Misdemeanor charges

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 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

Can I Travel on an Airplane With a Firearm?

Published on: May 15, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Can I Travel on an Airplane With a Firearm?

Many citizens in North Carolina own at least one firearm. According to a report, about 46% of households in North Carolina had at least one gun. The number could be even higher. Often, people keep firearms for protection or for hunting. If you plan to travel, you may want to bring your firearm along with you. It is important to know the laws that apply to bringing firearms and other weapons to the airport and how to pack them properly for legal travel.

Can I Carry a Firearm at the Airport?

Habitual Felons in North Carolina

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

Habitual Felons in North Carolina

Felonies are usually serious charges that can result in severe penalties if convicted. The penalties are designed to deter people from committing crimes in the future. Sometimes, a convicted felon commits another crime. Most states have laws in place that require stiffer penalties when someone has previously been convicted of a felony. These laws are often called “three-strike” laws and pertain to people who have two prior felony convictions. These people are known as habitual felons.

What is a Habitual Felon?

What is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and Felony?

Published on: October 25, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and Felony?

When you are charged with a crime it may be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Regardless, any criminal charges against you are serious and could result in severe consequences. Some penalties could include a prison sentence, fines, probation, community service, suspension of your driver’s license, and more, depending on the charges. There are some important differences between misdemeanor and felony charges, and you will want to speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Misdemeanors and Felonies

Gun Permits No Longer Required in North Carolina

Published on: April 12, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Gun Permits No Longer Required in North Carolina

The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution gives citizens the right to bear arms. Many federal, state, and local laws are in place to govern gun ownership across the country. Recent legislation has removed the requirement for gun permits in North Carolina. This means that residents may purchase and own a handgun without having to obtain a permit from the local sheriff. This is a change to a permit requirement that was previously in place. The change takes effect immediately.

Handgun Permit Repeal

Can I Carry a Gun in My Car?

Published on: March 29, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Can I Carry a Gun in My Car?

The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution provides all citizens with the right to bear arms. North Carolina has a gun ownership rate of 45.8%, which means that almost half the adults in the state own firearms. While it is your right to own a firearm, firearm owners must follow the law. Responsible gun owners need to know the laws to ensure that they are not charged with a gun crime. There are various laws in place that pertain to gun ownership in North Carolina.

Gun Ownership Laws

These are the Most Famous Criminal Defense Cases

Published on: January 26, 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?”

When someone is charged with a crime, it is up to that individual’s criminal defense attorney to prove to the court that the charges levied against the defendant are not substantial enough to warrant a conviction. While criminal defense attorneys help all kinds of cases, some of these cases garner national attention. Read on for information on some of the most famous criminal defense cases.

What are Misdemeanor Charges in North Carolina?

Published on: December 29, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?”

In North Carolina, as in other states, there are two main categories of crimes that include misdemeanors and felonies. Although you might be charged with a misdemeanor, it does not mean you should not take the charges seriously. Even misdemeanor convictions result in severe punishments and could negatively impact your life for many years. If you are charged with a crime, regardless of the classification, it is usually in your best interest to seek guidance from a qualified criminal defense attorney in North Carolina. Your attorney will protect your rights and strongly defend the charges.

Criminal Charges and Penalties for Driving Without a License in North Carolina

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

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

North Carolina law prohibits driving a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license. Individuals who are caught driving without a license face penalties that may include fines and a jail sentence.