Thanksgiving is just hours away. People across the country will be gathering with family and friends to celebrate everything that they are thankful for in their lives. During that celebration, some people might have a drink and then drive to a relative's house or drive home. Even if it is just one drink, some people might still find themselves spending Thanksgiving night behind bars.
Authorities in New Jersey are encouraging drivers to report people they suspect are drunk drivers. While this might help discourage people from drunk driving, it could also lead to arrests of innocent people. Police often rigorously enforce drunk driving laws around holidays. They might arrest people for drunk driving after conducting tests that don't truly test if a person is capable of driving a vehicle.
People who are arrested could face embarrassment as well as damage to their personal and professional reputations. They might also face consequences with their license if they are convicted. That is why people who are arrested for drunk driving in New Jersey might be wise to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney. A misguided arrest shouldn't mean an innocent person has to spend their Thanksgiving in jail.
While this is a time to give thanks, it is also an important time to understand your rights. A rigorous criminal defense can help people who are arrested clear their name of wrongdoing and protect their reputation.
Source: NJTODAY.net, "Officials Urge Travelers To Be Safe This Thanksgiving," Nov. 20, 2012
-Our New Jersey criminal defense firm handles drunk driving cases. Please visit our website to learn more.