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Originally Posted On: https://stevenellmanlaw.com/blog/top-12-mistakes-drunk-people-often-regret-in-new-jersey/
Top 12 Mistakes Drunk People Often Regret in New Jersey
Wondering what mistakes drunk people typically make? Find out the top common blunders and how to avoid them. Click to learn more!
Alcohol has been an amazing way to celebrate for thousands of years. When used in moderation, it can enhance the occasion and bring people together.
However, it can also lead to irresponsible and reckless behavior. There are countless mistakes drunk people make while out on the town in New Jersey, and it’s crucial to avoid these at all costs. In the guide below, we’ll explore twelve of the most notable and how you can take action if you get arrested.
1. Getting Behind the Wheel
Driving under the influence is one of the most dangerous mistakes. It can lead to severe legal consequences, accidents, and even fatalities.
DUI incidents often result in significant fines, license suspension, or jail time. Always have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service to avoid these serious repercussions.
2. Starting Fights
Alcohol can lower inhibitions and increase aggression. Drunk individuals often get into unnecessary altercations, leading to injuries and legal trouble.
Physical confrontations can result in assault charges and severe penalties. It’s best to walk away from conflicts when drinking to avoid such dangerous situations.
3. Oversharing on Social Media
Many people regret posting personal or embarrassing content online while intoxicated. These posts can damage reputations and have long-term consequences.
Employers and family members might view this content, causing further embarrassment. Avoid using social media when drinking to prevent these potential pitfalls.
4. Making Impulse Purchases
Drunk shopping can lead to unnecessary expenses and buyer’s remorse. People often buy items they don’t need or can’t afford while under the influence.
This behavior can strain finances and create regretful situations. It’s wise to keep credit cards and phones out of reach when drinking to avoid impulse purchases.
5. Engaging in Unprotected Sex
Alcohol impairs judgment and can lead to risky sexual behavior. This can result in unwanted pregnancies or sexually transmitted infections, posing serious health risks.
The emotional and physical consequences of such actions can be long-lasting, as well. Always prioritize safety and consent to mitigate these risks.
6. Losing Personal Belongings
It’s common to misplace or lose items like wallets, phones, and keys while drunk. Such losses can be inconvenient and costly, often requiring time and money to replace lost items.
To prevent this, keep personal belongings secure and check for them regularly. Being mindful of your possessions can save you from these common drinking blunders.
7. Texting or Calling Exes
Contacting ex-partners under the influence often leads to regretful conversations and rekindled emotions. This can result in emotional distress and strained relationships.
It’s best to avoid using your phone for personal matters while drinking to prevent these awkward situations. Put your phone away if you feel the urge to contact people you shouldn’t.
8. General Law Breaking
Drunk individuals may engage in vandalism, trespassing, or other illegal activities. Such actions have serious legal consequences, including fines and potential jail time.
Breaking the law can have long-term repercussions on your record. Stay within the law and avoid risky behavior to prevent these alcohol-related pitfalls.
9. Neglecting Safety Precautions
Ignoring safety measures, like crossing streets without looking or swimming while intoxicated, can lead to accidents. These mishaps can cause serious injuries or even fatalities. Always remain aware of your surroundings and prioritize safety when drinking to avoid such dangerous situations.
10. Missing Work or Important Events
Drinking heavily can result in oversleeping or being too hungover to attend work or important events. This can negatively impact your professional reputation and personal commitments. Plan your drinking to avoid conflicts with your schedule and ensure you remain responsible.
11. Overindulging
Excessive drinking leads to severe hangovers, blackouts, and health issues.
Pace yourself and know your limits to avoid overindulgence.
Moderation is key to enjoying alcohol responsibly and safely. If you find it difficult to control yourself, avoid drinking altogether.
12. Damaging Relationships
Alcohol can cause people to say or do things they regret, harming friendships and family bonds. Hurtful words and actions can create lasting damage in relationships.
Communicate openly and apologize if necessary to repair any damage caused. Being mindful of your behavior when drinking helps maintain healthy relationships.
