Many people see Spring Break as a means to unwind and recover from stressful academic and work routines. The warmer climate in Florida also provides a moment of reprieve from the colder weather in other states. However, some tend to get rowdy during their breaks, leading them to commit crimes and misdemeanors.
If an officer arrests you or even starts to talk to you, it is important to remain silent. Explaining your side or justifying your actions can provide the state with incriminating evidence that can worsen your case. Florida also requires a First Appearance hearing, meaning you must be brought to a judicial officer within 24 hours of your arrest to set the bond.
Common “tourist” offenses during Spring Break
Due to the high levels of alcohol consumption and party-focused atmosphere, it is not unusual for people to celebrate recklessly. Some of the most common tourist offenses include:
- Underage drinking
- Disorderly conduct, such as fighting or being loud and disruptive in public spaces
- Open container violations, such drinking alcohol in public areas
- Driving under the influence
- Drug possession
Bear in mind that Florida has strict penalties for controlled substances that might be legal or decriminalized in other states. Possessing less than 20 grams of marijuana without a medical marijuana card, for instance, is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Even if you possess medical marijuana cards, you must be a registered Florida medical marijuana patient to possess and use cannabis legally within the state.
Can a criminal record in Florida impact your home-state driver’s license?
Due to the Interstate Driver License Compact, any crimes you commit in Florida, particularly those related to DUI and traffic offenses, can affect your home-state driver’s license. However, the penalties for crimes such as DUI are much more severe. You may face license revocation, jail time and expensive fines.
On top of that, some convictions and DUI-related records can remain on your record for many years. DUI convictions and traffic violations in Florida are reported to your home state, where you will likely face severe consequences.
What should you do next?
A lawyer will represent you in pretrial court hearings, such as arraignments and status conferences. This way, you can avoid flying back to Florida, saving you time, effort and expenses. A lawyer also will review evidence to determine the strength of the state’s case, file motions to dismiss or suppress evidence and engage in plea negotiations or attempt to negotiate a pretrial diversion in your case.
Spring Break is a cause to celebrate, but it is essential to do so responsibly and within the bounds of the law. If you are arrested, remember your rights and contact your family or an attorney.