Public Defense Education

Series Content

Introduction and Resources

This video, presented by Professor Phil Dixon, provides contact information for the Office of Indigent Services, including the leadership team, financial services, statewide defender offices, and resource units, in addition to the Public Defense Education team here at the School of Government. 

Confrontation Clause Basics and Beyond (.75 hour general credit)

This session, presented by Professor Phil Dixon, covers the basic rules of admitting out of court statements in a criminal trial under the Confrontation Clause of the Sixth Amendment, including testimonial hearsay, nontestimonial statements, availability of witnesses, waiver and forfeiture of confrontation rights, and prior motive and opportunity for cross-examination.

Appeals Essentials for Trial Lawyers (1.0 hour general credit)

This session, presented by Professor Phil Dixon, reviews procedural rules and practical tips for seeking review of trial court decisions, including giving notice of appeal from district court to superior court, notice of appeal from superior court to the Court of Appeals, probation violation appeals, treatment court appeals, appeals by the state, appeals of preliminary indications, and review by certiorari.

The Law of Impaired Driving (1.0 hour general credit)

This session covers the substantive law of impaired driving. It begins with a general overview, then discusses reasonable suspicion and probable cause. It then covers implied consent testing, arrest processing, the elements of driving while impaired, and selected defenses.

DWI Procedure (.50 hour general credit)

This session covers criminal procedure for impaired driving offenses. It follows the path of a case from pretrial motions, to trial issues, to appeal and remand. It also addresses issues related to driver's licenses and vehicle seizures.

DWI Sentencing (.50 hour general credit)

This session covers sentencing for impaired driving offenses. It begins with a general overview. It then discusses sentencing hearings, determining the correct sentencing level, and additional sentencing issues. It also includes a few exercises for practice.

Common Evidence Issues in District Court (.75 hour general credit)

An overview of common evidence issues defenders face when handling misdemeanor cases in District Court. Topics include: introducing evidence, making objections, Confrontation, Rule 609, and authentication of video and digital evidence.

Continuing Legal Education Credit and Reporting

The School will report your credit to the North Carolina State Bar on your behalf. Reporting will occur every 15 days. If you have questions regarding reporting, please contact clecoordinator@sog.unc.edu.