Criminal convictions

What Criminal Diversion Programs are Available in North Carolina?

Published on: August 7, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What Criminal Diversion Programs are Available in North Carolina?

If you are charged with a crime, you know that you are likely facing a difficult legal process that could result in a conviction. If convicted, you may face penalties that could include fines, probation, and a prison sentence. North Carolina offers criminal diversion programs to help those who are eligible. Diversion programs typically target first-time offenders. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney will help you through the legal process.

What is a Criminal Diversion Program?

Criminal Diversion Programs

Published on: June 29, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “I was found not guilty of a charge, buy my record still shows the charge. What is going on?”

What are Criminal Diversion Programs?

What Happens if You Steal From a Retail Store in Charlotte, North Carolina?

Published on: November 20, 2019 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

North Carolina law recognizes theft as taking someone else’s property without their permission to permanently deprive the owner of the item. Theft, burglary, and shoplifting are serious crimes. Being charged with one of these crimes carries the risk of losing your freedom and facing other life-changing consequences.

The Hidden Costs of DWI in North Carolina

Published on: June 5, 2019 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What happens if I am convicted of a DUI or DWI in Charlotte North Carolina?”

We all have heard the stories of families losing loved ones to those who have driven under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or drivers losing their own lives because they drove while impaired. These are sad stories and serve as a cautionary tale of avoiding impaired driving. Nevertheless, drivers in North Carolina are frequently charged with driving while impaired (DWI). Depending on whether this is your first time being charged with a DWI, or if it is a second or subsequent offense, the penalties for a DWI can be steep. In addition to fines and jail time that those convicted of DWI face, there are other ramifications of this criminal conviction that impact them for the rest of their lives. For additional resources regarding DWI click HERE.

Can Criminal Charges be Dropped?

Published on: October 24, 2018 | 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?”

The prospect of facing criminal charges can lead to anxiety and uncertainty, regardless if the crime is a felony or a misdemeanor. You might think that the only possible outcome is being found guilty or innocent. However, in North Carolina there are additional results for criminal charges. It is important to note that there is no guarantee of any outcome in a criminal charge. Instead, it is helpful to know all of the possible outcomes for your case. Criminal convictions can have life-altering consequences that follow you for years to come. The following are alternatives to a finding of guilt or innocence in a criminal charge.

Report Reveals Cost Of Drug Possession Crimes

Published on: October 20, 2016 | 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?”

One unfortunate consequence of the recent election mess has been that little attention is getting paid to some serious issues. While reporters hunt for embarrassing information about the presidential candidates, not enough is being done to force either of the major party nominees to speak to some troubling concerns, including issues like criminal justice reform. A recently published report lays out some of those troubles, putting in stark terms the terrible toll drug possession crimes take on the country.