Spending Christmas or New Year Eve in jail is probably one of the worst things that could happen to you during the holidays.
Not only is it a terrifying experience to be handcuffed and arrested, but it’s also traumatizing and unsettling to be away from your family at the time when you’re supposed to be close to them.
Even though it may seem as if the holiday season is the most family-friendly and innocent time of year, it’s simply not true. Ask any police department across the U.S., between mid-December and early January, there is a sharp increase in arrests across our country.
Fact: in this period, DUI arrests alone account for over 2,000 arrests across the U.S. (that’s roughly over 140 DUI arrests every day; or nearly 6 arrests every hour).
But driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol is not the only reason that can land you in jail during the holidays. False arrests, domestic violence, theft, disorderly conduct in public places are just as common during Christmas and New Year celebrations in Los Angeles and across the nation.
Let’s say the worst scenario happens: you get arrested. What should you do after an arrest to get out as soon as possible and be able to spend the holidays with your family (and not spoil anyone’s holiday mood in the process)?
This is the question our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys here at Okabe & Haushalter are prepared to answer today.
But before we get started, it’s important to understand what an arrest during the holidays really means in the U.S. If you get arrested in Los Angeles or elsewhere in California, you may be held in jail for up to three business days before your first appearance in front of a judge.
Not to mention that weekends and holidays (Christmas and New Year’s Eve) do not normally count as business days. Also, you’d be required to make multiple appearances in court before released from custody.
Being away from your loved ones for so long during the holiday season can be an unbearable experience. Fortunately, you’re permitted to make a call to your attorney while in custody.
Reaching out to our criminal defense lawyers here at Okabe & Haushalter is your best decision to get out of jail ASAP. Dial our number: 310-430-7799 (we work 24/7 even during weekends and holidays).
Depending on the circumstances of your arrest, you need to understand your rights as a U.S. citizen. Let our attorneys spell out your civil rights for you in a free initial consultation, and offer you the best line of defense to avoid getting charged.
This applies to you whether you’ve been arrested for a misdemeanor or a felony. Here’s a handy guide of what to do if you get arrested during the holidays:
Remain silent. You probably know this from Hollywood movies, and yet so many people can’t keep their mouths shut during an arrest. Everything you say during an arrest will be used against you in court. In fact, it’s highly advised to not answer any questions during an arrest before consulting a criminal defense attorney.
Don’t resist arrest. This may only complicate matters and reduce your chances of speedy release from jail.
Contact a criminal defense lawyer. You have a right to make a call to your attorney during an arrest. Here at Okabe & Haushalter, our lawyers are available 24/7 to take your calls.
Cooperate with our attorney. Tell our lawyers what happened and let us work out a viable plan of how to get you out of jail with a strong defense as soon as possible. Our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys will explore all legal options to keep you out of jail and help you avoid getting charged with a misdemeanor or felony.
Call our lawyers at 310-430-7799 or fill out this contact form to get a free initial consultation.