Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Blog

Street Racing Charges in Charlotte

Published on: May 28, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Street Racing Charges in Charlotte

Street racing is becoming a more popular pastime among younger generations. Unfortunately, street racing is extremely dangerous and is illegal in Charlotte and cities across the country. Social media has made it possible for hundreds or more people to gather at certain times and places to participate in and watch street racing and street takeovers. While many think it is fun, it can be treacherous both for drivers and pedestrians. You could face serious charges if you are caught street racing in North Carolina.

https://youtu.be/mcoAB8pDGRY

Hidden Consequences of a Criminal Conviction

Published on: May 21, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Hidden Consequences of a Criminal Conviction

When you have been charged with a crime, you could be facing a number of serious penalties. If convicted, you could be sentenced to a variety of penalties depending on the sentencing guidelines for that particular crime, as well as other factors, such as your criminal history, and more. Depending on whether a crime is classified as a misdemeanor or felony, you may receive a sentence that includes fines, jail time, probation, community service, rehabilitative treatment, or educational courses, as well as other penalties.

Although you are typically most concerned with the sentencing you may receive if found guilty, there are other consequences that go beyond the court. In addition to the statutory penalties that will be imposed if convicted of a crime, there are other consequences that you may need to deal with as a result of the conviction.

Can I Get a DUI if I am Asleep in My Car?

Published on: May 14, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Can I Get a DUI if I am Asleep in My Car?

Drinking and driving do not mix, and if you are driving after having had a few drinks, you could get pulled over for DUI. Instead of risking a DUI, some people wonder whether it is best to just take a short nap until they are safe to drive home. Rather than getting into your car, you may want to take a rideshare or call a friend. If you decide to sleep in your car, could you get a DUI?

https://youtu.be/mTsE0-ioxJQ

Three Strikes Law in North Carolina

Published on: May 7, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Three Strikes Law in North Carolina

The law allows the courts some leniency, particularly when dealing with first offenders. First offenders may receive lower sentences or even qualify for a diversion program. Typically, those who committed a crime are expected to learn from their mistake by not getting involved in criminal activity in the future. The law also provides for harsher penalties for repeat offenders. North Carolina has a habitual felon statute in place that is intended to deter people from re-offending.

https://youtu.be/Q25p9ksjtq8

What is Due Process?

Published on: April 30, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What is Due Process?

Federal and state laws require everyone to be treated equally and fairly. There has been much talk about due process, and many people are wondering exactly what it is. Due process is a term that is common language among attorneys and judges and in courtrooms across the country. People who live in the United States have the right to a fair legal process.

https://youtu.be/6QfhYrFAQuE

Is Marijuana Legal in North Carolina?

Published on: April 23, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Is Marijuana Legal in North Carolina?

Cannabis is the most commonly used illegal drug in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Marijuana is a controlled substance and is prohibited by federal law. Some states allow the use of small amounts of cannabis for recreational purposes. However, North Carolina is not one of them. In North Carolina, marijuana is illegal, including the use of cannabis for medical treatment. You could face serious criminal charges if you are found to be in possession of marijuana. An experienced criminal defense attorney will help protect your rights and fight the charges.

https://youtu.be/8CSJuRD8pio

Shoplifting Charges in North Carolina

Published on: April 16, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Shoplifting Charges in North Carolina

Shoplifting is one of the most common crimes in the country. Theft of goods happens in all types of stores and in every retail situation. If you have been charged with shoplifting, it is something to take seriously. A conviction could mean a sentence that may include fines, community service, and jail time, among others. Most importantly, a conviction will remain on your criminal record, making it more difficult to get employment, rent an apartment, or even get into college.

https://youtu.be/uaXgSF4QDQk

U.S. Supreme Court Upholds Ghost Gun Law

Published on: April 9, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

U.S. Supreme Court Upholds Ghost Gun Law

Ghost guns have become a problem in the United States. Ghost guns may be utilized in crimes because they have no serial numbers, are not registered, and are virtually untraceable. Laws were enacted to prohibit ghost guns in an attempt to reduce or eliminate the number of these weapons on our streets. Ghost guns are responsible for a number of violent crimes across the country. The Supreme Court recently upheld the Biden-era law banning ghost guns.

https://youtu.be/hAHlAxIlgJo

What are Speed Limiting Devices?

Published on: April 2, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What are Speed Limiting Devices?

Speeding is one of the leading causes of vehicle accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about one-third of all traffic fatalities are related to speeding. Speeding is not only considered a traffic violation, but in some cases, it can also be a criminal act. Reckless driving, for example, is a Class 2 misdemeanor in North Carolina. Some states are contemplating whether to require speed-limiting devices as a penalty for certain types of speeding violations. What are these devices, and how will they be used?

https://youtu.be/9b45-sclhew

What is Resisting Arrest in North Carolina?

Published on: March 26, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What is Resisting Arrest in North Carolina?

When you are arrested by law enforcement, you must obey their requests. If you try to oppose the arrest you could find yourself charged with an additional crime of resisting arrest. All crimes can be considered serious and sometimes you will be facing a separate charge from the one you were originally charged with. Your case may be more complex when you have more than one charge. An experienced criminal defense attorney will assist you in protecting your rights and defending the charges.

https://youtu.be/tvWLTTqTWN8