3 Tips for Staying Out of Trouble This Halloween
Halloween is a night of tricks, treats, and no shortage of mischief. While Halloween may seem like a night of fun and harmless games, things can take a turn for the worst and end up getting you in trouble if you are not careful.
The Umansky Law Firm is an award-winning criminal defense law firm in Orlando, Florida. When Halloween pranks turn into serious crimes, you may find yourself facing the consequences of your actions. To avoid unintentionally breaking the law, these three tips may help you stay out of trouble this Halloween.
Tips to Avoid Getting in Legal Trouble This Halloween
While Halloween is an excuse to dress up, get some free treats, and celebrate with friends and family, for some, Halloween is a time to let their darker sides loose. Just as children swarm the streets trick-or-treating, there may also be criminals out seeking the opportunity to commit a serious crime. Halloween tricks are all fun and games until they are riding the line of being a crime, so the following tips may help avoid a jail cell this October 31.
Do Not Damage Property When Playing a Prank On Someone
We have all seen the movie where pranksters embellish neighborhoods with toilet paper across lawns or trees, but as harmless as this prank may seem, there may be legal repercussions. Damaging another person’s property, also known as vandalism, may be grounds for legal action. Some examples of pranks that may get you into trouble are:
- Egging someone’s home
- Slashing tires of someone’s car
- Painting someone’s car with shaving cream or toothpaste
- Stealing signs or lawn ornaments from someone’s yard
- Smashing pumpkins
These common Halloween pranks can lead to serious legal consequences if the property owner presses charges. While it is inevitable that Halloween pranks will occur, you should always consider whether the prank you plan to carry out may be considered vandalism.
Obey the Curfew
Many towns will set a curfew for young people on Halloween night. These curfews are put in place to decrease the amount of mischief that occurs as the night progresses. If you are caught out past the curfew, you may find yourself in trouble with local law enforcement. It is in your best interest to head home before the curfew and enjoy a Halloween film at home, trouble-free.
Do Not Drive Under the Influence
You should never drive under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Not only is it illegal, but it is detrimental to your safety and the safety of other drivers or pedestrians who may become victims if you cause an accident. On Halloween, there are often parties or events where guests consume alcohol. If you plan to drink at a Halloween party this year, be sure to schedule a ride with a taxi, rideshare company, or a designated sober driver.
Orlando Criminal Defense Attorneys Are Here to Help
Sometimes, Halloween pranks may get out of hand. If you are facing legal repercussions for something you did on October 31, things may seem spooky, but they are not hopeless.
The Umansky Law Firm believes everyone deserves a second chance. That is why our award-winning legal team provides our clients with the unique and dedicated representation they deserve. Schedule a free case review here or call our office today.
