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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 is the North Carolina Innocence Inquiry Commission?

Published on: March 15, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What is the North Carolina Innocence Inquiry Commission?

If you were wrongfully convicted of a crime in North Carolina, there is something you can do about it. Besides filing an appeal, your case might qualify for review by the North Carolina Innocence Inquiry Commission. The Commission has the legal authority to evaluate and make a determination of innocence based on new information or evidence. The NCIIC recently celebrated its 15th anniversary.

What is the North Carolina Innocence Inquiry Commission?

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Published on: March 8, 2023 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Car manufacturers have been steadily improving the safety of vehicles over the years. As a result, cars are safer than ever before. Unfortunately, accidents are still occurring at a rising rate. One of the reasons for an increase in accidents is distracted driving. Distracted driving increased with the increased use of cell phones. Although it is illegal to use a handheld device while driving, many people still use their phones to text. Texting and other examples of distractions can result in accidents. April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

What is Distracted Driving?

Should I Take a Plea Deal?

Published on: October 20, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

When you have been charged with a crime you may feel scared and unsure of what to expect. Your charges could result in severe punishments if you are convicted. You may wonder whether you will be able to take a plea deal or whether they will even offer one. A plea deal, also called a plea bargain, is a common option for those facing a wide range of criminal charges. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, up to 95% of all state and federal criminal cases conclude with a plea bargain rather than a trial.

New Death Penalty Study Finds it an Unpopular Option

Published on: October 13, 2021 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

A recent report from an Appalachian State University professor sheds light on the death penalty in North Carolina. Government and judicial studies professor Matthew Robinson published the report in June. In the report, professor Robinson examines data to help determine whether the state should continue to maintain the death penalty policy. Under state law, a person can be sentenced to death if convicted of a first-degree murder and meet at least one of a list of aggravating circumstances. When someone is sentenced to the death penalty they will wait in prison until their execution.

How Your Social Media Posts can be Used Against You in a Criminal Case

Published on: July 8, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte Criminal Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “When can I post on Social media about my ongoing case?”

The vast majority of American adults use at least one social media platform every single day. However, did you know that your social media use could potentially be used against you in a criminal case?

When can North Carolina Police Lawfully Search Your Vehicle?

Published on: July 1, 2020 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “Can the police search my car without a warrant?”

Even if you did not commit a crime, talking to police officers during a traffic stop can be a stressful experience. When police suspect that you have committed a crime, they may want to search your vehicle. However, unless your circumstances meets the criteria that allow police to do a warrantless search, law enforcement officers need your permission to search your vehicle.

Can You Reduce a DWI Charge to Reckless Driving in North Carolina?

Published on: June 24, 2020 | 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?”

In North Carolina, as in many other states, being charged with driving while impaired (DWI) is a serious offense that carries harsh penalties, including fines and even a potential jail sentence. Many of those who have been charged with DWI in North Carolina are wondering if it is possible to reduce the charge to a less serious offense, such as reckless driving.

Hate Crimes Decrease in Charlotte, North Carolina: Penalties and Defense

Published on: December 18, 2019 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

A new report by the FBI showed a slight decrease in hate crimes in Charlotte metro last year compared with 2017. The Federal Bureau of Investigation tracks the number of hate crimes, along with all other types of non-violent and violent crimes, on a year-over-year basis.