Gastonia

What are the Differences Between State and Federal Criminal Charges?

Published on: July 10, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What are the Differences Between State and Federal Criminal Charges?

There are many laws in place that include both state and federal charges. Most of the crimes that people commit are state laws, while some crimes are federal. When someone is arrested, the court will determine whether they are accused of committing a state or federal crime. Then, the appropriate charges will apply. There are some differences between state and federal criminal charges. An experienced criminal defense attorney will handle all types of criminal charges, including state and federal.

https://youtu.be/NK9gGmLwAhk

Assault and Battery Charges in North Carolina

Published on: July 3, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Assault and Battery Charges in North Carolina

Assault charges are among the most common types of criminal charges in North Carolina. A conviction of assault charges could result in serious penalties that may include jail time, fines, community service, and more. In North Carolina, there are three main types of crimes that are similar. These include assault, battery, and affray. While these are defined as separate crimes, the penalties if found guilty are basically the same.

Assault – Assault in North Carolina law is defined as “an attempt to injure another by use of force or violence, or an act of force or violence that places another person in reasonable fear of immediate bodily harm.” An assault occurs when someone intends to cause harm to another and not by accident.

Should I Fight a Speeding Ticket in Court?

Published on: June 26, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Should I Fight a Speeding Ticket in Court?

Almost everyone receives a speeding warning or ticket at some time in their lives. A speeding ticket is not necessarily a big deal, but in some cases, it can have a lasting impact. Generally, you have the option to simply send in a payment for the ticket or request a hearing. If you pay the ticket, you are admitting guilt, and therefore, you will be assessed a number of points on your driver’s license. If you wish to fight a speeding ticket, it is often helpful to seek guidance from an experienced defense attorney.

What are Points and Why Do They Matter?

What Happens If I Refuse to Take a DWI Test?

Published on: June 26, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What Happens If I Refuse to Take a DWI Test?

DWI can happen to almost anyone. You had a few drinks at dinner or have been out with friends and feel that you are not drunk. You get behind the wheel, and suddenly, you are stopped by the police. Although you may have been pulled over for a traffic infraction, the police think you might be impaired and ask you to step out of the car. Now you find that you are being asked to perform field sobriety tests and are asked to take a breathalyzer test.

What is a Breathalyzer Test?

What are the Consequences of a Felony Conviction in North Carolina?

Published on: June 19, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

What are the Consequences of a Felony Conviction in North Carolina?

A felony conviction will result in a variety of punishments that may include a jail sentence, fines, probation, and community service, among other things. Besides the legal consequences involved, a person convicted of a felony will also suffer consequences that can impact your life for years to come. A felony conviction might cause you difficulties in your ability to get employment, in your education, and even in your personal relationships.

Loss of Some Civil Rights

How Can I Be Removed From the Sex Offender Registry?

Published on: June 12, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

How Can I Be Removed From the Sex Offender Registry?

After conviction on sex crime offenses, a person must follow the legal requirements that apply. A convicted sex offender must not reside within 1,000 feet of a school or daycare facility. A convicted sex offender is not allowed to provide instruction, supervision, or care for children. In addition, a person convicted of sex offenses generally must register as a sex offender. Registration as a sex offender may have a devastating impact on your life, and you may wonder whether you are eligible to get your name removed from the sex offender registry.

Sex Offender Registry

Is it Legal to Possess Marijuana in North Carolina?

Published on: June 5, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Is it Legal to Possess Marijuana in North Carolina?

Marijuana has been considered an illegal drug for years. Possessing, selling, or distributing marijuana is a criminal offense, and if convicted, you could face a sentence that might include fines, community service, confinement, and more. Many states have loosened the laws regarding marijuana, and in some states, the recreational use of marijuana is no longer illegal. In North Carolina, you could still be charged with possession of an illegal drug if you are found with marijuana.

What are the Marijuana Laws in North Carolina?

Defending Theft Charges in North Carolina

Published on: May 29, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Defending Theft Charges in North Carolina

Theft is one of the most common crime charges in North Carolina. Theft is often called larceny. There are a variety of different theft crimes and they could be misdemeanors or felonies. Regardless of whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, you could face serious consequences if convicted. A conviction may make it difficult to obtain employment and find housing. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney will help defend the charges and protect your rights.

Types of Larceny Crimes

Fleeing and Eluding Charges in North Carolina

Published on: May 22, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Fleeing and Eluding Charges in North Carolina

When police lights and sirens are behind you, signaling you to pull over, North Carolina law requires you to stop. You must pull to the side of the road and bring your vehicle to a full stop. Regardless of whether you agree with the traffic stop or not, you must still follow the law. If you fail to stop, the police will believe that you are fleeing and eluding. You will likely face charges of fleeing and eluding along with any other charges that might arise from the traffic stop.

What is Fleeing and Eluding?

Can I Travel on an Airplane With a Firearm?

Published on: May 15, 2024 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Can I Travel on an Airplane With a Firearm?

Many citizens in North Carolina own at least one firearm. According to a report, about 46% of households in North Carolina had at least one gun. The number could be even higher. Often, people keep firearms for protection or for hunting. If you plan to travel, you may want to bring your firearm along with you. It is important to know the laws that apply to bringing firearms and other weapons to the airport and how to pack them properly for legal travel.

Can I Carry a Firearm at the Airport?