Bill Powers

Top rated DUI-DWI attorney in Charlotte, North Carolina

Powers Law Firm PA
Bill Powers
Powers Law Firm PA

Practice Areas: DUI-DWI, Criminal Defense, Family Law; view more

Licensed in North Carolina since: 1992

Education: Campbell University Norman Adrian Wiggins School of Law

Selected to Super Lawyers: 2007 - 2025
Virtual Appointments

Powers Law Firm PA

2412 Arty Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28208 Visit website

Details

Bill Powers is a courtroom lawyer and advocate for justice. He helps clients with a wide range of legal matters, including criminal defense, DUI/DWI charges, family law / collaborative divorce, and personal injury and wrongful death cases.   

Mr. Powers is a recipient of the North Carolina State Bar Distinguished Service Award. He regularly speaks at continuing legal education events and is the author of the North Carolina DWI Quick Reference Guide, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to education and the legal profession.

Bill believes in a holistic approach to legal practice, applying his broad range of experience from various practice areas. In the courtroom, Mr. Powers is known for his advocacy and compassionate approach. 

Beyond his legal practice, Mr. Powers has served as president of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice and is a founding member of the Center for Legal Education and Advocacy.

He is a board-certified criminal law specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy / National Board of Legal Specialty Certification and has been peer-reviewed rated AV Preeminent* by Martindale-Hubbell.  *AV Preeminent is a certification mark of Reed Elsevier Properties Inc., used in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies.

Bill Powers is listed individually within The 2024 Best Lawyers in America© publication for his work as an attorney and also has been included as a "Lawyer of the Year" in the following:  

Powers Law Firm PA is also included in the 2024 U.S. News & World Report – Best Lawyers  ® “Best Law Firms” publication.  

Bill Powers is a recipient of the North Carolina State Bar DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD 

Bill is a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy / National Board of Legal Specialty Certification 

Bill is a Member of the Charlotte Collaborative Divorce Professionals and the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals

Bill is an Advisory Member of the North Carolina State Bar Ethics Committee and the North Carolina Governors Impaired Driving Task Force.   

Bill Powers is the founder of the Powers Law Firm PA in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Bill Powers helps clients with:

  • Criminal Defense:  Serious Felonies and General Misdemeanors
  • DWI DUI Impaired Driving Defense
  • Traffic Offenses / Traffic Court:  Speeding, Reckless Driving, DMV and Moving Violations
  • Family Law - Collaborative Divorce, Legal Separation, Equitable Distribution, Child Custody, and Child Support
  • Complex Wrongful Death Claims - Alcohol-Related Injuries, Wrecks, and Fatalities 

The National Trial Lawyers has included Bill Powers in "Top 100 Trial Lawyers" in North Carolina in 2024.  www.nationaltriallawyers.org/profile-view/Bill/Powers/5071/

Attorney Powers has also been listed in Business North Carolina Magazine, Legal Elite 2024

Bill was admitted to practice in North Carolina in 1992.

For more information regarding membership information and criterion for inclusion to Best Lawyers in America / US NEWS & WORLD REPORT see:  https://www.bestlawyers.com/lawyers/bill-powers/78562/

Best Lawyers - Selection Process - Methodology 

Super Lawyers Selection Process Detail 

MORE INFO on BestLawyers.com

MORE INFO: NBTA Criminal Law Specialist Bill Powers

MORE INFO: The National Trial Lawyers - "TOP 100 TRIAL LAWYERS" - Bill Powers

Practice areas

Criminal Defense: DUI/DWI, Criminal Defense, Family Law, Personal Injury - General: Plaintiff

Focus areas

Adoption, Alimony & Spousal Support, Animal Bites, Arrest & Arraignment, Assault, Assault & Battery, Brain Injury, Child Support, Construction Accident, Criminal Domestic Violence, Criminal Fraud, Criminal Law, Custody & Visitation, DUI/DWI, Dissolution, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Dram Shop Laws, Drug & Alcohol Violations, Expungement, Failure to Pay Child Support, False Accusations, Father's Rights, Felony, Juvenile Delinquency, Juvenile Law, Marital Property, Mediation & Collaborative Law, Misdemeanor, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Motor Vehicle Offenses, Murder, Name Change, Overdrawn Bank Account, Parole, Paternity, Personal Injury - Defense, Personal Injury - Plaintiff, Premises Liability - Plaintiff, Prenuptial Agreements, Probation, Prosecution, Same Sex Family Law, Sex Offenses, Sexual Abuse - Plaintiff, Slip and Fall, Tax Evasion, Theft, Toxic Mold, Traffic Violations, Trucking Accidents, Wrongful Death

  • 50% Criminal Defense: DUI/DWI
  • 30% Criminal Defense
  • 10% Family Law
  • 10% Personal Injury - General: Plaintiff

