Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I have an outstanding warrant, what should I do?” A new report by the FBI showed a slight decrease in hate crimes in Charlotte metro last year compared with 2017. The Federal Bureau of Investigation tracks the number of hate…
Articles Posted in Lake Norman
Murder Suspects in Charlotte Will No Longer Get Ankle Bracelets, CMPD Says
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Am I allowed to videotape an interaction with police? Can they make me stop filming?” Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police (CMPD) has announced drastic changes to its electronic monitoring program in the city amid concerns that people released from jail before trial pose a…
What are Defenses to Motor Vehicle Theft (Auto Larceny) Charges in North Carolina?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I ever plead guilty to a charge?” Stealing a motor vehicle is a serious crime in North Carolina. In addition to auto theft charges, a person can be found guilty of a crime when he or she uses, damages, or…
Why You Need a DUI Criminal Defense Attorney During the Holidays
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Are breath test results always accurate?” If you were pulled over during a DUI stop anywhere between Thanksgiving and the end of New Year’s weekend, and police officers suspect that you are intoxicated, it can be quite difficult to prove them…
What Happens if You Steal From a Retail Store in Charlotte, North Carolina?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I ever plead guilty to a charge?” North Carolina law recognizes theft as taking someone else’s property without their permission to permanently deprive the owner of the item. Theft, burglary, and shoplifting are serious crimes. Being charged with one of…
Federal Charges for Interfering with or Assaulting a Flight Crewmember
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” Air travel is supposed to be an enjoyable and convenient experience, but that is not the case for everyone. Assaulting, hitting, threatening, or interfering with crewmembers aboard an airplane…
North Carolina Lawmakers Overhaul the State’s Outdated Consent Law
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can I be arrested without evidence against me?” Lawmakers in North Carolina’s State Senate and House of Representatives – both controlled by Republicans – have unanimously approved a bill to overhaul the state’s outdated sexual assault laws. Gov. Roy Cooper (D)…
Criminal Penalties for Filing a False Police Report in North Carolina
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I simply intend to plead guilty, why do I need a lawyer?” It may seem that filing a false police report does no harm, but doing so can result in criminal charges in North Carolina. Although the reasons why people…
Armed Robbery Charges in Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can I be arrested without evidence against me?” An arrest for robbery entails serious felony charges in North Carolina. Those arrested for robbery risk losing their freedom and getting a criminal record with permanent negative consequences for their career, reputation, and…
Why Doctors Accused of Sex Crimes Need Legal Help
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” A new report shows that a doctor convicted of sex crimes in Missouri did his medical training in Charlotte. The doctor was convicted of sexually abusing patients who came…