Labor Day weekend is fast approaching and many people are planning one last big summer celebration. While it’s a fun way to bid farewell to the summer months, it can also be a dangerous time to be behind the wheel of a car if you indulge in alcoholic beverages. North...
DWI/DUI
How aggravating and mitigating circumstances can affect your DWI case
A criminal charge for driving while intoxicated (DWI) can lead to penalties such as jail time, fines and even the suspension of your driver’s license. But did you know that certain factors surrounding your case can affect the severity of these penalties? When facing a...
When does a DWI become a felony?
In North Carolina, you can get a driving while impaired (DWI) charge if you operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or certain controlled substances, such as drugs. Although DWI generally falls under misdemeanor criminal offenses, certain factors can...
Can you face DWI charges for driving a golf cart drunk?
If you are an avid golfer, you undoubtedly love living and playing in North Carolina. Getting a tee time on a busy course can be exceedingly difficult in the summer, however. Fortunately, most of the state's golf courses are open year-round, except during inclement...
What could occur if I refuse to submit to a breath test?
North Carolina's statutes require motorists to submit to a breath test when pulled over by law enforcement officials. If stopped for an alcohol-related offense, refusing a breath test could result in a loss of driving privileges. North Carolina's Department of Public...
Handling DWI charges as a commercial motor vehicle driver
If you drive a large truck or another type of commercial motor vehicle (CMV), it is important to understand the drunk driving laws in this state. North Carolina has a zero-tolerance policy for those who operate commercial motor vehicles, which means that commercial...
Adult drug treatment court – an overview
For people struggling with drug dependency issues, traditional courts and criminal penalties often do not serve their needs or aid with avoiding recidivism. As an alternative, several counties throughout North Carolina offer adult drug treatment court programs....
What are the penalties for a first-time DWI in North Carolina?
During the last few weeks, many Asheville residents have celebrated the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. As part of that, they may have had a few festive drinks – maybe some spiced eggnog or hot buttered rum or mulled wine. If you were one of those who went to a...
How a DUI can hurt your education and career
You might choose to party and drink socially to have fun and let go of the stresses of your academic studies or job. However, driving after such drinking is never worth the serious consequences. At minimum you face license suspension, hefty fines, jail time and even...
When is a DWI upgraded to a felony charge?
There is a whole slew of variables and factors that could change an allegation of driving while impaired to a felony charge. DWI (Driving While Impaired) charges in North Carolina carry historically higher penalties than DUIs (Driving Under the Influence). Even with...