DUI Tag Archives — Page 2 of 12 — Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Blog

What are Field Sobriety Tests?

Published on: December 15, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Do I have to perform the field sobriety tests when I’m pulled over for DWI in NC?”

When you get pulled over by the police, they may wonder whether you have been drinking. Law enforcement may ask you to perform some field sobriety tests (FSTs). You may be familiar with these types of tests that police officers use to assess your sobriety. These tests are designed to assess your potential level of alcohol impairment. FSTs are commonly used across all law enforcement agencies in the state and country. A DWI charge can be extremely serious and could result in severe consequences such as the loss of your driving privileges, fines, jail time, and other penalties.

What is the DWI Lookback Period in North Carolina?

Published on: December 9, 2020 | 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?”

Courts must consider a variety of factors, including previous DWI convictions on the defendant’s record, to choose an appropriate sentence and penalties.

Can North Carolina Police Use Facial Recognition to Make Arrests?

Published on: March 4, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

It may seem that facial recognition is everywhere in the 21st century. The technology that can identify a person by comparing an image of his or her face to a database of photos and videos is used by airports, police departments, and even your phone.

Charlotte Police Creates Map of Violent Crime ‘Hot Spots’ in the City

Published on: January 15, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

After 108 homicides in Charlotte last year, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department prepared a map of violent crime “hot spots” in the city. The map was shown to members of the Charlotte City Council. The department told council members that it would use all available data to address crime as a public health issue. However, CMPD also complained that it would not be able to lower violent crime on its own, as reported by WFAE.

Why You Need a DUI Criminal Defense Attorney During the Holidays

Published on: November 27, 2019 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Are breath test results always accurate?”

If you were pulled over during a DUI stop anywhere between Thanksgiving and the end of New Year’s weekend, and police officers suspect that you are intoxicated, it can be quite difficult to prove them wrong.

Three Types of Ignition Interlock Device Violations in North Carolina

Published on: August 28, 2019 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Why is it important to hire a DWI lawyer quickly after being charged with a DWI?”

The state of North Carolina has one of the most robust ignition interlock device (IID) programs in the country. For this reason, you may be required to install an IID in your vehicle after a DUI conviction. Always refer to the court order terms and conditions of the interlock device use, because if you do not follow the rules, you can face further legal trouble. If law enforcement charges you with an interlock violation, discuss the matter with a North Carolina DUI attorney right away to ensure your rights are protected.

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.

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.

U.S. Supreme Court to Hear Case on Implied Consent

Published on: February 13, 2019 | 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?”

Only a small percentage of cases make their way to the United States Supreme Court. The case of State v. Mitchell is one of the chosen few that will be heard by the justices in the coming term. The case revolves around the issue of implied consent. State v. Mitchell originated in Wisconsin, but its content is not a stranger to North Carolina. The North Carolina Supreme Court heard a case about implied consent in State v. Romano. In Romano, the North Carolina court found that withdrawing blood from an unconscious DWI suspect violated the Fourth Amendment because there was no exigent circumstance.

Can I Get a DWI Without Drinking Alcohol?

Published on: January 30, 2019 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Is there more than one way for police to charge a person with DWI?”

We have all heard of a driving under influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI). Additionally, most associate both a DUI and a DWI with drinking too much alcohol and getting behind the wheel of a vehicle. In North Carolina, DUIs and DWIs are often thought of as the same thing and used interchangeably. Did you know that is it not just alcohol that can result in a DUI or DWI charge? Driving under the influence of drugs can also result in a DWI or DUI charge.