First Admitted: 1992, North Carolina

Professional Webpage: https://www.carolinaattorneys.com/bill-powers.html

Bar/Professional Activity:
  • North Carolina Impaired Driving Task Force Name: Mark Ezzell Title: Director & Governor’s Representative for Highway Safety Organization: NC Governor's Highway Safety Program Email: [email protected], 2019
  • IACP – International Association of Collaborative Professionals, Member
  • North Carolina Impaired Driving Task Force Name: Mark Ezzell Title: Director & Governor’s Representative for Highway Safety Organization: NC Governor's Highway Safety Program Email: [email protected], 2021
  • North Carolina Impaired Driving Task Force Name: Mark Ezzell Title: Director & Governor’s Representative for Highway Safety Organization: NC Governor's Highway Safety Program Email: [email protected], 2020
  • North Carolina Impaired Driving Task Force Name: Mark Ezzell Title: Director & Governor’s Representative for Highway Safety Organization: NC Governor's Highway Safety Program Email: [email protected], 2022
  • North Carolina Impaired Driving Task Force Name: Mark Ezzell Title: Director & Governor’s Representative for Highway Safety Organization: NC Governor's Highway Safety Program Email: [email protected], 2023
  • North Carolina Impaired Driving Task Force Name: Mark Ezzell Title: Director & Governor’s Representative for Highway Safety Organization: NC Governor's Highway Safety Program Email: [email protected], 2024
  • Advisory Member - Ethics Committee - The North Carolina State Bar Darren Jordan - Past-President Ethics Committee Contact: Brian Oten [email protected], 2022
  • Advisory Member - Ethics Committee - The North Carolina State Bar Marcia Armstrong - Past-President Ethics Committee Contact: Brian Oten [email protected], 2023
  • Advisory Member - Ethics Committee - The North Carolina State Bar Ethics Committee Contact: Brian Oten [email protected] Members Dorothy Hairston Mitchell, Chair F. Davis Poisson III, Vice-Chair David N. Allen Julie L. Bell Takiya Lewis Blalock Ashley H. Campbell Judge George M. Cleland Jeffrey B. Foster Nancy Grace Anna R. Hamrick Wade Harrison Kevin Joseph Kiernan Judge Thomas Langan John Leidy Craig Lynch Wayne L. Michaels Gena Graham Morris Michael R. Ramos Eben T. Rawls III William F. Rogers Jr. Warren T. Savage IV Jay Vannoy Public Member Patricia “Patti” Head Advisory Members Lamar Armstrong III Sydney Batch Heidi Bloom Stacy Cordes Tara Gore Elizabeth Willoughby Harrell Elizabeth Johnson Ellen Murphy Fran Muse Christina F. Pearsall Bill Powers Martin Scott Eddie Thomas Lori Vitale Staff Liaisons Suzanne Lever Nichole McLaughlin Brian Oten, 2024
  • North Carolina Criminal Law CLE: Compendium of Need-to-Know Topics Seminar Chair / Co-Hosts Need a break from the practice? Plan a mini-vacation in Wilmington, North Carolina! This seminar, one of the Southeast’s preeminent and most distinguished, offers not only quality-content CLE, it provides the attendee with downtime to mix and mingle and trade war stories with other criminal defense attorneys from North Carolina. Due to the limited capacity of the seminar, register early!, 2022
  • DUI Defense Lawyers Association - Fall Seminar Atlanta - Speaker/Presenter September 28 - 30, 2023 Atlanta, GA Omni Hotel at the Battery 2625 Cir 75 Pkwy SE, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 | (678) 567-7327 Effective Plea Negotiations - Bill Powers & John Fanneuy "Stealing Home" Saturday: [330 minutes – 5.50 Hrs (60 min), 6.60 (50 min)] 8:15 am – 8:45 am Light Breakfast 8:45 am – 9:00 am Announcements (Greg Willis, Course Director) 9:00 am – 9:45 am Tie Goes to the Runner: Client Mitigation Evidence (Jan Vogelsang, LISW-CP, BCD – GA) 9:45 am – 10:30 am Stealing Home: Effective Plea Negotiations (Bill Powers, JD – NC & John Fanney, JD – NC) 10:30 am – 11:30 am Unsportsmanlike Conduct: Exploring Bias & Professionalism in DUI Cases (Denise Childress, JD – MO) 11:30 am – 11:45 am BREAK (Heavy snacks!) 11:45 am – 12:15 pm Diamond Sponsor: Intoxalock: Equipment Check: NTSB Required Alcohol Monitoring Systems, Part 1 12:15 am – 12:45 pm Equipment Check: NTSB Required Alcohol Monitoring Systems, Part 2 (John Bateman, JD – SC) 12:45 pm – 1:30 pm Calling Fouls: Identifying Civil Rights Violations in DUI Cases & Filing Suit (Sarah Schielke, JD – CO) 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm Defense Hall of Fame: The Past, Present & Future of DUI (Bubba Head, JD – GA, Tim Huey, JD – OH, Mark Thiessen, JD – TX, Deandra Grant, JD – TX) 2:45 pm Final Wrap up (Course Directors), 2023
  • NCAJ DUI Seminar - Program Chair - Bill Powers Program Chair - Bill Powers "From Novice to Pro: Advancing Your DWI Defense Proficiency" North Carolina Advocates for Justice - NCAJ Headquarters, 701 Corporate Center Drive, Suite 450, Raleigh NC Program Titles and Supporting Materials This program contains the following components: From Novice to Pro: Advancing Your DWI Defense Proficiency - Handout If I Throw You a Lifeline, Take It – PI Lawyer’s Perspective on DWI Charges - Video Beyond the Echo Chamber: Understanding the Prosecutorial Philosophy - Video Plea Negotiations in North Carolina: There Are No Facts, Only Interpretations - Video Drug Impaired Driving: SFST Refresher & Tips - Video The DWI Exception to the Constitution – Lessons Learned from 35 Years in the Trenches - Video Forensic Toxicology & Your Case: What You Need to Know - Video Case Law Update - Video Ethics for the Criminal Law Practitioner - Video, 2024
