Crime scene board with string and photos; bold title overlays on a gritty background, hinting investigation.

If you’re facing accusations of being an accessory to murder in North Carolina, you need to understand how state law treats these serious charges. The consequences can be severe, and the legal distinctions between different types of accessory charges can dramatically affect your case outcome.

Read the rest of this entry »
Woman faces a man in a dim room with text asking when a killing is considered murder in self-defense in NC

Taking another person’s life is among the most serious acts under North Carolina law. However, not every killing constitutes murder. When someone acts in genuine self-defense, North Carolina law recognizes that the use of deadly force may be justified. Understanding when a killing crosses from justified self-defense into criminal murder requires examining North Carolina’s specific statutes and the circumstances surrounding the incident.

If you or a loved one faces questions about a self-defense incident in North Carolina, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The difference between a justified act of self-defense and a murder charge can mean the difference between walking free and facing life in prison or even the death penalty.

Read the rest of this entry »
Silhouette in tunnel with bold text: “What misdemeanors disqualify you from owning a gun in NC” on bold blue overlay.

If you’re facing misdemeanor charges in North Carolina, you need to know how these charges might affect your gun rights. While most people know felonies can take away your right to own guns, certain misdemeanors can also make it illegal for you to own or possess firearms under both federal and North Carolina laws.

Read the rest of this entry »
Bronze Lady Justice statue beside bold text “What Is Misdemeanor Larceny in NC?” on a blue background.

Misdemeanor larceny is a type of theft crime in North Carolina that’s less serious than felony larceny. Both involve taking someone else’s property, but it’s important to know the difference if you’re facing theft charges in North Carolina.

Read the rest of this entry »

If you or someone you know has been charged with having a gun as a felon in North Carolina, you’re facing serious legal trouble. As Patrick Roberts Law, we’ve helped many clients deal with these gun laws and protect their rights. This guide explains what you need to know about possession of firearm by felon in North Carolina, the possible punishments, and how you might defend against these charges.

Read the rest of this entry »
City skyline with sunset and traffic trails behind bold text “Misdemeanor Death by Vehicle in NC” on a blue overlay

What Is Misdemeanor Death by Vehicle in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, misdemeanor death by vehicle happens when:

  1. Someone accidentally causes another person’s death
  2. They were breaking a traffic law (not including drunk driving)
  3. Breaking this traffic law directly caused the death

According to North Carolina law (G.S. § 20-141.4(a2)), this might involve running a red light, speeding, or other traffic violations that lead to a fatal accident. This is different from felony death by vehicle, which involves driving while impaired under G.S. § 20-138.1 or G.S. § 20-138.2.

Read the rest of this entry »

Larceny vs. Theft: What’s the Difference in North Carolina?

If you’ve been charged with a property crime in North Carolina, you might be confused about the terms “larceny” and “theft.” Here’s what you need to know:

Larceny is the official legal term North Carolina uses in its laws for taking someone else’s property without permission. According to North Carolina law, larceny is typically a Class H felony unless stated otherwise (N.C.G.S. § 14-70).

Theft is the everyday term most people use, but you won’t find it specifically defined in North Carolina law books. Instead, the courts and legal documents use “larceny” for what most people call “theft.”

In simple terms: larceny is North Carolina’s legal word for theft.

Read the rest of this entry »

Understanding Assault Charges in North Carolina

Many people facing assault charges in North Carolina ask: “Is assault a felony in North Carolina?” The answer isn’t simple, as assault can be either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the details of what happened. Understanding these differences is important for anyone facing assault charges in the state.

North Carolina law (specifically sections § 14-33 through § 14-34.2) outlines different levels of assault charges and their penalties. This guide will explain when assault is treated as a misdemeanor and when it’s considered a more serious felony offense in North Carolina.

Read the rest of this entry »

Facing a simple assault charge in North Carolina can be scary. You might worry about jail time, fines, and how a conviction could hurt your future. The good news is that there are many ways to fight these charges. As North Carolina defense lawyers who have helped many clients in your position, we’ve put together this guide to help you understand your options.

Read the rest of this entry »

Car accidents that cause someone’s death can lead to serious criminal charges in North Carolina. One of the most serious charges is called felony death by vehicle. This is a severe charge that can result in years in prison and change your life forever.

Read the rest of this entry »