Mecklenburg County

How Can I Get an Expungement in North Carolina?

Published on: August 21, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

How Can I Get an Expungement in North Carolina?

Having a criminal record can wreak havoc on all aspects of your life. When you are convicted of a crime, whether a misdemeanor or felony, you will have a criminal record that will remain forever. Your record will also show that you were charged with a crime. There are some types of crimes that are eligible for sealing or expungement. If you have a criminal conviction on your record, you may want to speak to a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney to learn whether you may be able to get an expungement.

https://youtu.be/lMcGLBliR40?si=gmXgSzH3592ahltf

Understanding the Castle Doctrine (Stand Your Ground)

Published on: August 14, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Understanding the Castle Doctrine (Stand Your Ground)

You are sitting on your back patio when you suddenly see someone you do not know making their way onto your property. The stranger is getting closer and is heading towards your side door with the possible intent of breaking inside. Do you have the right to defend against the intruder? The Castle Doctrine may allow you to take action, but it is best to understand how the doctrine works and what you are able to do to defend yourself, your family, and your property.

What is the Castle Doctrine?

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?

What are the Differences Between State and Federal Criminal Charges?

Published on: July 10, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What are the Differences Between State and Federal Criminal Charges?

There are many laws in place that include both state and federal charges. Most of the crimes that people commit are state laws, while some crimes are federal. When someone is arrested, the court will determine whether they are accused of committing a state or federal crime. Then, the appropriate charges will apply. There are some differences between state and federal criminal charges. An experienced criminal defense attorney will handle all types of criminal charges, including state and federal.

https://youtu.be/NK9gGmLwAhk

Assault and Battery Charges in North Carolina

Published on: July 3, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Assault and Battery Charges in North Carolina

Assault charges are among the most common types of criminal charges in North Carolina. A conviction of assault charges could result in serious penalties that may include jail time, fines, community service, and more. In North Carolina, there are three main types of crimes that are similar. These include assault, battery, and affray. While these are defined as separate crimes, the penalties if found guilty are basically the same.

Assault – Assault in North Carolina law is defined as “an attempt to injure another by use of force or violence, or an act of force or violence that places another person in reasonable fear of immediate bodily harm.” An assault occurs when someone intends to cause harm to another and not by accident.

Should I Fight a Speeding Ticket in Court?

Published on: June 26, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Should I Fight a Speeding Ticket in Court?

Almost everyone receives a speeding warning or ticket at some time in their lives. A speeding ticket is not necessarily a big deal, but in some cases, it can have a lasting impact. Generally, you have the option to simply send in a payment for the ticket or request a hearing. If you pay the ticket, you are admitting guilt, and therefore, you will be assessed a number of points on your driver’s license. If you wish to fight a speeding ticket, it is often helpful to seek guidance from an experienced defense attorney.

What are Points and Why Do They Matter?

What Happens If I Refuse to Take a DWI Test?

Published on: June 26, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What Happens If I Refuse to Take a DWI Test?

DWI can happen to almost anyone. You had a few drinks at dinner or have been out with friends and feel that you are not drunk. You get behind the wheel, and suddenly, you are stopped by the police. Although you may have been pulled over for a traffic infraction, the police think you might be impaired and ask you to step out of the car. Now you find that you are being asked to perform field sobriety tests and are asked to take a breathalyzer test.

What is a Breathalyzer Test?

What are the Consequences of a Felony Conviction in North Carolina?

Published on: June 19, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What are the Consequences of a Felony Conviction in North Carolina?

A felony conviction will result in a variety of punishments that may include a jail sentence, fines, probation, and community service, among other things. Besides the legal consequences involved, a person convicted of a felony will also suffer consequences that can impact your life for years to come. A felony conviction might cause you difficulties in your ability to get employment, in your education, and even in your personal relationships.

Loss of Some Civil Rights

How Can I Be Removed From the Sex Offender Registry?

Published on: June 12, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

How Can I Be Removed From the Sex Offender Registry?

After conviction on sex crime offenses, a person must follow the legal requirements that apply. A convicted sex offender must not reside within 1,000 feet of a school or daycare facility. A convicted sex offender is not allowed to provide instruction, supervision, or care for children. In addition, a person convicted of sex offenses generally must register as a sex offender. Registration as a sex offender may have a devastating impact on your life, and you may wonder whether you are eligible to get your name removed from the sex offender registry.

Sex Offender Registry

Is it Legal to Possess Marijuana in North Carolina?

Published on: June 5, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Is it Legal to Possess Marijuana in North Carolina?

Marijuana has been considered an illegal drug for years. Possessing, selling, or distributing marijuana is a criminal offense, and if convicted, you could face a sentence that might include fines, community service, confinement, and more. Many states have loosened the laws regarding marijuana, and in some states, the recreational use of marijuana is no longer illegal. In North Carolina, you could still be charged with possession of an illegal drug if you are found with marijuana.

What are the Marijuana Laws in North Carolina?