Criminal attorney

What is My Right to a Speedy Trial?

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

What is My Right to a Speedy Trial?

You have probably heard that defendants have the right to a speedy trial, but you may be unsure what it means. The Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees all citizens the right to a speedy trial. This means that a person who is charged with a federal crime must go to trial no later than 70 days after indictment. The law ensures that you are treated fairly and are not held too long before you get a trial.

How Do I Invoke My Right to a Speedy Trial?

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

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.

Can I Fight Disorderly Conduct Charges?

Published on: November 3, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

A charge of disorderly conduct is typically a misdemeanor crime that may encompass a variety of actions. The police often may charge disorderly conduct along with other charges in a case. While disorderly conduct may seem like a minor crime, it can still cause you problems and can stay on your record. When you are charged with disorderly conduct you may get released immediately or may be held until your first hearing. You will want to fight disorderly conduct charges with the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney,

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.

Do I Need a Criminal Attorney?

Published on: July 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?”

The prospect of having to hire a criminal attorney can be terrifying. No one wants to be in a position to have to figure out whether or not they need legal representation. It is one question you never hope to answer, but is also one of those scenarios in which if you have to ask, you probably do.