Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I ever plead guilty to a charge?” Being charged with a crime can be overwhelming. Suddenly, you are thrust into the court system and worried that you will be found guilty and face serious penalties for an action you may…
Articles Posted in Criminal Charges
Can Criminal Charges be Dropped?
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?” The prospect of facing criminal charges can lead to anxiety and uncertainty, regardless if the crime is a felony or a misdemeanor. You might think…
Supreme Court Broadens Meaning of “Maintaining a Dwelling”
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can the police search my car without a warrant?” The state of North Carolina is strict on drug crimes. In an effort to eliminate the use of drugs throughout the state, courts and lawmakers have been eager to crack down on…
Things to Consider When Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Do I need to hire an attorney if I have been falsely accused?” If you are considering hiring a criminal defense attorney, you are likely in a stressful and trying time in your life. Criminal charges can be confusing and likely…
The Statute of Limitations for North Carolina Criminal Charges
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I simply intend to plead guilty, why do I need a lawyer?” If you watch a television drama that follows the story of a crime and its prosecution, it seems like a quick process. A crime is committed, suspects are…
Justification as a Defense for Felons Using a Firearm
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” Guns and firearms are a big issue in the United States. Regardless of which side of the debate you agree with, the right to bear arms is granted by…
Boating While Impaired can Have Dire Consequences
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What am I obligated to do if I’ve been pulled for Drinking and Driving?” The Charlotte region is blessed with a number of boat worthy lakes including Lake Norman, Lake Wylie, Mountain Island lake and many others. With the warm weather…
Legislators In Alabama Take Aim At Civil Asset Forfeiture Law
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I talk to the police?” We have discussed civil asset forfeiture many times before, usually noting the ways in which the practice is used to unfairly seize assets from often-innocent individuals, enriching law enforcement agencies at the expense of the…
Florida Legislature Moves Forward With Plan To Allow Retroactive Criminal Law Changes
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” When we think of the law we often imagine rules that are set in stone. The law is meant to remain constant, allowing certainty over time and consistent treatment,…
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…