a key role in criminal investigations, but they must follow strict legal guidelines. Whether it’s a search…