  • Board of Governors, NCAJ., 2010
  • Former President, North Carolina Advocates for Justice - Attorney at Law Magazine - Article "Bill Powers: Leadership is a Higher Duty" - Publication Date June 1, 2018 (President from June 2016 - June 2017) A Continuing Pursuit of Justice - Fundamental Fairness NCAJ has long been active in the fight to make laws fair for all people and to rid our justice system of systemic bias. Our work with the North Carolina Commission on Racial and Ethnic Disparities in the Criminal Justice System (NCCRED), NCAJ’s Task Force on Mass Incarceration and the creation of NCAJ’s Hispanic/Latino Division and the NCAJ Women’s Caucus are a few examples of our commitment to this cause. In 2017, NCAJ president Bill Powers established the President’s Diversity Task Force. The group aimed to bring an intentional focus on issues of diversity, inclusion and equity to the inner workings of NCAJ. It continues its work today as the standing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. Among the group’s accomplishments: Addition of a diversity officer, now diversity, equity & inclusion vice president, to the NCAJ Executive Committee Creation and adoption of a diversity statement, affirming that “NCAJ is resolute in its dedication to liberty and justice for all, and to a diverse and inclusive community that extends those rights to — and recognizes the humanity of — everyone.” Adoption of a diversity plan for NCAJ in 2017 Presentation of the annual Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Conference each fall Creation of the Speaker Diversity Program including the Speaker Diversity Database, a resource for NCAJ CLE programmers Co-sponsoring of the N.C. Lawyers Assistance Program Minority Outreach Conference Winning a 2019 Diversity & Inclusion Award from North Carolina Lawyers Weekly in recognition of NCAJ’s work to change the culture and advance diversity and inclusion within the legal profession Launch of the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Book Club with a discussion of “The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America” by Richard Rothstein in April 2021 Drafted the NCAJ Statement on Confederate Monuments approved by the NCAJ Board of Governors in January 2022, which supports the work of NC CRED to remove Confederate Monuments from courthouse grounds across the state In December 2022, the NCAJ Executive Committee voted to change the Diversity & Inclusion Committee’s formal title to “Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee” to better reflect NCAJ’s commitment to embodying these ideals throughout all facets of the organization. In March 2023, NCAJ led members of the NEXT Leadership Program, Board of Governors, professional staff and others through an immersive Diversity, Equity & Inclusion program on the 1898 Wilmington Massacre on site in Wilmington. It was the first in a series of DEI initiatives funded by a Cy Pres Award from NCAJ member Dan Bryson of Milberg Coleman Bryson Phillips Grossman, PLLC. In April 2023, NCAJ partnered with NC CRED to sponsor Undue Harm: Undoing the Legacy of Confederate Monuments at Shaw University. While achieving these milestones, the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee has consistently sought to spread throughout NCAJ an awareness of systemic bias and to provide ways for members and leaders to address and change the culture of the organization. Coordinating editors of our quarterly “Trial Briefs” magazine have focused on topics such as the #MeToo Movement and how LGBTQ Rights and Immigrant Rights affect various practice areas. A series of free member webinars, begun in 2020 by the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, explores a wide variety of topics including immigration issues, disability rights, educator sexual misconduct, addressing racial inequality in civil and criminal matters, cultural change in the justice system, recognizing mental illness and work-life balance. NCAJ’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee realizes that the struggle for fairness and equity continues, and the group will continue its work in myriad ways by paying vigilant attention to matters of diversity, inclusion and equity in everything NCAJ does., 2017
  • U.S. District Court Western District of North Carolina, 1994
  • DUI Defense Lawyers Association DUI Defense Lawyers Association - FOUNDING MEMBER The DUIDLA was founded on principles of transparency, freedom of speech, synergy, and democracy. Our goal is to provide education and support to our members who in turn protect, and ensure by rule of law, the individual rights of their clients in DUI-related cases, nationwide. Learn We are strongly committed to the principle that through enhanced expertise and competencies, our members will be better prepared in dealing with these often-complex cases. Everything we do – from our regional and national seminars to our ongoing commitment to member resources and continuing education – is designed to enhance our member’s practices. Your annual membership also provides special pricing to DUIDLA hosted seminars and includes a 1-year