drug trafficking

What is the Difference Between Drug Possession and Trafficking?

Published on: August 24, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

https://youtu.be/OXhr7O-8PVA

If you get stopped for a traffic violation or have your home searched, it could result in police finding illicit drugs or drug paraphernalia. The possession of illegal drugs is a crime that itself could be serious, but sometimes a person faces drug trafficking charges. Drug trafficking charges are more severe than possession charges and come with harsh penalties if you are found guilty. If the police charge you with any type of drug charge, you will want to seek legal guidance from an experienced criminal attorney.

How Do Law Enforcement Officers Decide to Bring a Drug Distribution Charge?

Published on: July 7, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

Facing a drug distribution charge is a very serious matter. But how do law enforcement officers and prosecutors decide whether to charge you with possession of a controlled substance, a lesser charge, or distribution or trafficking of a controlled substance, the more serious charge?

What Does Mandatory Minimum Sentencing Mean in North Carolina?

Published on: January 6, 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?”

North Carolina law does not have mandatory minimum sentences for most criminal offenses. In most criminal cases, prosecutors can offer a plea bargain while judges have discretion over the sentences they impose.

Types of Racketeering Offenses and Defenses to RICO Charges

Published on: November 11, 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?”

RICO stands for the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, a federal law created in the 1970s to fight organized crime. Law enforcement agencies devote extensive resources to prosecute and convict individuals who take part in organized crime schemes.

Building a Defense When Facing Felony Drug Charges in North Carolina

Published on: March 18, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

In North Carolina, felony drug charges are one of the most serious crimes an individual can face. A conviction could lead to hefty fines and decades in prison, not to mention that a drug conviction on your criminal record will impact your ability to find a job, go to college, and even find a place to live, among other consequences.

Judge Rules for First Time that Feds Can’t Use Your Cell Phone as a Tracking Device Without Warrant

Published on: September 29, 2016 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

In what is reported as the first federal ruling of its kind, a federal judge in New York ruled this August that the government cannot use a fake cell tower known as a stingray to locate a drug suspect in his apartment. A stingray simulates a cell phone tower in order to determine a mobile phone’s physical location; the device acts to intercept data from a targeted phone and other information from other phones that are within its vicinity.

Drug Crimes, Ex-Cons and Food Stamps

Published on: November 10, 2015 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith of Arnold & Smith, PLLC answers the question: I was found not guilty of a charge, but my record still shows the charge.

As we’ve mentioned many times before, being convicted of a crime can have very serious repercussions on your life. Beyond the obvious fines and jail time, a criminal conviction can cast a long shadow. Those convicted of certain crimes may be denied student loans, certain government housing, face a more difficult time finding work and, in some cases, even be denied food stamps. To find out more about how a criminal conviction could result in a denial of such an important benefit like money for food, keep reading.