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BAC Explained

Published on: June 7, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

BAC Explained

One of the most serious offenses that a driver may be charged with is driving while impaired, DWI. All states have DWI laws in place to restrict driving a motor vehicle while impaired due to the use of drugs or alcohol. In North Carolina, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. The police may arrest a driver when their BAC is 0.08% or higher, or they are suspected of driving while impaired. Some people think there is a magic number of drinks they can consume before they reach impairment, but that is not true.

How the Body Utilizes Alcohol

Do I Have to Identify Myself to the Police?

Published on: May 31, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Do I Have to Identify Myself to the Police?

Many people watch police reality shows on television and notice that the police always ask for identification. In fact, it is usually the first thing they do when they approach someone. If you have been stopped by the police while driving, you know that the officer likely immediately asked for your name. Some people wonder whether they are required to identify themselves to the police. If you were charged with a crime, it is helpful to seek legal guidance from an experienced criminal defense attorney in North Carolina.

Must I Identify Myself to the Police?

Defenses to Looting and Trespassing During a Protest in North Carolina

Published on: June 10, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

Looting is almost synonymous with protests. This was evident during the recent protests over the killing of a black man in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As reported by Fox News, eight people were charged in connection with looting and trespassing while protesting in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Can You be Arrested and Charged With a Crime for Protesting in North Carolina?

Published on: June 3, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

Several cities in North Carolina enacted a curfew in response to protests over the killing of George Floyd. In Charlotte, 30 people were arrested during the second night of protests, according to WBTV.

Is Having Sex When You Have an STD a Crime in North Carolina?

Published on: May 27, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “My relationship is ending and they are threatening to call the police, how can I help myself?”

How can You Get a Speedy Trial in North Carolina During the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Published on: May 6, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

The coronavirus pandemic, which paralyzed the U.S. court system, made it problematic for defendants to get a speedy trial. Luckily, there are ways to defend your right to a speedy trial despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

North Carolina Prisons to Release High-Risk Inmates Amid COVID-19 Fears

Published on: April 15, 2020 | 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?”

North Carolina’s state prisons are releasing some inmates out early in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19 in prisons. The announcement was made by the state’s corrections officials, according to the Charlotte Observer.

Can You be Arrested for Violating the ‘Stay-at-Home’ Order in North Carolina?

Published on: April 1, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

After North Carolina’s “stay-at-home” order went into effect on March 30, 2020, to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), many residents began to wonder, “Can I be fined or arrested for violating the order?” and “Are there criminal charges if I do not comply with the order?”

What are Mitigating Circumstances for Crimes in North Carolina?

Published on: March 11, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “When can I post on Social media about my ongoing case?”

If you are facing criminal charges in North Carolina, your potential sentence for the offense could be reduced if “mitigating circumstances” are found. In North Carolina, felony sentences depend on whether any mitigating or aggravating circumstances exist.

Defenses to a Failed Breathalyzer Test in North Carolina

Published on: February 26, 2020 | 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 for driving while impaired (DWI) in Charlotte or other parts of North Carolina, a police officer might order a breathalyzer test to determine your blood alcohol concentration (BAC).