subscription to Counterpoint – The Journal of Science and the Law. Stay informed We provide support, resources, and education to our members from the nation’s top DUI attorneys. Your membership in the DUIDLA will help give you the knowledge you need in defending these scientifically and technically challenging cases. Members have exclusive access to our Virtual Library, which contains learned treatises, scientific articles, briefs, and transcripts relevant to DUI Practice. Share Be a part of our active listserv for research and information. You will have access to hundreds of DUI specialist lawyers from across the country, and the many local and national experts who also contribute. Connect Members have access to other DUI lawyers across the country through our online member network and searchable database., 2024
  • Vice President of Communications / Executive Committee, North Carolina Advocates for Justice, 2015
  • Wisconsin, 2001
  • U.S. District Court Western District of Michigan, 1992
  • North Carolina Bar Association, 1992
  • U.S. District Court Eastern District of Michigan, 1992
  • Program Chair, Criminal Masters of Advocacy, North Carolina Advocates for Justice. Summer Convention, Wilmington, NC, 2011
Videos:
  • Elevate your DWI defense skills with this powerhouse CLE seminar in Raleigh on February 9th! Join some of North Carolina's most respected DWI lawyers: Keynote Speaker David Teddy: The DWI Exception to the Constitution – Lessons Learned from 35 Years in the Trenches John Fanney: Plea Negotiations in North Carolina: There Are No Facts, Only Interpretations Les Robinson: Case Law Update Matt Silva: Beyond the Echo Chamber: Understanding the Prosecutorial Philosophy Chris Nichols: If I Throw You a Lifeline, Take It – PI Lawyer’s Perspective on DWI Charges Brian Oten, Director for Ethics and Special Programs, NC State Bar: Ethics for the Criminal Law Practitioner Plus, gain invaluable insights from: Paige Gardner, M.S., CCBI Forensic Toxicologist: Forensic Toxicology & Your Case: What You Need to Know Forensic and Drug Impaired Driving Dexterity Expert Doug Scott: Drug Impaired Driving: SFST Refresher & Tips This isn't just a CLE, it's an investment in your DWI defense arsenal. Discover cutting-edge strategies and win-proven tactics. Gain insights from some of the most knowledgeable and widely respected professionals in the business, honed over years of experience. When: Friday, February 9, 2024 Where: NCAJ Headquarters, Raleigh NC 701 Corporate Center Drive, Suite 450 Raleigh, NC 27607 (919) 832-1413 [email protected] 7.0 CLE hours (1.0 ethics) Network and build your professional network. Enjoy a complementary lunch and comfortable learning environment. Seating is limited, so register now and secure your spot! Click here to register All Seminar is hosted by the North Carolina Advocates for Justice and is for DWI Defense Lawyers, NCAJ Public Service Members, NCAJ Paralegal Members, Full Time Judges, Law School Students (must be NCAJ member) and Judicial Law Clerk. This is a continuing legal education seminar for DWI defense lawyers. SEE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS in the link provided. Don't miss this opportunity to level up your DWI defense skills and connect with some incredible folks. Travel/Accommodations: Hotels Near NCAJ Headquarters Hyatt Place Raleigh/Cary (across the street from NCAJ) 710 Corporate Center Dr, Raleigh, NC 27607, (919) 233-2205 Home2Suites Raleigh/State Arena (across the street from NCAJ) 6825 Chapel Hill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607, (919) 863-9330 Raleigh Marriott Crabtree (5.5 miles from NCAJ) 4500 Marriott Drive, Raleigh, North Carolina 27612, (919.781-7000) Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh/Crabtree (5.8 miles from NCAJ) 3920 Arrow Dr, Raleigh, NC 27612, (919) 881-7080 #DWIdefense #lawyers #CLE #continuinglegaleducation #DWICLE #legaled #legaleducation #ncaj #ncadvocates for justice #programchair #billpowers #speakers #davidteddy #johnfanney #lesrobinson #mattsilva #paigegardner #dougscott #DWI #northcarolina #education #lawyers #attorneys, From Novice to Pro: Advancing Your DWI Defense Proficiency, Law, Attorneys, 2024
  • Getting pulled over by the police can be a stressful and intimidating experience. In this video, we'll share the truth about traffic stops and give you some tips on how to handle yourself in this situation. Learn what to do and what not to do when interacting with cops so you can stay safe and avoid any unnecessary trouble. Don't miss this important video! Do you have to show your license? Should you ask for a supervisor? How do retrieve your license and registration? #video #POLICE #COURT #CRIME #TRAFFIC #TRAFFICSTOP #northcarolina #billpowers #lawyer #attorney #probablecause #copsgetowned, The Truth About Getting Pulled Over, 2024
Special Licenses/Certifications:
