Carolina Criminal & DUI Lawyer Blog
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 such a felony is treated as first-degree murder, even in the absence of premeditation or deliberation.
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 such a felony is treated as first-degree murder, even in the absence of premeditation or deliberation.
The recent appellate decision State v. Middleton (N.C. Ct. App. 2025) sheds light on how felony murder interacts with allegations of felony child abuse. While the underlying facts involved minors and grave injuries, the published opinion concentrates on the broader legal principles relevant to attorneys, law students, and others interested in North Carolina’s felony murder framework.
This post covers:
communications can strengthen or undercut a case when introduced at trial. Yet questions of authenticity—Is the social media content and the source of those materials identifiable?—and relevance—Does it matter to the issues being tried?—are becoming more and more common during trials.
was released to the custody of his parents pending further legal proceedings.
press charges.” In reality, once law enforcement has arrested someone or a warrant, criminal summons, or citation has been issued, the authority to proceed rests with the State—not necessarily the witness or alleged victim.
convicted, the long-term consequences could include a felony conviction record, potential jail or prison time, and issues finding housing or employment in the future.
negotiations between prosecutors and defense attorneys. North Carolina criminal courts process thousands of cases each year, with resolution often coming through structured discussions and plea bargains aimed at balancing competing interests, constitutional protections, and community safety concerns.
question in State v. Rowdy, providing insight into the balance between individual rights and law enforcement’s need to protect their personal safety.
Amendment. 
Sixth Amendment is violated when a substitute analyst provides expert witness testimony about the results of forensic testing performed by a non-testifying analyst.