Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I ever plead guilty to a charge?” After North Carolina’s “stay-at-home” order went into effect on March 30, 2020, to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), many residents began to wonder, “Can I be fined or arrested for violating…
Articles Posted in Charlotte
Does the Coronavirus Pandemic Increase or Decrease Crime Rates in Charlotte, North Carolina?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I talk to the police?” As North Carolina residents were ordered to stay home from March 30 due to the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), some of you might wonder, “Does it mean that people will commit more crimes?” or,…
Building a Defense When Facing Felony Drug Charges in North Carolina
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can the police search my car without a warrant?” In North Carolina, felony drug charges are one of the most serious crimes an individual can face. A conviction could lead to hefty fines and decades in prison, not to mention that…
What are Mitigating Circumstances for Crimes in North Carolina?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “When can I post on Social media about my ongoing case?” If you are facing criminal charges in North Carolina, your potential sentence for the offense could be reduced if “mitigating circumstances” are found. In North Carolina, felony sentences depend on…
Can North Carolina Police Use Facial Recognition to Make Arrests?
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can the police search my car without a warrant?” It may seem that facial recognition is everywhere in the 21st century. The technology that can identify a person by comparing an image of his or her face to a database of…
Defenses to a Failed Breathalyzer Test in North Carolina
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Are breath test results always accurate?” If you were pulled over for driving while impaired (DWI) in Charlotte or other parts of North Carolina, a police officer might order a breathalyzer test to determine your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). If you…
Charlotte Woman Pleads Guilty for Filing False Tax Returns
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I ever plead guilty to a charge?” A Charlotte woman pleaded guilty in federal court for filing false tax returns. Andrivia Wells, a Charlotte-based tax preparer, entered a guilty plea for three out of 35 counts. The woman pleaded guilty…
This is the Deadliest Street in Charlotte, NC, in Terms of Crime
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” A new report by Charlotte Observer explores the most murderous stretch of road in the city. The street, which is about 3,350 feet long, is one of Charlotte’s “hot…
Should You Turn Yourself in When There is a Warrant for Your Arrest in North Carolina?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I have an outstanding warrant, what should I do?” It is scary to think about turning yourself in to the North Carolina police, let alone actually to go to the police station and do it. Many of those who consider…
How an Apology can be Perceived as Confession and Lead to Criminal Charges
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I talk to the police?” They say it is better to apologize late than never. However, the same principle does not apply when you are being accused of a crime, especially if you did not commit one. Apologies are often…