  • Board-Certified in Criminal Law (Accredited by the National Board of Trial Advocacy) National Board of Legal Specialty Certification The National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC) was originally founded in 1977, as the first American Bar Association ("ABA") certification board. The organization was formerly known as the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA). The name was changed to the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification (NBLSC) in 2006. At that time, the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) became a division of NBLSC. In 2015, the organization changed its name back to the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA). Find more information here: National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA). From 2006 until 2015, the NBLSC was one of the largest national attorney specialty certification programs. Overall, it was the fourth-largest certification program. The NBLSC was accredited by the ABA to certify attorneys in five specialty areas of law that pertain to trial advocacy including criminal trial advocacy, civil trial advocacy, family trial advocacy, social security disability trial advocacy, and civil pretrial practice. More than 2,400 attorneys were certified by the NBLSC. Eleven states formally-approved NBLSC certification, including Alabama, California, Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Texas. Several other states have rules that formally recognize agencies accredited by the ABA, including Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Maine, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, and Wisconsin. Bill Powers Law Firm PA Certification Type Criminal Trial Law Address 2412 Arty Avenue Charlotte, NC 28208 704-342-4357 [email protected] NBTA Lawyers: Who We Are: The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) is a nonprofit organization devoted to improving the quality of trial advocacy and aiding consumers in their selection of experienced legal representation. NBTA offers board certification in Civil Trial Law, Civil Practice Advocacy, Complex Litigation, Criminal Trial Law, Family Trial Law, Patent Litigation, Social Security Disability Law and Truck Accident Law. Our mission is to inform and educate the public concerning legal representation by board certified specialists. And to recognize and promote excellence in legal advocacy through a national program certifying specialists predicated on high standards of demonstrated competence and integrity., 2024
Pro bono/Community Service:
  • Center for Legal Education and Advocacy (CLEA), Founding Member
Honors/Awards:
  • Distinguished Service Award - The North Carolina State Bar The John B. McMillan Distinguished Service Award program honors current and retired members of the North Carolina State Bar throughout the state who have demonstrated exemplary service to the legal profession. (For more information about the award, read this Journal article.) Members of the Bar are encouraged to nominate colleagues who have demonstrated outstanding service to the profession. The nomination form is available here. Please direct questions to Suzanne Lever at the State Bar office in Raleigh, (919) 828-4620. Past Winners Click here to view a list of past DSA recipients. Award Criteria The Distinguished Service Award committee evaluates nominees based on, but not limited to, the following criteria: Cultivating knowledge of the law beyond its use for clients, employing that knowledge in reform of the law, and working to strengthen legal education. Furthering the public's understanding of and confidence in the rule of law and the justice system. Devoting professional time and resources and providing civic leadership to ensure equal access to our system of justice for all those who, because of economic or social barriers, cannot afford or secure adequate legal counsel. Aiding the legal profession by helping the bar regulate itself in the public interest and by seeking to improve the administration of justice and the quality of services rendered by the legal profession. Providing professional services at no fee or a reduced fee to persons of limited means or to public service or charitable groups or organizations, by service in activities for improving the law, society, the legal system or the legal profession, and providing financial support for organizations that provide legal services to persons of limited means. Treating opposing counsel with courtesy and respect; encouraging and counseling peers by providing advice and mentoring; and fostering civility among members of the bar. Promoting diversity and diverse participation within the legal profession. 2020 Recipients Victor J. Boone - Raleigh Edward G. (Woody) Connette - Charlotte John N. (Nick) Fountain - Raleigh Ashley L. Hogewood Jr. - Charlotte Douglas Carmichael (Mike) McIntyre II - Raleigh Bill Powers, Charlotte, North Carolina State Bar, 2020
  • The National Trial Lawyers has included Bill Powers in "Top 100 Trial Lawyers" in North Carolina, 2020
  • Martindale-Hubbell lists Bill Powers as an AV "Preeminent Lawyer" 2010 – 2020
  • "Top 100 Lawyers in North Carolina" lists by Super Lawyers
  • "Top 25 Lawyers in Charlotte", 2021
  • Super Lawyers North Carolina for 15 years, 2007-2021
  • Peer-Review Rated AV Preeminent* (through Martindale-Hubbell)
