It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but if you’re not careful, the holiday season can present you with a higher risk of ending up behind bars, which can quickly turn that holiday cheer into a nightmare. Here are some of the most common reasons people find themselves in trouble with the law around the holiday season, and some tips to avoid it if possible.
DUI
With all the parties this time of year-from your family get-togethers to parties with your friends and co-workers, there are plenty of opportunities for imbibing. Consuming alcohol at these events can help you enjoy the night, but consuming too much and making the mistake of getting behind the wheel can land you in jail after the festivities are over. Not only is that embarrassing, but it could put you at risk of other consequences, like losing your job, which is not something anyone wants around the holiday season.
Avoid driving under the influence at all costs by designating a driver at the beginning of the night, getting a ride from a friend or family member, or calling for a cab or rideshare at the end of the night. Even if it costs you money, it’s a lot less expensive than a DUI arrest.
Theft
There’s a lot of pressure around this time year to get the latest and greatest gifts for everyone on your list. If you can’t afford to pay for those gifts, you may be tempted to steal them from local retail stores or even from the front porch of your neighbors to make sure your kids get the best possible Christmas. The problem is that if you get caught, not only will you not be able to give that gift, you’ll have to call someone to bail you out or spend the holidays behind bars.
Domestic Violence
It’s supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but the truth is that many people actually feel like the holiday season is the most stressful time of the year. It’s also the time of year that police departments get the highest number of calls for domestic violence, which is no way to celebrate the season for you and your family.
If you have been charged with one of these common holiday crimes (or any other crime that didn’t make the list), you deserve an attorney who can offer you the best representation to avoid jail time, permanent charges on your record, and expensive fines and other repercussions that can come with being charged with a crime. No matter what kind of trouble you are in, contact the law office of Brad R. Anderson today to find out how we can help defend you in the criminal justice system.