What to Do if You’re Arrested
Getting arrested after making a drunken mistake in New Jersey can be overwhelming at first. The process is easier to navigate than it might seem, though. Listed below are the key tips to consider.
Stay Calm
When facing an arrest due to drinking errors, the first step is to stay calm. Panicking can escalate the situation and lead to further complications.
Take deep breaths and try to focus on the instructions given by the police officers. Remaining composed will help you think more clearly and handle the situation better.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
One of the most crucial steps to take after being arrested for alcohol mistakes is to exercise your right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it’s best to avoid making statements until you have legal representation.
Politely inform the officers that you wish to remain silent until you have an attorney present. This can prevent any drunk mishaps from being used against you later.
Request an Attorney
After being detained, it’s important to request an attorney immediately. Having legal representation is essential to navigating the complexities of the legal system.
An experienced attorney can help mitigate the impact of your common drinking blunders. They will provide guidance and support throughout the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected.
Avoid Resisting Arrest
Resisting arrest is a serious offense and can result in additional charges. Even if you feel the arrest is unjust, it’s important to comply with the officers’ instructions.
Resisting can lead to unnecessary physical confrontations and further alcohol-related pitfalls. Following the officers’ directions calmly can help prevent escalating the situation.
Document the Incident
As soon as you can, write down everything you remember about the arrest. Include details about the events leading up to it, the behavior of the officers, and any statements made.
This documentation can be crucial for your attorney when building your defense. Accurate records help address any potential drunk mishaps that occurred during the incident.
Understand the Charges Against You
It’s vital to understand the charges being brought against you following an arrest. These charges could range from public intoxication to DUI, depending on the circumstances.
Knowing the specifics will help your attorney develop an effective defense strategy. Understanding your charges also helps you prepare for legal proceedings.
Finding the Right Attorney
It’s crucial to find the right lawyer when defending against allegations. Otherwise, you risk the situation becoming even more complicated. Let’s take a closer look.
Assess Your Legal Needs
Begin by assessing your specific legal needs to find the right attorney. Determine the nature of the charges against you, such as DUI or public intoxication.
Knowing your needs helps you search for attorneys who specialize in handling similar cases. This ensures that your legal representation is well-equipped to address your situation.
Make a Shortlist
Conduct thorough research on potential attorneys to handle your case. Look for professionals with a proven track record in defending clients against alcohol-related pitfalls.
Check their websites, read reviews, and gather as much information as possible. This research helps you shortlist attorneys with the expertise required for your case.
Check Credentials and Experience
Verify the credentials and experience of the attorneys you are considering. Ensure they are licensed to practice law in your state and have experience with cases involving common drinking blunders.
Experienced attorneys are more likely to provide effective representation. Their familiarity with local laws and court systems can be advantageous to your case.
Read Client Reviews
Researching client reviews can provide valuable insights into an attorney’s performance and client satisfaction. Look for reviews that highlight how the attorney handled cases involving drinking errors.
Positive feedback from past clients can give you confidence in your choice. Keep in mind that you might encounter fake reviews while searching.
Schedule a Consultation
Once you have narrowed down your options, schedule consultations with the attorneys. Use this opportunity to discuss your case and gauge their expertise in dealing with alcohol mistakes.
Ask about their approach to handling cases similar to yours and their success rates. This meeting helps you determine if the attorney is a good fit for your needs.
Discuss Fees and Payment Plans
Before making a final decision, discuss the attorney’s fees and payment plans. Legal representation can be expensive, so it’s crucial to understand the costs involved.
Inquire about their billing practices and whether they offer payment plans. This ensures that you can afford the legal services without facing financial stress.
Avoid These Mistakes Drunk People Make
The tips in this guide will help you avoid the common mistakes drunk people make in New Jersey. If you’re arrested, be sure to find the right attorney for your needs. This allows you to overcome the issues you face.
With 39 years of legal experience, Steven Ellman specializes in DUI/DWI defense across New Jersey. He has an 80%+ success rate in getting clients’ charges dismissed and is ranked in the Top 10 for having charges dropped.
You can trust him to vigorously defend your rights and secure the outcome you need. You’ll learn more about how he can help when you get in touch with him today.
