Close

North Carolina Criminal Law Updates

Updated:

Federal DUI Outer Banks Lawyer | Defense Guide

If you are stopped and charged with a federal DUI in the Outer Banks, and the officer is not a North Carolina Highway Patrol trooper or county or local law enforcement officer, your case may be headed to federal court. Unlike most DWI charges in North Carolina, a federal DUI…

Updated:

Arrested on Vacation for DUI in North Carolina?

A DUI arrest while visiting North Carolina creates immediate legal problems that don’t disappear when your trip ends. Whether you were stopped after dinner in Duck or pulled over near your rental house in Kill Devil Hills, you’re now facing a criminal charge that could very well follow you home. …

Updated:

Criminal Attempt Charges NC | Burden of Proof OBX

When North Carolina prosecutors charge someone with attempting to commit a crime, rather than the completed offense itself, they undertake a burden of proof that most defendants don’t fully appreciate. The North Carolina Court of Appeals’ recent decision in State v. Vaughn, COA24-1089 (Nov. 19, 2025), demonstrates how the heightened…

Updated:

Quick Tips from an OBX Traffic Ticket Lawyer

OBX Traffic Ticket Lawyer | Helping Drivers in Elizabeth City, NC Getting a traffic ticket in or around Elizabeth City, North Carolina, doesn’t always seem like a big deal at first, especially if you’re from out of town or just trying to get home. How you handle that citation can…

Updated:

Should I Talk to the Police “Off the Record?”

Talk to a Lawyer Before You Talk to the Police If law enforcement is asking about a potential criminal case, there is no such thing as “off the record.” You should be extremely cautious about speaking to police or investigators without legal counsel, even if they haven’t arrested you or…

Updated:

Domestic Violence Arrest in the Outer Banks: What Happens Next?

In this post, we’ll walk you through what happens after an OBX domestic violence arrest – from the charges you might face to the court process in the Outer Banks and possible outcomes – and outline steps you can take along the way. If you or a loved one is…

Updated:

Chapter 50B DVPOs in North Carolina: What to Expect If You’re Accused

Allegations of domestic violence can be confusing and alarming, especially if a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO) if filed under Chapter 50B. North Carolina law alleged victms who feel threatened or harmed in a personal, “domestic” relationship to petition the court for a civil protective order, sometimes referred to as…

Updated:

DVPO in North Carolina: Extension of Domestic Violence Protective Order

If accused of domestic violence in North Carolina, you may already know about a legal process called a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO) under Chapter 50B. It’s sometimes referred to as a “50B order” or “restraining order.” A judicial official can enter a DVPO against you, limiting (or even entirely…

Updated:

OBX Domestic Violence Cases: When Civil DVPOs Intersect with Criminal Charges

What starts as a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO) hearing can quickly evolve into criminal charges. The North Carolina Court of Appeals recently addressed this reality in Simpson v. Silver, filing an opinion that clarifies how courts evaluate evidence in these cases. The decision, released November 5, 2024, provides guidance…

Updated:

What is a Willful Refusal?

If you’re facing a DWI charge on the Outer Banks (OBX), understanding the concept of “willful refusal” can significantly impact your case. A willful refusal in the context of a DWI charge refers to a driver’s deliberate decision not to submit to a chemical analysis when requested by law enforcement.…

Contact Us