  • Bill Powers has been included in different publications** including: Best Lawyers "Lawyer of the Year" DUI/DWI Defense Charlotte, North Carolina 2022 Best Lawyers "Lawyer of the Year" DUI/DWI Defense Charlotte, North Carolina 2020 Best Lawyers "Lawyer of the Year" Criminal Defense: General Practice Charlotte, North Carolina 2017 Super Lawyers has included Bill Powers in the 2023 North Carolina Super Lawyers Magazine and Top 100 in North Carolina - 2023 North Carolina Super Lawyers Top 25 in Charlotte - 2023 North Carolina Super Lawyers Bill Powers is a recipient of the Distinguished Service Award by the North Carolina State Bar Bill Powers is an Advisory Member of the North Carolina State Bar Ethics Committee 2022, 2023, 2024 Powers Law Firm PA selected for inclusion in the U.S. News Best Lawyers "Best Law Firms" in 2010 - 2024. Bill has also been included individually in the publication Best Lawyers in America since 2010. Bill Powers is a Past President of North Carolina Advocates for Justice 2016 - 2017 ncaj.com Bill Powers is a Charlotte Collaborative Divorce Professionals He handles Criminal Defense matters, including general misdemeanors and serious felonies, DWI DUI Impaired Driving cases, Family Law, Divorce, Collaborative Divorce, Custody Disputes, Equitable Distribution, and complex personal injury and wrongful death claims. Bill is a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy / National Board of Legal Specialty Certification Founding Member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association Included in Business North Carolina Magazine, "Legal Elite 2024" Bill was admitted to practice in North Carolina in 1992., "Best Lawyers In America" - US News & World Report, 2022
  • see: www.NCAJ.com, Order of Service, North Carolina Advocates for Justice, 2006
  • Avvo Client / Attorney Rating (www.AVVO.com) Bill Powers Open for Business Open for business Attorneys that have confirmed to Avvo that they are open during this time are marked "Open for business" on their profile. We recommend that you contact the attorney directly to determine hours and availability. Virtual Consultation Virtual Consultation Attorneys that have confirmed to Avvo that they are available for a phone or video consultation have "Virtual Consultation" on their profile. We recommend that you contact the attorney directly to determine hours and availability. Attorney Save 186 reviews Avvo Rating: 10.0 Licensed for 31 years Compassionate Champion for Justice - Tenacious Courtroom Advocacy Practice area 40% DUI & DWI, 40% Criminal Defense, 15% Family and more License NC, Active since 1992 Bill Powers - Avvo Profile, Avvo - Attorney Profile - Bill Powers, 2024
  • www.NCAJ.com, Ebbie Award, North Carolina Advocates for Justice, 2008
  • While we have the “Ebbie Awards” which recognize members who go above and beyond in their commitment, dedication and service to the NCAJ, the Order of Service is a broader recognition of members who have given generously of their time and talent to the NCAJ by serving a minimum of two areas. These areas include amicus brief writing, writing manuscripts and speaking at CLE seminars, coaching a mock trial team or otherwise significantly serving our mock trial program, actively serving on committees, writing articles for Trial Briefs, chairing educational programs, writing for various publication projects of the NCAJ, chairing sections or divisions, among other things. The goal of this recognition is to let those of you who give so much of your time, know how much we appreciate you and to encourage others to join your ranks!, Order of Service, North Carolina Advocates for Justice, 2010
  • Martindale-Hubbell "AV" Rating, Bar Register of Pre-Eminent Lawyers (www.Martindale.com), Martindale-Hubbell, 2017
Educational Background:
  • North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, B.A. in Political Science, Cum Laude, 1988
Scholarly Lectures/Writings:
  • The North Carolina DWI Quick Reference Guide is provided free of charge to legal professionals and law enforcement in North Carolina. The NC DWI Quick Reference Guide is a compendium of reference materials involving: NC DWI Laws National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Protocols Approved Alcohol Detection Devices Sentencing Chart Download a Free Copy of the 2024 NC DWI Quick Reference Guide, Self Published, Law, Attorneys, 2024
  • Teddy's North Carolina DWI Trial Notebook Teddy's North Carolina DWI Trial Notebook covers the relevant laws for representing clients charged with DWI in North Carolina and provides a step-by-step trial notebook - fingertip access to the most important statutes, regulations, and case law related to DWI defense., Chapter Author: Proving Blood Alcohol Concentration, Law, Attorneys, Legal Professionals, 2017
  • Ethics for Appointed Counsel Continuing Legal Education - HOST: Mecklenburg Public Defender's Office 21 Ethics Tips for 2021, Speaker / Presenter, Mecklenburg Public Defender's Office, Law, Attorneys, Legal Professionals, 2021
  • The High Point Bar Association Presents “Back in the Saddle Again” High Point Bar Association - Continuing Legal Education Speaker / Presenter TOPIC: Techspertise for Criminal Trial Attorneys - Ethics Tips & Technology The High Point Bar Association Presents “Back in the Saddle Again”. February 4, 2022, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.7 hours of CLE Credit (includes 1 hour of technology and 1 hour of ethics and substance abuse) Located at the High Point Country Club (800 Country Club Drive, High Point, NC 27262) Seminar Host / Chair: Georgia Spiros Nixon, Speaker / Presenter, https://www.highpointbarassociation.com/high-point-bar-cle/, Law, Attorneys, Legal Professionals, 2022
