Areas of Practice
- Liquor License, ABC permitting
Need a Liquor License or ABC Permit in North Carolina? After spending almost 8 years as counsel to the North Carolina ABC Commission, I began my private law practice in 1997. I have handled dozens of ABC permit applications for businesses large and small. My office has consistently met deadline after deadline for processing of licenses for many years. Despite the additional regulatory burdens that seem to be applied every few months, I intend to continue this record. My fees are reasonable and can be tailored to any client or situation to provide the best value for you. There is no charge for initial consultations.
- ABC Liquor License Violations
Have an issue with the ABC or the ALE? Being threatened with large fines and permit suspensions? I have handled well over 1000 ABC violation cases during my tenure with the ABC Commission and in private practice. I have handled cases for the largest ABC chain store retailers as well as single outlet operations, both on and off premises. My approach to these violations allows for good representation at a reasonable price that can be tailored to your personal situation. Did you know that the penalty can increase with each subsequent violation? Did you know that the penalties consistently increase over time? In my experience, you should analyze all violations for possible defenses, not just those violations where the penalty has become (nearly) unbearable. My novel approach to this situation can help you protect your permits in a cost effective manner. Contact me to discuss your case.
- Personnel and Employment Cases
Government is facing ever tightening resources. In addition, there are continuing problems in government with political and other patronage issues. In some cases, employees can be wrongfully terminated or suffer other negative personnel actions due to these and other factors. I offer a free initial phone consultation and a more advanced in person consultation for a reasonable fee. The government does have wide latitude in personnel matters and in many cases, it may not be worth pursuing your claim. However, every case is unique, and many cases can and should be pursued. If your claim is a good one, it is very important that you handle each step of the procedure correctly. Hiring a competent attorney early in the process rather than after the fact can make the difference between success and failure in a personnel case. Contact me to discuss your case.
- Traffic Cases and Criminal Cases
Have a traffic ticket in North Carolina? Been charged with a criminal offense? You will receive many letters from attorneys advertising their services. These letters and the advice you get from friends can be confusing. The Courts in North Carolina have continued to streamline operations. Based on the charges and your past history, the prosecutor often offers standard resolutions in all but the most serious cases. The system is generally not as trial friendly as it used to be, regardless of the facts of your case. Nevertheless, you need an attorney that will look at your specific case and be prepared to go to trial if necessary. I promise to consider your individual situation and help find the best resolution for you, not just the most convenient solution. I will do so at a fair price.
- Administrative, Zoning, Land Use and Government Cases
The government has its own lawyers. The authorities have wide latitude to impose their will on you or your business. Sometimes this is done unfairly in violation of the law. I have over twenty years experience in the administrative law field. I can help you work within the system to deal with the complicated processes or outside the system in the courthouse if that is necessary to protect your rights. As always, we will work toward cost effective solutions to your issues, while zealously asserting your right to be treated fairly and equitably by the regulatory agencies. Again, when dealing with the government, having an attorney earlier in the process can be the key to formulating a successful strategy.
- Estate Law/Wills
Dealing with family matters after the death of a loved one can be most trying. I can work with you at various interaction levels from handling specific issues to full estate administration. While many choose to handle these matters personally, good legal advice can be the cornerstone of successful administration of an estate, especially where multiple beneficiaries are involved. I can also work with you to prepare wills and other estate planning documents.
- Other Practice Areas
I handle business and corporate law including real estate, personal injury, and most any other type of work except custody, tax, securities and patent.. Contact me with your issues and I will work with you if I can, or refer you to someone I know personally to handle your matter if possible.