Criminal Defense

U.S. Supreme Court Upholds Ghost Gun Law

Published on: April 9, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

U.S. Supreme Court Upholds Ghost Gun Law

Ghost guns have become a problem in the United States. Ghost guns may be utilized in crimes because they have no serial numbers, are not registered, and are virtually untraceable. Laws were enacted to prohibit ghost guns in an attempt to reduce or eliminate the number of these weapons on our streets. Ghost guns are responsible for a number of violent crimes across the country. The Supreme Court recently upheld the Biden-era law banning ghost guns.

https://youtu.be/hAHlAxIlgJo

What is Resisting Arrest in North Carolina?

Published on: March 26, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What is Resisting Arrest in North Carolina?

When you are arrested by law enforcement, you must obey their requests. If you try to oppose the arrest you could find yourself charged with an additional crime of resisting arrest. All crimes can be considered serious and sometimes you will be facing a separate charge from the one you were originally charged with. Your case may be more complex when you have more than one charge. An experienced criminal defense attorney will assist you in protecting your rights and defending the charges.

https://youtu.be/tvWLTTqTWN8

Deferred Prosecution in North Carolina

Published on: March 12, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Deferred Prosecution in North Carolina

Criminal charges are serious and if convicted of an offense you could face a severe sentence. Aside from the possible penalties, you will also have a criminal record, which could negatively impact your life for many years. You will want to vigorously defend the charges against you to seek the best possible outcome. In some cases, you may qualify for a deferred prosecution program. An experienced criminal defense attorney will help you seek deferred prosecution if it is possible for your case.

https://youtu.be/0ldRNyNrdJU

When Can the Police Seize My Vehicle in North Carolina?

Published on: March 5, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

When Can the Police Seize My Vehicle in North Carolina?

Traffic stops happen on a daily basis and most drivers will get stopped at least once or twice during their lifetimes. While most traffic stops happen without incident, there are times when complications arise. In some cases, the police actually seize a vehicle as the result of criminal activity associated with the driver or owner. Many people wonder under what circumstances can the police take a vehicle?

https://youtu.be/sa5OZfKkLUM?si=fec86zsxDB0ty5RO

Misdemeanor Assault Charges in North Carolina

Published on: February 19, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Misdemeanor Assault Charges in North Carolina

Assault charges are serious and can result in severe consequences if you are convicted. Even misdemeanor assault is a crime that you need to vigorously fight. If found guilty, you could face penalties that include fines, community service, probation, and time behind bars, among others. You will need to consider your future and how a potential conviction could impact your life and the lives of your loved ones. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney will help you resolve the charges and protect your rights.

https://youtu.be/noVeEjAmROs

What is the Difference Between a Manslaughter and Murder Charge?

Published on: January 22, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What is the Difference Between a Manslaughter and Murder Charge?

If you are facing manslaughter or murder charges you know that you could face serious consequences if you are found guilty. These are charges that you must take seriously because you could end up behind bars for a significant period of time. Generally, murder charges are more serious because they refer to an intentional killing while manslaughter is unintentional.

A strong defense is essential, regardless of the charges against you. An experienced criminal defense attorney will vigorously protect your rights and defend the charges. It is helpful to understand the difference between manslaughter and murder charges in North Carolina.

Defending Against Juvenile Criminal Charges: What Parents Need to Know

Published on: January 15, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Defending Against Juvenile Criminal Charges: What Parents Need to Know

One of the most terrifying things to face as a parent is a phone call from the police stating that your child is in trouble. Parents want to do everything possible to help their children through this difficult experience and keep them from having severe penalties that could negatively impact the rest of their lives. When your child has been detained or is charged with a crime, parents need to know the options available and how to best handle the situation. Often, the best way to proceed is with guidance from a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney.

Juvenile Crimes

2025 Changes to DUI Hardship License Eligibility

Published on: January 8, 2025 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

2025 Changes to DUI Hardship License Eligibility

If you have been convicted of DUI, you know that it can have a profound negative impact on your life. One of the biggest problem areas is the loss of your driver’s license for a period of time. Without a license you will have difficulty getting to and from work or school, which will seriously affect your ability to make a living and to have financial stability. Changes to the laws effective in 2025 are designed to make it easier to obtain a hardship driver’s license after a DUI.

What is a Hardship License?

Signs of Intoxicated Drivers: Tips for Road Safety During the Holidays

Published on: December 25, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Signs of Intoxicated Drivers: Tips for Road Safety During the Holidays

Many of us drive to and from holiday parties during the holiday season and are busy running errands. Unfortunately, during the holiday season, drunk driving can put other drivers at risk of being injured in a car accident. Drivers may drink too much alcohol at a party or work event and decide to drive anyway, putting everyone else on the road in danger. Understanding the signs of intoxicated drivers can help you protect yourself on North Carolina roads this holiday season.

Erratic Lane Changes

Loitering Charges in North Carolina

Published on: December 11, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Loitering Charges in North Carolina

When someone stays in a public space for too long without any reason, they may be accused of loitering. Generally, when someone is loitering, the police will ask them to leave. When a person remains in an area that does not allow loitering, they could be charged with a crime. It is most often charged in areas of high crime rates, where gang activity happens, or places where drug transactions are known to occur. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney will help you protect your rights and resolve the matter.

What is Loitering?