jury trial

What is My Right to a Speedy Trial?

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

What is My Right to a Speedy Trial?

You have probably heard that defendants have the right to a speedy trial, but you may be unsure what it means. The Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees all citizens the right to a speedy trial. This means that a person who is charged with a federal crime must go to trial no later than 70 days after indictment. The law ensures that you are treated fairly and are not held too long before you get a trial.

How Do I Invoke My Right to a Speedy Trial?

Do I Have the Right to a Trial?

Published on: August 31, 2022 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

Charlotte DWI Lawyer Brad Smith answers the question: “If I simply intend to plead guilty, why do I need a lawyer?”

American citizens are afforded many rights. The United States Constitution Bill of Rights provides us with some fundamental rights. We have the right to bear arms, we have the right to free speech, and many others. Part of our unique judicial system is the right to a fair trial. When you are charged with a crime, you are presumed innocent unless and until you are found guilty in a court of law. If you have been arrested for a crime, you need to understand your rights, including the request for a trial, to determine the outcome of your case. An experienced criminal defense attorney will help guide your case, protect your rights, and assist you in defending the charges.

China Gives Plea Bargaining A Try

Published on: September 6, 2016 | On behalf of Arnold & Smith, PLLC

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

Anyone who’s even remotely familiar with the criminal justice system or, for that matter, television shows revolving around the criminal justice system, has likely heard of plea-bargaining. Plea bargains are deals reached between defendants and prosecutors, which allow both sides to avoid the uncertainty of trial. Though plea bargains are incredibly common in the United States, they aren’t so common everywhere. Up until now, China’s criminal justice system has never allowed the use of a plea bargain, something that’s poised to change as of September 4^th. To learn more about the recent changes in Chinese criminal law, keep reading.