Do I Have to Identify Myself to the Police? Many people watch police reality shows on television and notice that the police always ask for identification. In fact, it is usually the first thing they do when they approach someone. If you have been stopped by the police while driving,…
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?” In North Carolina, as in other states, there are two main categories of crimes that include misdemeanors and felonies. Although you might be charged with a misdemeanor, it does not mean…
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I ever plead guilty to a charge?” If you are facing criminal charges, you probably know that you have the option of pleading “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest.” Many people do not realize that there is a fourth option…
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I simply intend to plead guilty, why do I need a lawyer?” Courts must consider a variety of factors, including previous DWI convictions on the defendant’s record, to choose an appropriate sentence and penalties. If you have been charged with…
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I ever plead guilty to a charge?” Looting is almost synonymous with protests. This was evident during the recent protests over the killing of a black man in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As reported by Fox News, eight people were charged in…
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can I be arrested without evidence against me?” Several cities in North Carolina enacted a curfew in response to protests over the killing of George Floyd. In Charlotte, 30 people were arrested during the second night of protests, according to WBTV.…
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “My relationship is ending and they are threatening to call the police, how can I help myself?” In North Carolina, individuals who have HIV/AIDS can face criminal charges for having sex without the use of condoms or without informing their partner…
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…
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…
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…