Music festivals are a big part of summer in California. People from all over the nation gather, and enjoy some of the best bands in America. And while it can be a lot of fun to make new friends, listen to great music, and cut up a bit, these festivals are often teeming with law enforcement officers. The police are often on edge during these times, and generally suspicious of concert goers.
If you happen to get arrested during a festival, you need to understand your rights and know what you can do to defend yourself.
Know Your Rights
If you get stopped by an officer because of suspicious activity, you do not have to say anything, you also have the right to allow an attorney to speak on your behalf. If the police officer detains you, he is required to remind you of these rights.
Here are the most common reasons for arrest at festivals:
- Disorderly conduct
- DUI or DWI
- Possession of drugs
- Alcohol related crimes
- Assault or battery crimes
Drug possession is a common offense during these festivals. If an officer stops you on suspicion of drug charges they must have probable cause in order to search your vehicle, they cannot search it just because they think you might be guilty. Likewise you cannot be arrested until there is probable cause to arrest you.
Call a Ventura criminal defense lawyer for legal protection!
When attending these events it’s crucial that you understand your rights, otherwise you could find yourself in a bad situation. Law enforcement officers will be very suspicious during these times, and will be looking for anything that might be criminal activity. If you think that your rights have been violated, you need to retain the help of an experienced legal professional.
At the Law Office of Christopher P. Welch, we stand ready to defend you. Call today, for aggressive legal assistance!
