Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Why is it important to hire a DWI lawyer quickly after being charged with a DWI?” Yes, it is possible that law enforcement could seize your motor vehicle during a Driving While Impaired (DWI) stop in North Carolina if your arrest…
Articles Posted in Attorney
Can I be Charged With DWI if I Was Not Actually Driving My Vehicle?
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Is there more than one way for police to charge a person with DWI?” Many North Carolinians mistakenly believe that they cannot be charged with driving while impaired, also known as DWI, if they are not actually driving a vehicle. But…
What is the Solicitation of a Child by Computer Charge in the Age of Social Media?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “As a parent, what should I be aware of when speaking to police about charges my child faces?” Facing a charge of “solicitation of a child by computer” can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. You may not only lose your…
Defenses to Drug Possession Charges in North Carolina
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can the police search my car without a warrant?” Drug possession is a serious criminal charge that comes with dire consequences. If convicted of drug possession in North Carolina, you could face hefty fines, imprisonment, and other life-altering penalties. For this…
Is Self-Defense Considered Assault in North Carolina?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I have an outstanding warrant, what should I do?” Many North Carolinians mistakenly believe that they have a right to self-defense any time they are attacked or provoked by another individual. While self-defense can be justifiable under certain circumstances, “defending”…
I Was Charged With a Federal Crime: What Should I Do?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Do I need to hire an attorney if I have been falsely accused?” Being charged with a federal crime is a very stressful and frightening experience. Many people who are facing federal charges do not know what happens after they are…
What Happens if You Get Pulled Over Without a License in North Carolina?
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can I represent myself on a traffic ticket?” Driving without a license is a serious offense in North Carolina. That is why it is vital to contact a criminal defense lawyer if you get pulled over without a license to avoid…
What Does Mandatory Minimum Sentencing Mean in North Carolina?
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I simply intend to plead guilty, why do I need a lawyer?” North Carolina law does not have mandatory minimum sentences for most criminal offenses. In most criminal cases, prosecutors can offer a plea bargain while judges have discretion over…
What are Criminal Penalties for Violating North Carolina’s COVID-19 Curfew?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “The person that called the police doesn’t want to press charges, can I still be prosecuted?” North Carolina’s statewide curfew took effect on December 11, 2020, as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to rise and break new records. Under the state’s…
Long-Awaited Criminal Justice Reforms Take Effect in North Carolina
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” New North Carolina laws as part of the state’s criminal justice reform went into effect on December 1, 2020. As a result, more North Carolinians are eligible to apply…