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Last Modified on Sep 02, 2025
North Carolina antitrust laws can be complex to understand fully because they encompass numerous intricate details. Legislation that explains such laws and regulations is lengthy and replete with legal jargon, which can be intimidating to comprehend. If you are facing charges related to antitrust laws in North Carolina, it is important to be aware of what you are up against.
When an antitrust issue overlaps with securities or market conduct, having a clear picture of SEC investigations in North Carolina can help you understand the parallel regulatory track that may unfold.
The W. James Payne Law Firm has decades of experience in defending white-collar crime. Whether you are an individual or a corporation seeking legal help, we can build a strong defense case on your behalf. In addition to defending individuals accused of white-collar crime, we also work closely with those facing significant criminal charges. Regardless of the severity of your circumstances, we can support you in fighting your legal battle.
Antitrust Laws Affecting North Carolina Residents
Antitrust laws primarily seek to restrict and prohibit the formation of monopolies. The goal in doing so is to protect consumers from unfair prices and to encourage competition between businesses. In North Carolina, state statutes criminalize any action that contributes to the formation of a monopoly, such as price-fixing, specific business arrangements, bid-rigging, conspiracy to monopolize, and others.
In addition to forming monopolies, unlawful actions under North Carolina antitrust laws also include any deceptive business actions. Examples are any instance of fraudulent action, misrepresentation of a business, and predatory pricing.
North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 75
Chapter 75 of the North Carolina General Statutes specifically addresses unlawful actions related to trade. Some examples of the mentioned acts include the following:
- Unsolicited checks sent with the intention of acquiring a loan
- Lenders attempting to require borrowers to work with a specific insurer
- Regulations regarding the gifting of unsolicited merchandise
- Unfair or deceptive trade names
- Regulations regarding fair and excessive pricing
- Regulations relating to contracts and other formal agreements
Criminal Cases Related to Antitrust Laws
In some cases, criminal charges relating to antitrust laws are classified as fraud. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation reported 2,542 arrests of fraud within the state in 2023. In other cases, criminal charges related to antitrust laws may be categorized as white-collar crimes, signifying the severity of the act’s nature.
For white-collar criminal cases classified at the state level, court proceedings take place in a state court. For residents of North Carolina, with a population of around 11 million, antitrust cases are primarily handled by the North Carolina Business Court, a state court designed for complex business disputes, including corporate and commercial law. This is usually reserved for cases involving complex issues that include corporate and commercial law. New cases filed in Business Court in North Carolina were up 37% in 2024.
Because timing can be critical, understanding the federal statute of limitations for criminal cases is essential, as filing windows often shape early defense strategy.
Why Choose Us?
W. James Payne has been serving individuals facing criminal charges since 1984. As a native of North Carolina, he deeply understands North Carolina fraud laws. He has effectively fought white collar criminal cases and helped clients achieve freedom and lessen penalties.
In addition to serving as a criminal defense attorney, he also writes and lectures on criminal law and white collar criminal defense. Such a combination of practical experience and research makes W. James Payne a strong defense attorney. His understanding of the law and knowledge of how to practically apply it have guided countless clients to optimal outcomes.
FAQs
What Is the Antitrust Act In North Carolina?
The Antitrust Act in North Carolina refers to Chapter 75 of the state General Statutes. This specific statute essentially prohibits the formation of monopolies. The goal of the law is to ensure that trade is not restricted in any way, while also protecting consumers. This law has both state and federal ramifications. By criminalizing the formation of monopolies, free trade is encouraged through financial competition between businesses.
How Are Consumers Legally Protected In North Carolina?
There are multiple legal ways in which North Carolina consumers are protected. The North Carolina Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act (UDTPA) criminalizes business actions that are classified as unfair or deceptive in such a way that harms commerce. Individuals who have been misled may file for compensation and damages according to this act. The entirety of Chapter 75 of the North Carolina General Statutes governs appropriate and inappropriate trade.
What Is a Monopoly?
Monopoly power, regarding antitrust laws, refers to any action taken that tries to restrain or diminish competition in the market. While it can be challenging to legally recognize a monopoly, numerous federal and North Carolina state laws are in place that criminalize such actions. In some cases, a monopoly may begin to naturally form. Intentionally creating a monopoly can result in serious legal consequences.
What Is the Federal Trade Commission?
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is a United States federal agency that oversees competition and consumer protection within the country. While they operate at a federal level, each state also maintains its own laws regarding trade regulations. Their goal is to enforce federal antitrust laws and support state laws in the process. They also have the authority to investigate claims involving antitrust laws.
Hire a Antitrust Lawyer: W. James Payne Law Firm
If you have been charged with fraud, it is essential to hire a skilled Antitrust lawyer. A lawyer who has handled fraud cases similar to yours in the past knows what type of evidence to look for and how to craft a defense strategy that works diligently in your favor. While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer, doing so can have an enormous impact on the outcome of your case.
At the W. James Payne Law Firm, we have helped countless clients fight for justice and have their charges dropped or their penalties lessened. We believe each client has the right to a fair trial and deserves a strong defense. Contact us today to learn more about who we are and how we can help you. Regardless of the severity of your case, we are prepared and equipped to support you during this challenging time.
