A conviction for a drug crime in North Carolina can have a wide range of negative consequences. Avoiding this situation involves many factors, including knowing the common risk factors for drug abuse. Armed with this knowledge, people can take steps to reduce the...
drug offenses
How does state law determine what is drug paraphernalia?
Drug laws do not only criminalize illegal drugs. There are some objects which people use to package, analyze or ingest controlled substances. The law calls these objects drug paraphernalia. Under state law, it is illegal to possess materials and devices if they...
When can you refuse an officer’s request to search your car?
During a traffic stop in North Carolina, a law enforcement officer may ask you if he or she may have a look through your car. In some cases, you may have no choice but to let the officer move forward with the search. However, in others, you may have the right to...
What are your Miranda rights?
Many cop shows or films featuring law enforcement will focus on the Miranda rights, given to a person who is either being arrested or has already been put into police custody. However, many people do not understand how Miranda rights actually work in reality, which...
What are your best defense strategies to beat a DUI charge?
Getting charged with DUI can trigger highly negative repercussions. In North Carolina, even a first-time offender can be looking at two months in jail, on top of a $200 fine. Conviction may also result in losing the right to drive for a month and community service....
Are there different types of plea bargains?
Whether or not the defendant decides to accept one, it is very common for a plea bargain to be a part of a drug trial. Plea bargaining offers a number of advantages for both the prosecution and the defense in certain instances. In your particular drug case, it may or...
What is a conditional discharge agreement?
In an attempt to keep otherwise good people out of jail following a criminal conviction, the North Carolina courts allow for less severe sentencing measures. These measures also contribute to defendants’ rehabilitation. If you are the defendant in a criminal case and...
The damaging impact of drugs on your life
A drug conviction in North Carolina might suspend your future goals especially if you face incarceration. Using drugs can impact your life in a number of ways influencing everything from your career to your personal relationships. When you understand just how damaging...
How does drug addiction compare to drug abuse and tolerance?
After an unfortunate encounter with North Carolina law enforcement, you received drug charges. You know you made an unfortunate decision, and you want answers about what led to that choice. WebMD explains the difference between drug addiction and drug abuse and...
Do you qualify for North Carolina drug treatment court?
If you face criminal charges that result from substance use, you could qualify for drug treatment court in North Carolina. Recovery programs at the county level provide medical and mental health care for those diagnosed with substance use disorder. Review the facts...