In Monday’s post, Jeff mentioned the expanded authority for license plate readers included in the state budget. News stories this week exemplify arguments on both sides of the issue of expanded use of cameras and other law enforcement technologies. WRAL reported...
NC Criminal Law
A misdemeanor statement of charges is a criminal pleading prepared by the prosecutor, charging a misdemeanor. A statement of charges is a type of pleading, but is not a form of process, and cannot be used to initiate a prosecution and compel the defendant to appear. See G.S. 15A-922(b)(1).
The superior court has jurisdiction to accept a guilty plea to a misdemeanor tendered in lieu of a felony charge.
A judge must accept a plea arrangement that involves only charges and no sentence recommendation, as long as the judge determines the plea is the product of an informed choice of the defendant and there is a factual basis for the plea. See G.S. 15A-1023(c).
A defendant may plead guilty or not guilty, or, with the consent of the prosecutor and judge, may plead “no contest.” See G.S. 15A-1011(a), (b).
When a conviction or sentence imposed in superior court has been set aside on direct review or collateral attack, a judge may not impose a new sentence for the same offense, or for a different offense based on the same conduct, that is more severe. G.S. 15A-1335.
- ‹ Previous
- 3 of 12
- Next ›