  • I Lost a Client North Carolina State Bar Journal - Summer 2019 Let’s call him Andrew. We spent some time together last week. Quick to smile, self-deprecating, and genuinely appreciative as a client, I’ve liked him from the start. I could immediately see Andrew was agitated, but most people wouldn’t have picked up on that. I gave him a head nod, and we silently walked out of the courtroom and into the hallway to talk., Author, I Lost a Client, The North Carolina State Bar Journal, Law, Legal Professionals, 2019
  • The Wilmington Ten - Starting a Conversation North Carolina State Bar Journal - Spring 2022 Highlighting the notorious, yet relatively unknown, case of the Wilmington Ten and its impact on North Carolina Jurisprudence. As lawyers, it is incumbent upon us to educate ourselves regarding our history, including the negative aspects of our collective past. That is particularly true when lawyers and the legal profession are tied in an inseparable nexus with that history, be it good or bad. In researching the topic, we have been honored to personally consult with some of the living legends involved in the case of the Wilmington Ten, including criminal defense attorneys par excellence James “Fergie” Ferguson and Irving Joyner. We also spoke with former NC Supreme Court Justice Mark Davis, who served as legal counsel for Governor Beverly Purdue when she issued a pardon of innocence to the Wilmington Ten in 2012. Recently retired Honorable Jesse Caldwell III provided invaluable insights into the humanity of James “Jay” Stroud, the prosecutor assigned to the matters. We have purposely not reached out to the still-living individuals comprising the Wilmington Ten. Their pain remains palpable, and we did not want to exacerbate it by asking them to reflect on their experiences. We’ve read about and, therefore, respect their expressed desire to be left alone and to tell or not tell their individual stories as they see fit., Co-Author, The Wilmington Ten - Starting a Conversation, The North Carolina State Bar Journal, Law, Attorneys, Legal Professionals, 2021
  • Courtroom Preparation & Defense Perspective - SFST's for Law Enforcement, Speaker / Presenter: Standardized Field Sobriety Testing - Location: Charlotte Police and Fire Training Academy, Central Piedmont Community College - CPCC / Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, 2024
  • Practical Criminal Law 2021 – Rowan Bar Presenting Attorney: Continuing Legal Education - Practical Criminal Law 2021 - Rowan Bar Bill Powers – Technology / Ethics Continuing Legal Education: TechEthics Powers 12162021 Bill Powers is host of Law Talk with Bill Powers Podcast., Speaker / Presenter, TechEthics - Technology / Ethics Continuing Legal Education, Law, Attorneys
  • Who is this conference designed for? Criminal defense lawyers interested in providing a better client experience and promoting a healthier culture at their offices. Currently, there are no conferences in North Carolina designed to help criminal law firm owners build the law practices of their dreams. This Summit is designed to fill that void by assisting criminal lawyers, no matter their age or number of years in practice, in elevating their law practices to new heights. Can I bring my team? Will you be offering a virtual option? Will I receive CLE hours for attending? Where is the detailed agenda of speakers and topics? Will meals be provided? How should I dress? Where? Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park 43 Town Square Blvd, Asheville, NC 28803 When? October 19 & 20, 2023 NC District Court Judge’s Conference Week How? Get Tickets Here Summit Speakers Bill Powers Keynote: The Mindset of a Freedom Fighter Bill Powers is well-known throughout North Carolina among courtroom lawyers. As the former President of the North Carolina Advocates for Justice, through his work teaching lawyers, Bill Powers is a “Lawyer’s Lawyer.” The criminal laws in North Carolina continue to evolve, and so does North Carolina attorney Bill Powers and his Charlotte NC law firm. Martindale-Hubbell lists Bill Powers as an AV “Preeminent Lawyer” 2010 – 2018* The National Trial Lawyers has included Bill Powers in “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” in North Carolina in 2018. Speaker Announcement Video, Keynote Speaker, Freedom Fighters - Summit 2023, Law, Attorneys
  • DUI Defense Lawyers Association - Fall Seminar Atlanta - Speaker/Presenter September 28 - 30, 2023 Atlanta, GA Omni Hotel at the Battery 2625 Cir 75 Pkwy SE, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 | (678) 567-7327 Effective Plea Negotiations - BILL POWERS & JOHN FANNEUY "Stealing Home" Saturday: [330 minutes – 5.50 Hrs (60 min), 6.60 (50 min)] 8:15 am – 8:45 am Light Breakfast 8:45 am – 9:00 am Announcements (Greg Willis, Course Director) 9:00 am – 9:45 am Tie Goes to the Runner: Client Mitigation Evidence (Jan Vogelsang, LISW-CP, BCD – GA) 9:45 am – 10:30 am Stealing Home: Effective Plea Negotiations (Bill Powers, JD – NC & John Fanney, JD – NC) 10:30 am – 11:30 am Unsportsmanlike Conduct: Exploring Bias & Professionalism in DUI Cases (Denise Childress, JD – MO) 11:30 am – 11:45 am BREAK (Heavy snacks!) 11:45 am – 12:15 pm Diamond Sponsor: Intoxalock: Equipment Check: NTSB Required Alcohol Monitoring Systems, Part 1 12:15 am – 12:45 pm Equipment Check: NTSB Required Alcohol Monitoring Systems, Part 2 (John Bateman, JD – SC) 12:45 pm – 1:30 pm Calling Fouls: Identifying Civil Rights Violations in DUI Cases & Filing Suit (Sarah Schielke, JD – CO) 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm Defense Hall of Fame: The Past, Present & Future of DUI (Bubba Head, JD – GA, Tim Huey, JD – OH, Mark Thiessen, JD – TX, Deandra Grant, JD – TX) 2:45 pm Final Wrap up (Course Directors), Co-Presenter/Lecturer, "Stealing Home: Effective Plea Negotiations, DUI Defense Lawyers, 2023
