Dilworth

Auto Theft in North Carolina

Published on: June 21, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Auto Theft in North Carolina

Auto theft is another term for stealing a car. Car theft is a serious crime, and it pertains to all types of motorized vehicles. Auto theft crimes in North Carolina fall under the general category of larceny. If you are convicted of an auto theft crime, you could face numerous penalties, and it could limit your ability to get a job, obtain a scholarship, get an apartment, seek a loan, and more. It is critical to vigorously defend auto theft charges with help from a qualified North Carolina criminal defense attorney.

What is Larceny?

Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help Me With DWI Charges?

Published on: June 14, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help Me With DWI Charges?

DWI, or driving while impaired, is a serious charge. You may be pulled over for a traffic infraction and suddenly find yourself performing roadside field sobriety tests. The next thing you know, the police test your BAC and take you to jail. Now you are facing severe penalties if you are convicted. These penalties could cause problems for you for many years to come. You may wonder whether you can defend yourself without having to hire an attorney. Be careful here, as going it alone might put your future in jeopardy. An experienced DWI attorney will help you vigorously defend the charges and assist you in getting the best possible outcome.

DWI Charges are Serious

BAC Explained

Published on: June 7, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

BAC Explained

One of the most serious offenses that a driver may be charged with is driving while impaired, DWI. All states have DWI laws in place to restrict driving a motor vehicle while impaired due to the use of drugs or alcohol. In North Carolina, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. The police may arrest a driver when their BAC is 0.08% or higher, or they are suspected of driving while impaired. Some people think there is a magic number of drinks they can consume before they reach impairment, but that is not true.

How the Body Utilizes Alcohol

Do I Have to Identify Myself to the Police?

Published on: May 31, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Do I Have to Identify Myself to the Police?

Many people watch police reality shows on television and notice that the police always ask for identification. In fact, it is usually the first thing they do when they approach someone. If you have been stopped by the police while driving, you know that the officer likely immediately asked for your name. Some people wonder whether they are required to identify themselves to the police. If you were charged with a crime, it is helpful to seek legal guidance from an experienced criminal defense attorney in North Carolina.

Must I Identify Myself to the Police?

How can You Get a Speedy Trial in North Carolina During the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Published on: May 6, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

The coronavirus pandemic, which paralyzed the U.S. court system, made it problematic for defendants to get a speedy trial. Luckily, there are ways to defend your right to a speedy trial despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

What are Mitigating Circumstances for Crimes in North Carolina?

Published on: March 11, 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?”

If you are facing criminal charges in North Carolina, your potential sentence for the offense could be reduced if “mitigating circumstances” are found. In North Carolina, felony sentences depend on whether any mitigating or aggravating circumstances exist.

Should You Turn Yourself in When There is a Warrant for Your Arrest in North Carolina?

Published on: February 5, 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?”

It is scary to think about turning yourself in to the North Carolina police, let alone actually to go to the police station and do it. Many of those who consider turning themselves in are aware of a warrant for their arrest.

How an Apology can be Perceived as Confession and Lead to Criminal Charges

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

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

They say it is better to apologize late than never. However, the same principle does not apply when you are being accused of a crime, especially if you did not commit one.

Is There Gender Bias When Sentencing Female Teachers Who Have Sex with Male Students?

Published on: January 22, 2020 | 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?”

What are Defenses to Motor Vehicle Theft (Auto Larceny) Charges in North Carolina?

Published on: December 4, 2019 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

Stealing a motor vehicle is a serious crime in North Carolina. In addition to auto theft charges, a person can be found guilty of a crime when he or she uses, damages, or misappropriates someone else’s vehicle.