Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Blog

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.

What are the DWI Aggravating Factors in North Carolina?

Published on: May 12, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Why is it important to hire a DWI lawyer quickly after being charged with a DWI?”

When a defendant is convicted of driving while impaired (DWI) in North Carolina, they will appear at a sentencing hearing. At the hearing, the judge will review the evidence and hear arguments from the attorneys to determine the appropriate sentence for the defendant.

What is Domestic Criminal Trespass in North Carolina?

Published on: May 5, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “The person that called the police doesn’t want to press charges, can I still be prosecuted?”

Generally, when people get divorced or legally separated, one of the spouses will leave the marital home. Often, the spouse who leaves is prohibited from returning home either while the divorce is pending or forever.

What are the Penalties for Hit-and-Run in North Carolina?

Published on: April 28, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

In North Carolina, drivers who leave the scene of a car accident can face criminal charges for a hit-and-run. The consequences of a hit-and-run conviction in North Carolina depend on whether the crime is classified as a felony or a misdemeanor.