For many people, the night before Thanksgiving is a chance to relax, reunite with old friends, and unwind before the holiday. But for law enforcement across North Carolina (especially Wilmington), it’s one of the busiest nights of the entire year. Commonly referred to as “Blackout Wednesday,” the night before Thanksgiving consistently sees spikes in DWI arrests, public intoxication calls, and late-night disturbances. If you or someone you care about is heading out for a night on the town, understanding why this time is so active with trouble can make [...]

Imagine you’re driving home from work and get pulled over for a routine traffic stop. The officer spots a small bottle of pills in your bag...but your name isn’t on the label. What might feel like a simple misunderstanding can quickly spiral into handcuffs, criminal charges, and a legal battle against the state of North Carolina. This isn’t just a legal problem; it’s a personal one. We’ve watched clients face the weight of criminal charges and the stress that follows. If you or someone you love is caught in [...]

If you’re facing criminal charges in North Carolina, there’s a chance a plea deal will come up during your case. And when it does, you’ll be faced with one of the most important decisions of your life: whether or not to take it. Here, at the Gross Law Group, we know how overwhelming and uncertain this process can feel. The stakes are high, the legal wording is intimidating, and the pressure to make the “right” choice can be paralyzing. That’s why we’re breaking down how plea deals actually work [...]

If you're living in North Carolina and still think you need a permit from the sheriff to buy a pistol, you're not alone. We’ve had several community members bring it up lately, and it turns out that many people haven’t heard the news. So let’s clear this up: as of March 29, 2023, you no longer need a sheriff-issued permit to purchase a handgun in North Carolina. Here at the Gross Law Group, we like to stay ahead of the curve, but we also know how easy it is [...]

No matter the reason, getting pulled over by police is a stressful experience. But if your license is suspended, that simple traffic stop can turn into something far more serious, fast. The Gross Law Group team understands how overwhelming it can be to face a charge like this, and we’re here to help guide you through it. If you’ve been charged with driving while your license was suspended or revoked in North Carolina, here’s what you need to know: What Does It Mean to Drive on a Suspended License? [...]

Few moments are more stressful than being pulled over, especially when law enforcement pushes to search your car. At the Gross Law Group, one of the most common questions we hear is: “Can police search my car for drugs without a warrant?” The short answer? Yes, under certain circumstances. But that doesn’t mean every search is legal, or that the evidence they find will hold up in court. Let’s break down your rights, the exceptions, and what you should do if you're pulled over in North Carolina: Your Car Is [...]

College is a time for new experiences, independence, and, let’s be honest, a few questionable decisions. But when those choices involve underage drinking or a fake ID, the consequences in North Carolina can be more serious than you might think. State laws are tough on underage alcohol offenses, and a conviction could lead to fines, a suspended license, or even a criminal record. Don’t let a fun night out turn into a long-term legal headache. Here’s all you need to know about NC’s underage drinking and fake ID laws—and, what [...]

When it comes to drug-related charges in North Carolina, the details matter—more than you may think. One of the biggest distinctions in our state's drug laws is the difference between possession and trafficking. While both charges are serious, trafficking carries much harsher penalties, even if the defendant had no intention of selling. Understanding the difference between the two can make or break your defense. Let's dive into these charges—their conditions, their penalties, and how the Gross Law Team can come to your defense. Drug Possession: What It Means and What’s [...]

In North Carolina, felony gun possession is a life-altering conviction. Our state's legal code consists of strict weapon laws and many defendants charged with firearm offenses don’t fully understand their rights—or just how high the stakes are. That's where the Gross Law Team comes in as your trusted advocate. A felony gun possession conviction can result in years behind bars, steep fines, and the loss of your right to own a firearm permanently. If you're in this situation, we're here to ensure you are aware of the costs, your rights, [...]

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and celebrations— a special moment each year when many return to childhood homes and see loved ones we've missed. For college students here in Wilmington, winter break often means heading back to other parts of North Carolina to reconnect and relax after a long semester. But as the season kicks into high gear, it’s also a time when students find themselves in legal trouble. The Gross Law Group is here to help you avoid common pitfalls and enjoy a safe, stress-free holiday [...]