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Is Court Closed in Charlotte?Inclement weather in the Carolinas can make for anxious times.  It’s more than just black ice and downed trees.  If you have court appearance coming up, wondering what to do can be a problem.   

If you have criminal charges pending or a scheduled court appearance date for DWI charges in Charlotte, failure to appear as directed can result in the issuance of an Order for Arrest or “OFA.”

The Clerk of Court may also record a Failure to Appear (FTA) that if reported back to NC DMV can result in problems with your driver’s license in North Carolina.

Part I: NC Insurance Companies Win by making sure You Lose

As an attorney who helps people with accident cases, it’s frankly hard not to sound a bit snarky when talking about the insurance laws in North Carolina. The reason insurance adjustors deny valid claims is simple: It pays to do so.

Why was my claim denied? Mind you, in many instances that is completely legal, ethical, and standard procedure. That doesn’t make it right or equitable.

Monroe Drunk Driving LawyersWhat is DWI in NC?  Is it drunk driving?

There is a fair amount of confusion in North Carolina about DWI charges.  The general public may call that type of criminal charge different things like DUI, driving under the influence, driving while intoxicated, and even drunk driving.

Under the NC criminal laws, the offense is simply titled:  Impaired Driving.  It frankly can be a bit complicated, which adds to the level of confusion.  What really matters is how you respond to the charges, not what they’re called.

Indictment Criminal LawCriminal charges in North Carolina follow a normal, standard protocol in our courts and judicial system. A Bill of Indictment is an important legal pleading and one that merits careful review by criminal defense lawyers.

In addition to providing for a methodological approach to the administration of justice, consistency serves to ensure Equal Protection of Laws.

Due Process includes compliance with Chapter 15: Criminal Procedure and Chapter 15A: The North Carolina Criminal Procedure Act.

Possession of a Firearm by a Felon ChargeCareful consideration is given in Criminal Court to weapons charges, especially when they are criminal charges involving a convicted felon and possession of a firearm (gun).  The consequences of a conviction for Possession of a Firearm by a Felon Charge are serious and can result in jail time (41 months maximum prison sentence) as a Class G Felony under the Felony Sentencing Grid.

If you’ve been charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm, it’s crucial to seek good legal advice from an experienced defense attorney.  Possession, and what constitutes possession, is often a key issue in the defense of such charges – Bill Powers, Criminal Defense Lawyer 

What is Possession of a Firearm by Felon in North Carolina?

Charges DismissedWhat is a Conditional Discharge in North Carolina?

In some ways, a conditional discharge is a lot like deferred prosecution.  In fact, many of the same terms and conditions for deferred, such as probation, may apply to a conditional discharge (and eventual charges dismissed).

The primary difference is that the defendant enters a guilty plea as part of conditional discharge, but the court does not enter final judgment.

How Can I Get My Charges Dropped?How Can I Get My Charges Dropped?

If you’re facing a criminal offense, whether felony or misdemeanor charges, it’s understandable you might be anxious.  The consequences of a conviction can be long-lasting and severe, making it hard to find and keep a good job.  That’s especially true for larceny, crimes of “theft or dishonesty” and drug charges.

As such, it makes sense to try to avoid a conviction if at all possible.  Charlotte criminal defense lawyers do more than review discovery, take cases to trial, or argue motions.  Indeed, a substantial part of our job is to consider options to avoid litigation and a criminal conviction by negotiating with the State (the District Attorney assigned to the matter).

Is DUI a Felony in North CarolinaIf you were arrested and face criminal charges for felony or misdemeanor offenses, we’re here to help.  Bill Powers is an NBTA Board Certified Specialist in Criminal Defense with 25+ years experience helping people.

This may be a difficult time for you or a loved one.  We understand how overwhelming it can seem.  That’s one reason it helps to have a defense lawyer standing by your side in court.  We’re here to protect your best interests – Bill Powers, Criminal Defense Lawyer Charlotte NC

Another reason to seek legal advice is to explain what has become an increasingly complicated legal system.  Good decisions are often centered on possessing the facts of the case, which necessitates hard work, preparation, and an attention to Constitutional Rights.

Can my charges get dismissed?Most people want to avoid a criminal record and jail time, which is understandable.  While there may be legal options available that could ultimately result in a dismissal of criminal charges or even certain traffic tickets, there are a lot of things to consider including the fact pattern, prior criminal history, and severity of the allegations.

At the same time, it’s a mistake to assume charges are automatically dismissed.

Conditions for a dismissal may include things like Deferred Prosecution, conditional discharge, community service, drug or alcohol treatment, psychiatric care, and even an occasional letter of apology.  A lot depends on what happened and the type of criminal allegations, felony or misdemeanor, district court vs. superior court, etc.

Lawyers in South CarolinaLive in Charlotte and face allegations of criminal charges in Rock Hill SC?  Need legal representation for a felony or misdemeanor charge or DUI in South Carolina?

Looking for a criminal lawyer in North Carolina and South Carolina?  Attorney Chris Beddow is available to answer your questions.

We enjoy helping people in both Carolinas with complex cases in criminal court and civil court.  It doesn’t matter if you have criminal charges or are suffering from a serious car accident, our firm is available for consultation  – Chris Beddow, Lawyer in Rock Hill SC