Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Blog

Is Marijuana Legal in North Carolina?

Published on: April 8, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Is Marijuana Legal in North Carolina?

Marijuana is a common drug in the United States and elsewhere. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 52 million Americans have used cannabis at least once. That equals about 19% of the population. Although marijuana is quite popular, it is considered a controlled substance. The use of marijuana is illegal both federally and in the state of North Carolina. It is helpful to understand the laws that govern the use, possession, and sale of marijuana, and the penalties for violating the law.

What is Marijuana?

Distracted Driving FAQ

Published on: April 1, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Distracted Driving FAQ

With almost 10 million registered vehicles in North Carolina, it is no surprise that the roads are becoming more and more crowded. At the same time, technology continues to improve, allowing access to cell phones, GPS, and more, even when we are behind the wheel. Distractions while driving are common, and there are laws in place to protect road safety. Law enforcement may issue a ticket for someone who is driving while distracted.

What is Distracted Driving?

What are Super Speeder Laws in North Carolina?

Published on: March 25, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What are Super Speeder Laws in North Carolina?

Almost everyone drives over the speed limit from time to time. Driving just a few miles per hour over the limit is usually not much of a problem. Speeding can take on a different and more dangerous problem when a vehicle is driving more than 15 mph above the limit. Most states have laws in place to address super speeders. North Carolina does have legislation in place that applies to those who are driving at excessive speeds.

What is “Super Speeding”?

Types of Pleas – Which One is Best for My Criminal Case?

Published on: March 18, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Types of Pleas – Which One is Best for My Criminal Case?

As a defendant in a criminal case, you are facing one or more charges. The legal process will proceed based on the type of charges as well as your plea to them. Generally, the judge will ask for the defendant’s plea at the time of the first hearing or arraignment. There are three main types of pleas in North Carolina.

Not Guilty: A plea of not guilty is a complete denial of the charges. A not guilty plea will result in a trial to resolve the matter. A trial may be either a bench trial, in front of a judge, or a jury trial.

Navigating DWI Charges: The Importance of Legal Representation

Published on: March 17, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Navigating DWI Charges: The Importance of Legal Representation

Being arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) can be an incredibly stressful and daunting experience. The repercussions of a DWI charge can be severe, potentially resulting in hefty fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Additionally, a DWI conviction can have long-term effects on your personal, professional, and financial life. With so much at stake, it is critical to understand the complexities of DWI laws and the vital importance of having experienced legal representation during this challenging time.

Understanding North Carolina’s DWI Laws

Moving Violation Strategies

Published on: March 11, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Moving Violation Strategies

Almost everyone has received a moving violation at some time or another. Generally, tickets are issued for minor violations, although in some cases, the violations are serious. The rules of the road are in place to protect drivers and provide safety on our roads. When a driver violates a traffic law, they could receive a ticket. If you have too many tickets or a ticket for a serious offense, it could impact your license and may even result in higher vehicle insurance costs.

Don’t Pay the Ticket

Federal DUI Charges

Published on: March 4, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Federal DUI Charges

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense. Usually, DUI charges are made by local or state police under state DWI laws. Many people are unaware that there are separate DUI charges depending on exactly where you were when the incident occurred. If you are on federal property, you could be charged with a federal DUI. There are some differences between a state and federal DUI prosecution. An experienced attorney will guide you through the process.

What is a Federal DUI?

What Traffic Infractions Result In Criminal Charges?

Published on: February 25, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What Traffic Infractions Result In Criminal Charges?

Driving requires you to adhere to the rules of the road. Laws are in place to ensure the safety of all vehicles. Most traffic infractions are minor in nature, and if you are in violation, you could receive a ticket. If you get too many tickets, you could face some consequences, such as the suspension of your driving privileges. However, some violations are considered so egregious that there are also potential criminal charges if you disobey them.

Hit and Run

Defending Indecent Exposure Charges

Published on: February 18, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Defending Indecent Exposure Charges

The public space is protected by various laws. When you are in public, you must obey the laws or face the possibility of arrest. Although a charge of indecent exposure isn’t extremely serious, it can still wreak havoc on your life now and in the future. If you have been charged with indecent exposure or lewd behavior, you will want to seek legal guidance as soon as possible. You will need to protect yourself and defend the charges.

What is Indecent Exposure?

The Science Behind DUI Breath Tests

Published on: February 11, 2026 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

The Science Behind DUI Breath Tests

DWI is a serious offense and one that comes with severe punishments if convicted. When you face DWI charges, you will want to vigorously defend yourself. One of the most important pieces of evidence used to convict in DWI cases is your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). It is helpful to understand the science behind breath tests that are used as evidence so you can defend the charges and avoid conviction. There are possible problems with the accuracy of the results, which you can utilize as part of your defense against the charges.

How Does a Breathalyzer Work?