What Happens to My Property if I Go to Jail? One of the serious punishments that may happen to you if you are convicted of a crime is spending time in jail. When you are incarcerated, you will no longer have the freedoms you previously enjoyed, and you no longer…
Can I Face Criminal Charges After a Traffic Accident? Accidents happen very regularly, and most people get into a fender-bender situation at some point in their lives. While, typically, vehicle accidents are civil matters that parties work out between their insurance companies, there are some circumstances that may result in…
Defending Manslaughter Charges Manslaughter is the killing of another person without forethought or malice. It differs from the charge of murder in that murder is the killing of another person with intent. There are several types of manslaughter charges that might apply. Although manslaughter is generally a felony, the penalties…
I Was Charged With a Crime: Should I Plead Not Guilty? Criminal charges are almost always serious. While some offenses are misdemeanors, others are felonies. Misdemeanors often carry fewer penalties, while felonies have stronger punishments, depending on the crime. If you are charged with a crime, one of the first…
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I simply intend to plead guilty, why do I need a lawyer?” Manslaughter is a serious criminal charge in North Carolina. Manslaughter is a crime that may be charged when someone is responsible for the death of another. There are…
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I ever plead guilty to a charge?” When you have been charged with a crime you may feel scared and unsure of what to expect. Your charges could result in severe punishments if you are convicted. You may wonder whether…
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…
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” Those who follow issues involving criminal law may know that the United States is an outlier among other countries in the world when it comes to punishment of juvenile…
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question:”What is an expungement?” Most people do not spend time worrying about things like the discovery process. It is legalistic and confusing to those not familiar with the criminal justice system. Though it can be complicated, it is incredibly important and worth…
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I ever plead guilty to a charge?” Everyone knows that you have the right to plead “not guilty” to criminal charges filed against you. Meanwhile, “guilty” pleas are usually used when a person is taking a plea bargain in exchange…