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Shoplifting Charges: What You Need to Know

Published on: October 26, 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?”

More and more stores are adding extra technology that enables them to catch shoplifters in their establishments. If you are charged with shoplifting it can have a negative impact on your life for years in the future. A shoplifting conviction can result in a variety of penalties such as fines, community service, probation, and more. In some cases, you might even end up with a jail sentence. Worst of all, a conviction will be on your record, which may cause you problems with finding employment, renting an apartment, and more. If you are charged with shoplifting, you can fight the charges with help from an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Can I Get A Pardon for a Federal Marijuana Possession Conviction?

Published on: October 19, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long-term effects of being convicted of a crime?”

Marijuana possession is a charge that can result in penalties that include fines and more. Even worse than the fines is the long-term negative impact that a felony conviction can have on your life. From trying to get an apartment to looking for employment to getting into college and beyond, a felony conviction can cause you plenty of turmoil. In a recent proclamation, President Biden officially granted pardons to offenders who were convicted on federal charges of simple marijuana possession. The pardon affects thousands of people who were previously convicted of this crime in federal court.

How Can I Get My Driving Privileges Back After a DWI?

Published on: October 12, 2022 | 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?”

Driving while impaired, DWI, is a serious charge. If you are convicted, you will have some penalties, including the loss of your driving privileges for a period of time. If you are unable to drive, you will likely face many hardships in your life. You will have trouble getting to and from work, so your livelihood might be impacted. It will be difficult to get to doctor’s appointments and driving to stores. You will not be able to drive your children to school. There are some instances that might allow you limited driving privileges.

I’m Innocent: Do I Still Need an Attorney?

Published on: October 5, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Do I need to hire an attorney if I have been falsely accused?”

Every day, thousands of people across the country are arrested on criminal charges. In North Carolina, there are more than 100,000 people serving time in prison after a criminal conviction. The criminal justice system is as fair as possible, but there are times when an innocent person is wrongly convicted. Unfortunately, just because you know you are not guilty does not mean that you will not be convicted. It is critical that you defend the charges against you. This is best accomplished with help from an experienced criminal attorney. You do not need to try to defend yourself. Instead, count on the expertise of a skilled lawyer to assist you through the legal process.

NTSB Proposes Blood Alcohol Measurement Devices in All New Vehicles

Published on: September 27, 2022 | 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?”

NTSB Proposes Blood Alcohol Measurement Devices in All New Vehicles

What Should I Plead in a Criminal Case?

Published on: September 21, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

What Should I Plead in a Criminal Case?

Five Misconceptions About DWI in North Carolina

Published on: September 14, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

Five Misconceptions About DWI in North Carolina

Underage DWI in North Carolina

Published on: September 7, 2022 | 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?”

https://youtu.be/uBfkP-biEGY

Underage DWI in North Carolina

Do I Have the Right to a Trial?

Published on: August 31, 2022 | 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?”

American citizens are afforded many rights. The United States Constitution Bill of Rights provides us with some fundamental rights. We have the right to bear arms, we have the right to free speech, and many others. Part of our unique judicial system is the right to a fair trial. When you are charged with a crime, you are presumed innocent unless and until you are found guilty in a court of law. If you have been arrested for a crime, you need to understand your rights, including the request for a trial, to determine the outcome of your case. An experienced criminal defense attorney will help guide your case, protect your rights, and assist you in defending the charges.

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.