As defense attorneys who have practiced for 30 years in the Cincinnati area, we see certain trends in criminal activity. Certain factors lead to people that wouldn’t usually break the law ending up in legal trouble. Unfortunately, one of the things that creates more illegal situation is the Holiday Season. While we would be happy to see you in our offices if you need us, it is best to stay out of trouble and out of the courtroom in the new year. Here are just a few things to think about while staying safe during the holidays.
DUI/OVI
If you go to one or more Christmas parties away from your home, there may be more of a temptation to drink and drive than other times of year. This, of course, does NOT alleviate you of the legal responsibility to be safe on the roads. Not to mention that in 2024, winter weather seems to have already come in Ohio. Some years the summer and fall weather lasts a lot longer. Of course that could change, with the sporadic weather in this area. Either way, driving under the influence is still illegal and taken very seriously by the authorities.
Juvenile Court Cases
For Ohio citizens under the age of 18, there may be extra opportunities for illegal activities while school is out. To some extent, these juveniles face the same type of situations as adults. Juveniles over the age of 16 can legally have a driver’s license, which comes with the same responsibilities that adults have. While people under the age of 21 cannot legally consume alcohol, they might have more opportunities to do so without being noticed over the holidays. Just like with people of legal drinking age, operating a vehicle under the influence comes with legal repercussions. Even if they don’t get behind the wheel, juveniles can face underage drinking charges. Not to mention the temptations for things like substance abuse and petty crimes & misdemeanors can be heightened over the holidays.
Domestic Cases
With family members getting together more often and for longer than normal, certain issues can arise. Obviously, committing acts of domestic violence will always get you in trouble with the law. But Domestic Violence is not always a husband physically threatening or assaulting his wife. Many domestic disputes that turn physical end up in court. Many times a concerned family member calls the police to sort of deescalate the situation, but not wanting anyone to get arrested. If the police respond to a domestic violence call, it is not uncommon that they make an arrest. We address this in our article, “Are Ohio Police Required to Make an Arrest for Every Domestic Violence Call?“
Conclusion
There are many aspects that go into staying safe during the holidays. The legal aspect is just one of them. If you do run into trouble in that area, feel free to contact Dearie, Fischer & Martinson.
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