Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I ever plead guilty to a charge?” For millions of American citizens, owning a concealed carry weapon provides a measure of unparalleled security. However, if an individual is charged with a criminal offense and is found to be in possession…
Articles Posted in Guns/Firearms
Is Self Defense a Valid Defense of a Crime?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “The person that called the police doesn’t want to press charges, can I still be prosecuted?” A violent incident can happen in a second. When a confrontation occurs, it can result in one or the other party suffering severe injuries or…
Concealed Carry Eligibility in North Carolina: What Residents Should Know
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” For millions of Americans, the right to own and operate a firearm, as established under the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution, is not something to be taken…
Gun Control Laws in North Carolina
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?” The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution states that citizens have the right to bear arms. While the right to purchase and own guns is a federal right and one…
Self Defense Laws in North Carolina: A Resource for Residents
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” There is an old saying that goes, “A person’s home is their castle.” This phrase is used to explain the deeply intrinsic motivation we have to protect our property…
When is it Legal and Illegal to Carry a Concealed Gun in North Carolina?
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?” While your right to carry firearms is protected under the federal constitution, depending on the circumstances you can still be arrested for carrying a gun in North Carolina. In fact, you…
A Surge in Shootings and Other Crimes in Charlotte During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Should I talk to the police?” Shootings and unlawful possession of firearms have spiked in Charlotte despite the COVID-19 pandemic and stay-at-home orders. Police department officials in Charlotte are urging the public to stay safe because it appears that the pandemic…
Gun Carry Laws in North Carolina
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” The U.S. and North Carolina Constitutions protect your right to bear arms. However, that right does not extend to carrying a gun wherever or whenever you wish. There are…
Can Police Take My Gun During a Traffic Stop?
Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can the police search my car without a warrant?” The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution gives citizens the right to bear arms. This is not to say that a person is lawfully permitted to carry a weapon at all…
Self-Defense, Intent, and Duty to Retreat in North Carolina
Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What are the long term effects of being convicted of a crime?” Being in a situation fearing for your life and/or safety is not a place many people want to be. Anyone who has been in that situation will tell you…