DUI/DWI

DWI Sentencing Factors in North Carolina

Published on: June 15, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What happens if I am convicted of a DUI or DWI in Charlotte North Carolina?”

DWI, driving while impaired, is a serious charge. When a driver is stopped for DWI, they can expect to perform some roadside field sobriety tests and breathe into a breathalyzer device. If police officers believe that you are demonstrating signs of impairment, you will likely be arrested for DWI. If you are charged with DWI you will be facing a wide range of penalties if you are convicted. A knowledgeable DWI attorney will help protect your rights and will craft a defense to charges through the legal process.

What’s The Difference Between a Misdemeanor DWI And a Felony DWI?

Published on: May 4, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What steps should I be taking outside legal guidance to help my DWI case?”

Driving while impaired, DWI, is also known as drunk driving. Driving while impaired simply means operating a motor vehicle while you have a diminished or loss of capacity. Impairment is most often due to alcohol intoxication, but it may also include impairment due to illegal drugs or prescription medications. DWI is a serious offense and if found guilty, you could face numerous penalties that may harm you and your family for many years to come. If you were charged with DWI you will want to fight the charges with help from a qualified DWI attorney in North Carolina.

Breathalyzer Tests – FAQ

Published on: April 6, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Are breath test results always accurate?”

Police commonly use breathalyzer tests to determine whether a driver is impaired. In North Carolina, the legal alcohol limit is 0.08% blood alcohol concentration (BAC). If you are found to have a BAC higher than 0.08% you could be arrested and charged with driving while impaired (DWI). It is helpful to understand breathalyzer tests so you know your rights if you get stopped by law enforcement.

Can I Fight DWI Charges in North Carolina?

Published on: March 2, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “How can an attorney help me with my DWI?”

It can happen to almost anyone. You are on your way home when you are stopped by police. A typical traffic stop can turn into DWI charges rather quickly. Suddenly, you find yourself in a difficult and terrifying situation. DWI, driving while impaired, is a serious charge. If convicted, you could face serious penalties that might impact every aspect of your life for years to come. When faced with this situation you may wonder what options are available to you and whether you can fight DWI charges. A skilled DWI attorney in North Carolina will assist you in defending these serious charges and help you resolve the matter as favorably as possible.

How Can I Restore My Driving Privileges After a DWI?

Published on: January 5, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Why is it important to hire a DWI lawyer quickly after being charged with a DWI?”

Driving while impaired is a charge that law enforcement takes very seriously. Arrest data shows that there were almost 28,000 DWI arrests in North Carolina in 2018. A DWI conviction results in a variety of severe consequences, including the temporary suspension of your driver’s license. If you lost your driving privileges due to a DWI you need to know how you can regain your license. A knowledgeable North Carolina criminal defense attorney understands DWI laws and will guide you through the process of obtaining your license again following a DWI conviction.

What are Field Sobriety Tests?

Published on: December 15, 2021 | 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?”

When you get pulled over by the police, they may wonder whether you have been drinking. Law enforcement may ask you to perform some field sobriety tests (FSTs). You may be familiar with these types of tests that police officers use to assess your sobriety. These tests are designed to assess your potential level of alcohol impairment. FSTs are commonly used across all law enforcement agencies in the state and country. A DWI charge can be extremely serious and could result in severe consequences such as the loss of your driving privileges, fines, jail time, and other penalties.

DWI Checkpoints: What You Need To Know

Published on: December 8, 2021 | 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?”

You are driving down the road and suddenly, you see police activity ahead — a sure sign of a DWI checkpoint. You may feel scared and uneasy, even if you know that you are well under the legal limit. It is helpful to understand DWI checkpoints in North Carolina and what to do when you encounter one of these on your route. If you are charged with DWI in North Carolina, you will want to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to help guide you through the legal process for the best possible outcome.

Disorderly Conduct and Public Intoxication

Published on: November 24, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What am I obligated to do if I’ve been pulled for Drinking and Driving?”

Disorderly conduct and public intoxication are actions that when combined may result in criminal charges. Disruptive behaviors along with intoxication may also result in criminal charges. Although you may often hear about public intoxication, it is not a crime to be drunk in public unless there are accompanying behaviors that are disruptive. North Carolina law provides for a number of acts that are disruptive. These include blocking traffic, blocking a sidewalk, starting a fight, cursing at or insulting someone, and begging. If you are charged with a disorderly conduct type of charge, it can come with significant penalties and a conviction will give you a criminal record. It is best to seek legal assistance from a reputable criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Do I Need a DWI Lawyer in North Carolina?

Published on: October 6, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “How can an attorney help me with my DWI?”

DWI, driving while impaired, is a charge that you should take seriously. Law enforcement will not turn a blind eye to someone who is driving while under the influence. A police officer can stop you, assess your condition, and arrest you on DWI charges. Some people think they can defend themselves against DWI charges, but that could result in less than favorable results. The laws are complex and therefore it is usually in your best interest to hire a DWI lawyer to assist you through the process. You certainly do not want to face the harsh penalties that are possible with a DWI conviction.

Driving While Intoxicated in North Carolina: What Residents Should Know

Published on: August 4, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “What steps should I be taking outside legal guidance to help my DWI case?”

Every year, millions of Americans relax and unwind with an alcoholic beverage. Sometimes a person’s inhibitions will be lowered when they consume too much alcohol, to the point that their executive functions lower significantly. When these individuals then attempt to get behind the wheel and drive, the result can be accidents that cause severe injuries to themselves and other drivers, as well as serious criminal charges.