Criminal Charges

Can I Carry a Gun in My Car?

Published on: March 29, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Can I Carry a Gun in My Car?

The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution provides all citizens with the right to bear arms. North Carolina has a gun ownership rate of 45.8%, which means that almost half the adults in the state own firearms. While it is your right to own a firearm, firearm owners must follow the law. Responsible gun owners need to know the laws to ensure that they are not charged with a gun crime. There are various laws in place that pertain to gun ownership in North Carolina.

Gun Ownership Laws

Does North Carolina Have a Stand Your Ground Law?

Published on: March 22, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Does North Carolina Have a Stand Your Ground Law?

Residents have a right to defend themselves and their property. The ability to protect and defend your home has been in the news over the last decade. More and more states have enacted “stand your ground” laws to clarify your rights and provide guidance for how and when it is legal to use force to protect yourself. At least half the states have such a law on the books. North Carolina has had a “stand your ground” law in place since 2011. An experienced North Carolina criminal defense attorney will answer your questions and defend against your charges.

What Does it Mean to Stand Your Ground?

What Happens if the Police Do Not Read Me My Rights During an Arrest?

Published on: May 18, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

Getting detained and arrested by the police can be a traumatic experience. The situation often happens rather quickly and only later do you begin to think about how the incident unfolded. While most people understand that they have constitutional rights, they often forget about them completely when they are under the stress of being detained or questioned by law enforcement. When you watch television crime shows you may notice that when someone is arrested without their rights having been read, the judge might throw the entire case out. Although this happens on fictional programs, it is not what usually occurs in real life.

What is Insider Trading?

Published on: April 13, 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?”

A recent report indicated that Congressman Madison Cawthorn may have broken the law by participating in an alleged insider trading scheme involving cryptocurrency. Lawmakers called on Congress to investigate Rep. Cawthorn’s activities.

Fleeing the Scene of an Accident

Published on: March 23, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

Rules are in place to ensure that drivers are careful on the road. The law requires drivers to have liability insurance to cover any damages and injuries that occur due to their negligence in an accident. Although most accidents are minor, some are more serious and result in severe injuries. Those who are involved in accidents are required to remain on the scene. If you leave the scene of an accident, you may face criminal charges. If you face criminal charges for fleeing the scene of an accident, you may want to consult with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

How Does Bond Work?

Published on: February 23, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I have an outstanding warrant, what should I do?”

If you are charged in a criminal case, the situation can be terrifying. The legal system might seem complicated, especially for those who have not previously faced criminal charges. There are many processes and procedures that are necessary following an arrest. One of the initial hearings with the judge is where the defendant will learn of the charges and the judge will determine bail. The attorneys can provide arguments as to why the defendant should or should not have a particular amount of bond or any bond at all. A criminal defense attorney will represent you through this process and answer questions and provide guidance throughout.

Expunctions in North Carolina

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

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question:”What is an expungement?”

When an individual is charged with a crime and sentenced to either prison time, probation, or some other form of reparation, it is expected that the individual carries out that sentence. However, once the terms of the sentencing are over, the record of their conviction stays with them, often impeding their ability to find gainful employment and advance in society. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help individuals have these charges removed from their record through a process called expunction. Read on for what North Carolina residents should know about expunctions in their state.

Vehicle Theft and Other Related Charges

Published on: January 12, 2022 | 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?”

Vehicle theft is a crime that is becoming more common in recent years. Vehicle theft is a type of larceny and in some states it is often called grand theft auto because of the value of the stolen property. Charges of auto theft can be extremely serious and a conviction could result in a punishment that might include a jail sentence, fines, retribution, community service, and probation. Vehicle theft can be a complex charge and you may face additional or related charges, as well. A knowledgeable North Carolina criminal defense attorney will help protect your rights and vigorously defend these charges.

Manslaughter Charges in North Carolina

Published on: December 1, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I have an outstanding warrant, what should I do?”

Manslaughter charges occur when someone dies due to the negligence of someone else. If you are charged with manslaughter you are facing severe consequences if you are found guilty. Manslaughter is different from murder because of the state of mind of the defendant at the time of commission of the crime. Murder shows intent, malice, or aforethought or extreme disregard for human life. When a person is killed without specific intent to murder, the likely charge will be manslaughter. Because manslaughter charges are considered serious, you will want to fight the case with help from an experienced criminal defense attorney in North Carolina.

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.