North Carolina Criminal Law Updates

Confessions to a spouse in North Carolina

July 1, 2021 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

Everyone seems to have a passing familiarity with the attorney-client privilege and the secret nature of communications between someone facing allegations of criminal charges and their defense lawyer.

That protection of confidentiality encourages the defendant, the person accused of a crime, to be honest with their lawyer. Honesty with legal counsel helps avoid surprises and affords a path towards reliable legal advice in any given circumstance.

There is no question under the NC criminal laws that what you confide to your criminal lawyer is confidential and privileged information. It’s an important aspect to the defense of criminal charges, whether it’s for a felony or a misdemeanor – John Fanney, Raleigh Criminal Defense Attorney

Search Warrants – Detain Occupants of Premises

February 13, 2021 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

Warrants to Search either persons or property, consistent with the 4^th Amendment, must be predicated on Probable Cause.

Some limited authority exists for law enforcement to temporarily detain occupants of the premises to be searched subject to the warrant.

Such detainment must be limited to the area where an occupant may pose a real threat to the efficient and safe execution of the search warrant.

Self-Defense Issues in North Carolina

January 21, 2021 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

The laws regarding self-defense can be intricate, requiring careful consideration of the use of force, the amount of force, and reasonableness.

A defendant determined to have been the aggressor in an affray or fight may regain the right of self-defense (right to use force, including deadly force) when placed in imminent danger of serious bodily harm or death.

In that event, the legal inquiry would look into whether the aggressor had the reasonable opportunity to retreat.

Hearsay Evidence – Present Sense Impression

December 12, 2020 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

In layperson’s terms, “hearsay” is an out-of-court statement, made by a declarant (witness) who is not testifying in court, that is used to prove the truth or accuracy of the matter asserted.

What is hearsay, and the many exceptions to the evidentiary rule about hearsay, is subject to a fair amount of confusion and therefore disagreement during a trial.

Very experienced criminal defense lawyers, prosecutors, and judges argue over hearsay and evidence issues. It can be a confusing area of law – John Fanney, Criminal Lawyer Raleigh NC

What is Reasonable Suspicion for Texting While Driving?

November 15, 2020 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

The legal basis to stop a vehicle often involves an analysis of reasonable suspicion or probable cause in North Carolina and may include “texting.”

DWI defense lawyers, attorneys who handle drug charges in Raleigh, and even prosecutors are careful to analyze the alleged reasons law enforcement officers turn on the blue lights.

Texting while driving is illegal in North Carolina.

Will my case be continued?

April 10, 2020 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

Attorneys in Raleigh and throughout North Carolina are deemed “essential personnel.”

Indeed, criminal defense lawyers as officers of the court are essential to the administration of justice and day-to-day operations.

The Wake County Courthouse remains open for certain types of pressing legal matters, including things like bond hearings, Chapter 50B Protective Orders, and what might otherwise be deemed “emergency-type” hearings for criminal charges.

Should I go to court if I’m sick?

March 9, 2020 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

It’s hard to ignore all the media reports about the Corona Virus and COVID-19.

This time of year criminal lawyers in Raleigh are used to dealing with seasonal flu outbreaks.

Frankly, juggling schedules and calendars is just part of the job. If clients have questions about whether to come to court, we recommend they call the office – John Fanney, Raleigh Defense Attorney

Can I get my DUI charges dismissed?

February 10, 2020 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

If you face DWI charges in Raleigh, you’re doing the right thing.

Researching criminal defense lawyers and considering your legal options is a good idea.

Clearly, the consequences of a conviction for driving while impaired can be a big deal.

Warrant for Arrest

January 9, 2020 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

If you have a Warrant for Arrest or Order for Arrest (OFA), we recommend you retain legal representation from a Raleigh Criminal Lawyer without delay.

Our lawyers are here to help explain how the court system works, what to do when warrants are issued, and relative to your charges, the best way to move forward in timely addressing the warrant.

If you have an outstanding warrant for arrest, don’t wait. Seek legal guidance – John Fanney, Raleigh Criminal Defense

DWI Fatality

December 16, 2019 | Fanney Law Office, PLLC

Everyone knows the dangers of drinking and driving. Few people imagine a DWI fatality in their future, let alone felony criminal charges for a “drunk driving” homicide.

Driving While Impaired or “DWI” can serve as what defense lawyers call a predicate offense for Felony Death by Vehicle, Manslaughter, and Murder charges.

Given the potential long-term consequences, such allegations deserve, as a part of legal representation, careful review of the accident scene and forensic evidence.