bonds and pretrial release

Greensboro Criminal Attorneys Are Concerned About Court Costs

In Criminal, Traffic by Greensboro Attorney

Greensboro criminal attorneys are concerned about court costs. The trend toward higher and higher costs continues, despite the fact that the criminal court system is the one branch of government that makes a profit.

Beginning December 1st, 2017, the legislature has made it more difficult for average people to survive economically if they have contact with the court system.

The first new rule involved restitution. Judges no longer have the ability to waive or modify restitution without following an onerous path of notification and hearings. G.S. 15A-1340.39 says that “[n]o court may remit all or part of an order of restitution entered pursuant to G.S. 15A-1340.34 without providing notice and an opportunity to be heard to the district attorney and the victim, victim’s estate, or any other entity to which the order directs restitution to be paid.”

The second rule has far greater ramifications to individuals charged from everything from misdemeanors, felonies and even traffic matters. G.S. 7A-304(a) has been changed to say that “[n]o court may waive or remit all or part of any court fines or costs without providing notice and opportunity to be heard by all government entities directly affected.” In reality, this is an impossible feat. Under the new rules, any waiver of costs would need to wait fifteen days so that notice may be given to all government agencies. A break down of the court costs shows that that could include everyone from the local Sheriff, to the general court system, the State of NC, the local county, and even the school system. Who would represent each entity? How would you prove that proper notice was given to each agency?

Politicians have handicapped merciful judges once again, and the loser, as always, is the good people of the general public. Greensboro defense lawyers will continue to help you navigate the courts, and work to save you as much money as possible. Call the Greensboro trial attorneys at 336-379-0539 today; we are here to help!  We are the best Greensboro criminal attorneys for your needs!