  • Successful District Court Practice in Eastern North Carolina - Continuing Legal Education Speaker, Cross Examination of Expert Witness - North Carolina Advocates for Justice New Bern, North Carolina April 29, 2011, Speaker, Cross Examination of Expert Witness, North Carolina Advocates For Justice, 2011
  • Momentum: DWI & DUI Advocacy for North Carolina & South Carolina Practitioners. This seminar, one of the Southeast’s preeminent and most distinguished, offers not only quality-content CLE, provides the attendee with downtime to mix and mingle and trade war stories with other DWI and DUI defenders from North Carolina and South Carolina., Program Chair, Speaker/Lecturer, Momentum: DWI & DUI Advocacy for North Carolina & South Carolina Practitioners, Law, Attorneys, Legal Professionals, 2018
  • Convention Highlights: Keynote Speaker - consumer advocate and environmental activist Erin Brockovich Saturday’s Luncheon Speaker – North Carolina’s own Roger Smith on Professionalism. Civil Masters in Advocacy Seminar – Hone your skills at Effective Motions Practice (morning) and An Introduction to Reptilian Trial Advocacy from the Founders with David Ball and Don Keenan (afternoon). Criminal Masters in Advocacy Seminar - Hit & Runs: Fast-paced Multi-subject Hot Button Topics for the Everyday Practitioner, Program Chair, Criminal Masters of Advocacy, North Carolina Advocates For Justice, 2011
  • Annual collection of DWI / DUI General Statutes, Administrative Code, Standardized Field Sobriety Tests, NHTSA DWI Detection protocols and breath testing / scientific devices., Author, NC DWI Quick Reference Guide, 2012
  • Summary Topics & Speaker Welcome Remarks by Program Chair Bill Powers, Powers Law Firm, Charlotte If I Throw You a Lifeline, Take It – PI Lawyer’s Perspective on DWI Charges Christopher R. Nichols, Nichols Law Firm, Raleigh Beyond the Echo Chamber: Understanding the Prosecutorial Philosophy Matt Silva, Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC, Jacksonville Plea Negotiations in North Carolina: There Are No Facts, Only Interpretations John Fanney, Fanney Law Firm, Raleigh Drug Impaired Driving: SFST Refresher & Tips Doug Scott, Drugs & Alcohol Risk Management, Inc., Atlantic Lunch with Keynote Speaker The DWI Exception to the Constitution – Lessons Learned from 35 Years in the Trenches David Teddy, Teddy Meekins & Talbert Law, PLLC, Shelby Forensic Toxicology & Your Case: What You Need to Know Paige Gardner, M.S., CCBI Forensic Toxicologist, Raleigh Case Law Update Les Robinson, The Robinson Law Firm, P.A., Greenville Ethics for the Criminal Law Practitioner Cameron Lee, Deputy Counsel, NC State Bar, Raleigh Jessica Arnold, Deputy Counsel, NC State Bar, Raleigh Adjourn Program Titles and Supporting Materials This program contains the following components: From Novice to Pro: Advancing Your DWI Defense Proficiency - Handout If I Throw You a Lifeline, Take It – PI Lawyer’s Perspective on DWI Charges - Video Beyond the Echo Chamber: Understanding the Prosecutorial Philosophy - Video Plea Negotiations in North Carolina: There Are No Facts, Only Interpretations - Video Drug Impaired Driving: SFST Refresher & Tips - Video The DWI Exception to the Constitution – Lessons Learned from 35 Years in the Trenches - Video Forensic Toxicology & Your Case: What You Need to Know - Video Case Law Update - Video Ethics for the Criminal Law Practitioner - Video, Program Chair, NCAJ - From Novice to Pro: Advancing Your DWI Defense Proficiency, North Carolina Advocates for Justice, Criminal Defense Lawyers, NC DWI Defense Lawyers, New Lawyers, Paralegals/Legal Assistants, 2024
  • Program Chair for NCAJ 2010 Summer Convention, Criminal Masters of Advocacy Program., Program Chair, Masters in Criminal Advocacy, North Carolina Advocates Of Justice, 2010
  • Presentation of Beginning, Intermediate & Advanced DWI Trial Techniques. Sponsor, Rowan County Bar. August, 2010, Program Speaker, DWI Update, Rowan County, 2010
  • "The Intoxilyzer 5000 and Alco sensor - Know the Technology - Help Your Client"
  • "The Interlock Device – Buck Rogers meets Learned Hand"
  • "Adventures in Fantasyland – A Traffic Law Primer"
  • DWI Law "The Interlock Device," Mecklenburg Co. Bar, 2001 – Present
  • DWI Law "Alco sensor - How on Earth Does It Work," Lorman CLE, 2002 - Present
  • DWI Law "Field Dexterity Testing," Lorman CLE, 2002 - Present
Industry Groups:
  • IACP International Association Collaborative Professionals
  • NBTA/NBLSC Criminal Law Specialist
  • North Carolina Advocates For Justice

Office location for Bill Powers

2412 Arty Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28208

Phone: 704-342-4357

Attorney resources for Bill Powers

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