Destination Vacations and Crime
Florida is a common destination for vacationers from out of state and out of the country. Although you may have spent time learning about the laws and appropriate behavior when you are visiting a new place, that doesn’t mean you won’t make mistakes. If you are facing criminal charges and you are not a Florida resident, you will need the legal counsel of an experienced, local attorney. Our Orlando tourist crime defense lawyer at The Wiseman Law Firm can help if you need legal counsel and are not a Florida resident. Our team is experienced with defense of tourists from around the world and we are prepared to help you navigate through the legal system. We understand that you may not have broken a law intentionally, or that you were unclear on limitations or customs in our area. Let us help you build a strong defense and protect your rights as a tourist.
Common Tourism Related Crimes
Because of the differences in laws between states and countries, tourist can sometimes commit crimes without even realizing it or may do something out of the ordinary that gets them into trouble because of the “vacation” mindset. Regardless of your charges, facing a judge, possible court dates, and future legal proceedings can prove difficult if you are not a Florida resident.
A few of the common crimes committed by tourists include:
- Public Intoxication: It is no surprise that vacationers often drink more than usual and can sometimes be cited for public intoxication. Not only is a vacation an escape that allows tourists to let loose, but the difference in climate, weather, and heat may also affect alcohol tolerance. You may get drunk faster due to the warm temperatures, so it is important to pay attention to the amount of alcohol and the time you spend drinking.
- Disorderly conduct or fights: Many Florida crime reports involve bouncers of night clubs or bars, in which tourists get into fights, or are charged with disorderly conduct.
- Trespassing: Not only are bouncers involved with fights or disorderly conduct charges, they also are often involved with charges of trespassing, when tourists will not leave the premises after being kicked out of a club, bar or other location.
- Theme park theft: Unfortunately, many theme parks have expensive souvenirs, as well as well-placed surveillance cameras. Theft from local theme parks is an unfortunate mistake that will result in a visit with local law enforcement.
- Traffic violations or drunk driving: Traffic violations are one of the most common tourist mistakes, which is due in part to the varying traffic laws that exist no only country but even city to city. It is best to check the local traffic laws if you know you are going to be driving in a country or state that is new, to avoid traffic tickets or arrests for traffic crimes. Drunk driving is illegal throughout the US, but in some countries the laws are more relaxed. If you are arrested for drunk driving in Orlando, you need to call our firm immediately to have the best chance at protecting your rights.
Don’t Face Charges Alone
When you are on vacation, the last thing you want to deal with is criminal charges, court dates, and high fines. If you are charged and convicted, you may be facing deportation, detainment, or even blacklisted for future US visits. You don’t want to risk conviction of criminal charges as a tourist—you need legal representation from our team. Our Orlando tourist crime defense attorney at The Wiseman Law Firm can help protect your rights when you are facing criminal charges. Let us help you navigate an often confusing and stressful legal process, so you can get back to enjoying your vacation.
Request a free consultation at 407-420-4647.