Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Blog

Types of Pleas – Which One is Best for My Criminal Case?

Published on: March 18, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Types of Pleas – Which One is Best for My Criminal Case?

As a defendant in a criminal case, you are facing one or more charges. The legal process will proceed based on the type of charges as well as your plea to them. Generally, the judge will ask for the defendant’s plea at the time of the first hearing or arraignment. There are three main types of pleas in North Carolina.

Not Guilty: A plea of not guilty is a complete denial of the charges. A not guilty plea will result in a trial to resolve the matter. A trial may be either a bench trial, in front of a judge, or a jury trial.

Navigating DWI Charges: The Importance of Legal Representation

Published on: March 17, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Navigating DWI Charges: The Importance of Legal Representation

Being arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) can be an incredibly stressful and daunting experience. The repercussions of a DWI charge can be severe, potentially resulting in hefty fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Additionally, a DWI conviction can have long-term effects on your personal, professional, and financial life. With so much at stake, it is critical to understand the complexities of DWI laws and the vital importance of having experienced legal representation during this challenging time.

Understanding North Carolina’s DWI Laws

Moving Violation Strategies

Published on: March 11, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Moving Violation Strategies

Almost everyone has received a moving violation at some time or another. Generally, tickets are issued for minor violations, although in some cases, the violations are serious. The rules of the road are in place to protect drivers and provide safety on our roads. When a driver violates a traffic law, they could receive a ticket. If you have too many tickets or a ticket for a serious offense, it could impact your license and may even result in higher vehicle insurance costs.

Don’t Pay the Ticket

Federal DUI Charges

Published on: March 4, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Federal DUI Charges

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense. Usually, DUI charges are made by local or state police under state DWI laws. Many people are unaware that there are separate DUI charges depending on exactly where you were when the incident occurred. If you are on federal property, you could be charged with a federal DUI. There are some differences between a state and federal DUI prosecution. An experienced attorney will guide you through the process.

What is a Federal DUI?

What Traffic Infractions Result In Criminal Charges?

Published on: February 25, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What Traffic Infractions Result In Criminal Charges?

Driving requires you to adhere to the rules of the road. Laws are in place to ensure the safety of all vehicles. Most traffic infractions are minor in nature, and if you are in violation, you could receive a ticket. If you get too many tickets, you could face some consequences, such as the suspension of your driving privileges. However, some violations are considered so egregious that there are also potential criminal charges if you disobey them.

Hit and Run

Defending Indecent Exposure Charges

Published on: February 18, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Defending Indecent Exposure Charges

The public space is protected by various laws. When you are in public, you must obey the laws or face the possibility of arrest. Although a charge of indecent exposure isn’t extremely serious, it can still wreak havoc on your life now and in the future. If you have been charged with indecent exposure or lewd behavior, you will want to seek legal guidance as soon as possible. You will need to protect yourself and defend the charges.

What is Indecent Exposure?

The Science Behind DUI Breath Tests

Published on: February 11, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

The Science Behind DUI Breath Tests

DWI is a serious offense and one that comes with severe punishments if convicted. When you face DWI charges, you will want to vigorously defend yourself. One of the most important pieces of evidence used to convict in DWI cases is your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). It is helpful to understand the science behind breath tests that are used as evidence so you can defend the charges and avoid conviction. There are possible problems with the accuracy of the results, which you can utilize as part of your defense against the charges.

How Does a Breathalyzer Work?

Can You Carry a Firearm in North Carolina?

Published on: February 4, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Can You Carry a Firearm in North Carolina?

The 2nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution gives all Americans the right to bear arms. People in North Carolina and across the country have the inherent right to own a firearm in order to defend themselves. When you reside in North Carolina, you must comply with state and federal firearms laws. If you disregard firearms laws, you could face criminal charges. It is helpful to understand how to remain compliant with the current gun laws of our state.

What are the Requirements to Own a Gun in North Carolina?

Vehicle Registration Violations in North Carolina

Published on: January 28, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Vehicle Registration Violations in North Carolina

North Carolina, like other states, requires all vehicle owners to properly register their vehicles. Every vehicle that travels on public roadways must have a current registration. In order to register a vehicle you must meet specific criteria. Vehicle registration is a sticker tag that is affixed to the rear license plate. The failure to display a current vehicle registration sticker could result in penalties. Generally, these violations are minor but in some circumstances, they could actually turn into a misdemeanor criminal violation.

Vehicle Registration Guidelines

13-Year-Old South Carolina Boy May Be Prosecuted as an Adult for Murder

Published on: January 22, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

13-Year-Old South Carolina Boy May Be Prosecuted as an Adult for Murder

A 13-year-old boy in South Carolina is facing charges for murder and may be prosecuted as an adult. He is accused of fatally stabbing another teenager to death. Local authorities and legal experts are weighing the implications of charging him as an adult, considering the severity of the crime and his young age. The incident occurred while the suspect and victim were riding in a vehicle driven by the suspect’s sister. The suspect allegedly stabbed the victim, who was sitting in the front seat, from the backseat. A fight occurred after the stabbing, and the victim died at the hospital.

This case has raised questions about how the justice system handles young offenders, especially in serious felony cases. The community is grappling with the tragedy, reflecting on the challenges of addressing youth crime and the impact on families and society. The defendant’s public defense attorney has claimed that the suspect may have been trying to protect himself when the stabbing happened.