Attorney

When is it Legal and Illegal to Carry a Concealed Gun in North Carolina?

Published on: October 7, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?”

While your right to carry firearms is protected under the federal constitution, depending on the circumstances you can still be arrested for carrying a gun in North Carolina. In fact, you can be arrested for having a gun without a permit during a traffic stop in North Carolina. This recently happened to a North Carolina woman traveling through New York. According to the Buffalo News, a woman was arrested for having a gun without a permit. Police officers arrested the woman during a traffic stop in Lackawanna. The 21-year-old was a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped by police for a traffic violation. She was charged with fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

Do North Carolina Police Officers Need a Warrant to Search Your Home?

Published on: September 30, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can the police search my car without a warrant?”

If you are familiar with your constitutional rights in the U.S., you probably know that the Fourth Amendment protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. In other words, police officers must have a warrant to search your home, person, and belongings.

Can You Face Criminal Charges for Letting a Drunk Person Drive While Intoxicated in North Carolina?

Published on: September 23, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What am I obligated to do if I’ve been pulled for Drinking and Driving?”

You probably know that driving under the influence of alcohol can get you in trouble with the law, but in North Carolina, you can also face criminal charges if you are a passenger in a vehicle operated by an intoxicated driver.

What is Considered a Crime Against Nature in North Carolina?

Published on: September 16, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question:”A past conviction is keeping me from finding work. What can I do?”

https://youtu.be/Uh7nLM7xVBw

While many states no longer use the term “crime against nature” to criminalize sex acts between two consenting adults, the state of North Carolina still uses the offense to punish wrongdoers.

How to Pursue Compensation for Wrongful Incarceration in North Carolina?

Published on: September 9, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Do I need to hire an attorney if I have been falsely accused?”

Criminal courts use proof beyond a reasonable doubt, the highest legal standard of proof, to ensure that people are imprisoned for actually committing a crime rather than merely being suspected of committing it.

New Study Reveals the Most Common Types of Crimes Committed in North Carolina

Published on: August 26, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

The most recent research published on 24/7 Wall St. revealed the most common types of crimes that are being committed in Charlotte and other parts of North Carolina. The study concluded that in 2018, the most recent year for which crime data is available, crime was more common in North Carolina than it was on average across the United States.

Are There Any Defenses for Speeding Violations in North Carolina?

Published on: August 19, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can I represent myself on a traffic ticket?”

In some situations, you have no choice but to exceed the speed limit. Every car owner has been in this situation at least once in their lifetime. However, how do you explain to a police officer that you had no choice but to speed? Are there any defenses to speeding violations?

Can My Criminal Defense Attorney Appear in Court on My Behalf?

Published on: August 12, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can I represent myself on a traffic ticket?”

If the mere thought of standing in front of a judge in court is too overwhelming or scary, you may wonder whether your criminal defense lawyer can appear in court for you. If, for some reason, you cannot or do not want to show up at a court hearing in person, can your attorney appear on your behalf so that you do not have to reschedule the upcoming hearing?

What are Conspiracy Charges in North Carolina and Why do You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Published on: August 5, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Do I need to hire an attorney if I have been falsely accused?”

Conspiracy is defined as an agreement between two or more people to do something unlawful. What penalties can you face for “conspiring” in North Carolina? If you are planning to commit a crime in Charlotte or elsewhere in North Carolina, you can be charged with criminal conspiracy.

Criminal Charges and Penalties for Driving Without a License in North Carolina

Published on: July 29, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can I represent myself on a traffic ticket?”

North Carolina law prohibits driving a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license. Individuals who are caught driving without a license face penalties that may include fines and a jail sentence.