We have previously discussed a new expungement law that will go into effect in North Carolina in just a few weeks. The measure, scheduled to be implemented on December 1, 2017, is aimed at improving the currently cumbersome expungement process. The law is specifically designed to make the process faster…
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Blog
What Crimes Are Eligible Under New North Carolina Expungement Law?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question:”What is an expungement?” We have previously discussed a new law that takes effect in North Carolina on December 1, 2017. The measure deals with expungements and aims to streamline the process, making everything easier and faster for those looking to clean…
Should Addiction Be Punished As A Crime?
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What should I do if I have been pulled over and I have been drinking ?” Everyone who reads or watches the news knows about the devastating impact drug addiction has had on the country. Families in every county of every…
Is failing to cremate a crime?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?” It can be hard to imagine anything worse than having a loved one pass away. The death of a child, a parent or a spouse can be crippling. It is not…
Supreme Court Poised To Decide Several Important Criminal Cases
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question:”What is an expungement?” The U.S. Supreme Court is poised to have what many legal experts believe will be a blockbuster year, issuing a number of significant decisions. The docket appears packed with controversial and consequential cases. Last year the court was…
Criminal Expungement on Your Christmas Wish List? North Carolinians May Be in Luck
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question:”What is an expungement?” Starting December 1, 2017, a new North Carolina law will make the path to the expungement of non-violent criminal convictions significantly shorter and easier for individuals hoping for a clean slate. The wait time for qualifying felony and…
Does Flipping A Bird Count As Free Speech?
Board Certified Family Law Specialist Matt Arnold answers the question: “How is social media evidence used in divorce proceedings?” When we think of arguments involving the First Amendment and free speech, we often conjure up images of brave people taking stands on important topics. There are a number of…
Nebraska Court Says Recent Ruling Regarding Blood Draws Is Not Retroactive
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I simply intend to plead guilty, why do I need a lawyer?” It’s been a few years now since the U.S. Supreme Court issued a landmark DUI decision in Birchfield v. North Dakota. That case represented a major development in…
Major Push Underway To Reform Bail System
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I have an outstanding warrant, what should I do?” To the surprise of many who once thought it impossible, there appears to be growing pressure across the country to make changes to the current bail system in place in most…
Minnesota Judge Appears To Defy Federal Ruling
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” Criminal cases are seldom very exciting. Though TV and movies would have you believe differently, the reality is that court rules and procedures restrict what participants are able to…