Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Blog

Self Defense Laws in North Carolina: A Resource for Residents

Published on: July 21, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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 and its inhabitants. When intruders try to invade our space and threaten us with personal injury or worse, we are sometimes forced to respond to the threat. However, what does the law in North Carolina say about our choice of defense?

What Should I Do About My Social Media During a Trial?

Published on: July 14, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I clean up my social media profile after being charged?”

Social media has become an almost universal aspect of society, but the same qualities that make it popular – the ease of posting and the more casual nature of conversations – can also make social media content a criminal defense risk. For example, your friends might know you are not serious if you joke about hurting someone, but there is no way for a judge or the authorities to know that if they are reviewing your social media feeds.

How Do Law Enforcement Officers Decide to Bring a Drug Distribution Charge?

Published on: July 7, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can I be arrested without evidence against me?”

Facing a drug distribution charge is a very serious matter. But how do law enforcement officers and prosecutors decide whether to charge you with possession of a controlled substance, a lesser charge, or distribution or trafficking of a controlled substance, the more serious charge?

Help! Police Arrested My Teenager!

Published on: June 30, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What should parents tell their children to do when interacting with police officers?”

Your teenager has been arrested by the Charlotte Police Department, and you have received a disturbing call on the phone. It is going to be tough, but try not to panic. Your child needs you to stay focused and in charge. Children make mistakes. It is our job as adults to make sure those mistakes do not become a criminal record that follows good kids for the rest of their lives. The following are some things to consider if you ever find yourself in this situation. And of course, if your son or daughter has been arrested, the best thing you can do is reach out to an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Charlotte right away.

What is Sexual Consent, and Why Does it Matter?

Published on: June 23, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I have an outstanding warrant, what should I do?”

Hit a Pedestrian When Driving? Why You Need to Stay on the Scene

Published on: June 16, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?”

Driving a car is a fairly enjoyable activity that most of us do to save time and avoid using crowded public transportation. However, nobody has ever promised that being behind the wheel was going to be an easy or safe thing. Like everything in life, it comes with risks.

Accused of Sex Crimes Involving a Minor? A Closer Look at NC’s Romeo and Juliet Laws

Published on: June 9, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I am charged by campus police could I still face jail time or probation?”

What are Your Rights After Getting Stopped by the Police?

Published on: June 2, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Am I allowed to videotape an interaction with police? Can they make me stop filming?”

One of the many duties of the police is to make routine stops. This, among other reasons, is why an officer can sometimes pull you over. Getting stopped by the police should not be an alarming experience, but sometimes it can escalate into something else.

What You Need to Know About Boating Under the Influence

Published on: May 26, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Is there more than one way for police to charge a person with DWI?”

The summer months are upon us, and more people are beginning to enjoy boating with friends and family. As the popularity of this recreational activity continues to grow, it is important to remain aware of the potential dangers of boating to prevent harm and injury to yourself and others.

Five Reasons to Choose a Private Criminal Defense Attorney Over a Public Defender

Published on: May 19, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I simply intend to plead guilty, why do I need a lawyer?”

Under the Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, you have a right to be represented by an attorney provided and paid by the state. While you can use a public defender if you cannot afford a private attorney, doing so might negatively impact the outcome of your criminal case.