criminal case

Criminal Defense FAQ

Published on: November 2, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Criminal Defense FAQ

If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, you may have questions about what to expect and how you can best prepare for your defense. Generally, criminal charges can be serious, and if you are convicted, you could face severe penalties that might include such things as fines, jail time, community service, probation, and more. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney will help guide you through the process and assist you in vigorously defending the charges.

Will I Be Able to Get Out of Jail on Bail?

How Will My Plea Impact My Criminal Case?

Published on: June 22, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I ever plead guilty to a charge?”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkXdKeM3anU

Facing criminal charges is one of the most daunting experiences of your life. If you have been arrested for a potentially criminal act, you may not know the options that are available to you or what to expect during the process. A criminal defense attorney is often a critical component to help you defend the charges and resolve the matter as favorably as possible. It is your legal right to enter a plea to any criminal charge, but you should do so with as much information and understanding as possible.

How Does Bond Work?

Published on: February 23, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

If you are charged in a criminal case, the situation can be terrifying. The legal system might seem complicated, especially for those who have not previously faced criminal charges. There are many processes and procedures that are necessary following an arrest. One of the initial hearings with the judge is where the defendant will learn of the charges and the judge will determine bail. The attorneys can provide arguments as to why the defendant should or should not have a particular amount of bond or any bond at all. A criminal defense attorney will represent you through this process and answer questions and provide guidance throughout.

Is Self Defense a Valid Defense of a Crime?

Published on: February 9, 2022 | 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?”

A violent incident can happen in a second. When a confrontation occurs, it can result in one or the other party suffering severe injuries or death. Recently, the defendants in several high profile cases have asserted self defense claims in court. Self defense is a defense that asserts that you acted in response to something that could have caused you severe injury or death. Your act therefore was a way to prevent yourself from being killed. If you are accused of a serious crime, it is critical to talk to an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

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 Your Social Media Posts can be Used Against You in a Criminal Case

Published on: July 8, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “When can I post on Social media about my ongoing case?”

The vast majority of American adults use at least one social media platform every single day. However, did you know that your social media use could potentially be used against you in a criminal case?

Do I Need a Criminal Attorney?

Published on: July 17, 2019 | 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?”

The prospect of having to hire a criminal attorney can be terrifying. No one wants to be in a position to have to figure out whether or not they need legal representation. It is one question you never hope to answer, but is also one of those scenarios in which if you have to ask, you probably do.

Opinion-Based Police Testimony in Criminal Cases

Published on: June 12, 2019 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I talk to the police?”

Police are an integral part of society; they keep the peace, catch criminals, and put their lives at risk to keep the general population safe. Since the police play such a large role in solving crimes and convicting criminals, it is not surprising that police officers are often called to testify during court proceedings. An issue arises with police testimony, however, when the officer testifying was not involved with the incident at all. Instead, that officer is offering an opinion, based off of his or her police experience, as to what happened or would have happened. This practice is controversial because someone without actual knowledge, or only investigative knowledge, of the incident is offering testimony that could sway a jury.

Will ‘Aunt Becky’ Go to Jail?

Published on: April 24, 2019 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I ever plead guilty to a charge?”

You have probably heard about “Operation Varsity Blues,” the college admissions scandal that is rocking the nation. Evidence of parents cheating, lying, and bribing their children’s ways into top-level schools around the country has taken the news cycle by storm. The public’s interest in the scandal lies partly with who stands accused of these criminal acts. There are many notable celebrities wrapped up in the scandal. One such celebrity is Lori Loughlin, who played the loveable Aunt Becky in the popular sitcom Full House.

You Need an Attorney to Help Fight a DUI

Published on: April 17, 2019 | 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?”

Getting behind the wheel when you are under the influence of alcohol or other impairing substance is illegal and incredibly dangerous. Those who are caught driving under the influence face some serious penalties. If you have been drinking, the best thing to do is to give your keys to someone else or otherwise get a ride home. However, if you find yourself facing a charge for driving under the influence (DUI), an experienced DUI attorney can help you obtain the best result possible. You might wonder if it is necessary to hire an attorney to fight the DUI charge, the answer is yes. An attorney can be extremely helpful for a variety of reasons.