Understanding the Castle Doctrine (Stand Your Ground) You are sitting on your back patio when you suddenly see someone you do not know making their way onto your property. The stranger is getting closer and is heading towards your side door with the possible intent of breaking inside. Do you…
Articles Posted in deadly force
Self Defense Laws in North Carolina: A Resource for Residents
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” There is an old saying that goes, “A person’s home is their castle.” This phrase is used to explain the deeply intrinsic motivation we have to protect our property…
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”…
North Carolina Appeals Court Rules on the Use of Defensive Force in the Home
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” In 2011, the North Carolina General Assembly updated the law governing the use of defensive force in the home. Since then, there has been a need for clarification of…
Iowa’s “Stand Your Ground” Law Put To The Test In Recent Case
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can I be arrested without evidence against me?” Stand Your Ground laws have been around for more than a decade now, with Florida serving as one of the first states to pass such legislation back in 2005. Though not a novel…