[NC] [NC] My friend was charged with drug trafficking, but his court date keeps getting delayed. What are his chances of winning this case?

Hello! My name is Michael, and I’m an attorney ready to help. Your responses matter to me, so I only need a few minutes to review and respond to each of your posts.

Can you tell me what specific information you’re looking for about the case? For example, are you wondering about possible penalties, defense options, the court process, or something else?

I hear you. Do you know if your friend is out on bond right now or still in custody? That can help explain some of the delays and what might happen next.

Understood. What’s your legal question for me?

Court Delay

It’s common for court dates to be continued multiple times. Reasons can include attorney scheduling conflicts, discovery (evidence review), plea negotiations, or simple court backlog.

Since your friend is out on bond, the court doesn’t see him as a flight risk or immediate danger, which can make the case move slower.

Bond

A $25,000 bond is indeed on the lower end for trafficking meth, but it’s not unusual if your friend has a limited or clean criminal record.

Evidence

If the only evidence is that the drugs were found in your friend’s bedroom, and there are no texts, surveillance, or undercover buys, the prosecution’s case might be weak—but not necessarily doomed.

North Carolina law allows for constructive possession, which means someone can be charged if drugs are found in an area they control, even if they weren’t physically holding them. (State v. Loftis, 185 N.C. App. 190 (2007))

The defense could argue that others had access to the room or that he didn’t have exclusive control. The lack of corroborating evidence (texts, witnesses, or drug paraphernalia) can help the defense, but it doesn’t automatically guarantee a win.

Timeline

Drug trafficking cases in NC often take a year or longer, especially if there are continuances. Since he was indicted in January, and it’s already been delayed several times, it could easily take several more months to resolve—either through a plea, trial, or dismissal.

What Might Happen

The defense attorney may push for dismissal or a favorable plea deal if the prosecution’s evidence is weak.

The case could still go to trial if no deal is reached.

Continuances could continue as both sides prepare.

I hear you. If he tries to blame you, it could create problems, but since you didn’t live with him, didn’t have access to his room, and there’s no communication linking you to drugs, that works strongly in your favor.

You should still be cautious—gather any proof showing you had no involvement or contact. If law enforcement contacts you, stay calm and clearly state those facts.

Even though it’s been a year and a half, it’s possible you could still get pulled in if new evidence surfaced or he keeps accusing you.

However, with no evidence connecting you and no access to his property, you’re likely in the clear. Just stay aware and avoid any contact about the case.