Manning Law Blog

Understanding Arrests, Cash Bonds, and Pretrial Release

09/06/2024 -

When a person is arrested, the subsequent steps and legal processes can be complex and sometimes confusing. This guide provides an in-depth look at the procedures following an arrest, focusing on the crucial aspects of pretrial release, including the conditions for release, the handling of cash bonds, and the return of these bonds. Immediate Judicial… Read more »

Cannabis-Related Stops – A Legal Perspective

05/31/2024 -

In a recent ruling by the North Carolina Court of Appeals in the case of State v. George, decided on March 5, 2024, a critical analysis was provided on how the mere sight and odor of cannabis can constitute reasonable suspicion, allowing law enforcement to extend a traffic stop to further investigate potential drug offenses…. Read more »

North Carolina’s New Stance on Drug Trafficking Fines

04/18/2024 -

In an effort to combat the escalating crisis of drug overdoses and trafficking, North Carolina is making a bold move. Starting December 1, 2023, the state will implement significantly higher fines for trafficking certain dangerous drugs, including heroin, fentanyl, and carfentanil. This decision marks a crucial point in North Carolina’s fight against drug-related offenses, aiming… Read more »

Navigating the Path After Dismissal: Expunging Dismissed Criminal Charges in North Carolina

02/29/2024 -

Introduction Facing criminal charges is a daunting experience, but what happens when the state voluntarily dismisses those charges? While it’s a relief to have the immediate threat lifted, the lingering presence of prior charges on your record can have lasting consequences. In North Carolina, there are avenues to explore for getting those charges expunged so… Read more »

North Carolina’s Progressive Step in Criminal Justice Reform: The New Law Expanding Expungement Eligibility

02/01/2024 -

North Carolina has recently made a significant stride in criminal justice reform by revising its expunction eligibility criteria. This development is particularly important for individuals who have been convicted of felony breaking and entering. Let’s delve into the details and implications of this legislative change. Understanding the Revised Expunction Eligibility Under the new law, codified… Read more »

NC Courts Install New Electronic Case Management System

03/14/2023 -

For people charged with a crime, cited for a moving violation, or seeking a domestic violence protective order, a day in court is no picnic. And a new case management system being piloted in four North Carolina counties is making such visits even more of an ordeal by prolonging the time it takes to process… Read more »

Abortion Laws for North Carolina

01/10/2023 -

Currently, there are no federal statutes that protect abortion rights.  As a result, this important medical care has been subject to piecemeal regulation by the states, with comparatively little federal oversight.  The irregularity with which the states treat abortion access creates gaps in care accessibility, so it is important to know the state of the… Read more »

What Is A Felony in North Carolina?

03/23/2022 -

While most people have heard the word ‘felony,’ it’s sometimes difficult to comprehensively understand what a felony fully encompasses. By definition, a felony is a crime that’s based on previous judicial outcomes and punishable by imprisonment at a state level. However, there are nuances to this definition. Let’s break down how they’re categorized and what… Read more »

How To Fight A Traffic Ticket

10/28/2021 -

While traffic tickets can seem relatively minor and more inconvenient than impactful, they can have larger implications for your driving privileges. If you’ve been pulled over for violating a traffic law, you may need to appear in court. Let’s discuss your options when faced with a traffic ticket. Why Did I Get A Ticket? In… Read more »

What is the Difference Between a DWI and DUI in North Carolina?

06/09/2021 -

DWI and DUI laws can vary by state. In North Carolina, DWI is the official legal term to describe driving while impaired. Many people think that a DWI means that you are under the influence of illegal substances or alcohol. However, any impairments, including driving while on certain prescription drugs, can qualify for a DWI…. Read more »