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Blogs from April, 2024

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It's Not Us, It's You - Florida's Stance on Spring Break This Year

For many people across the country (if not the world), Spring Break is synonymous with Florida. The packed beaches, cities flooded with tourists, and raucous partying have only increased in recent years. With 1,800 miles of coastline, nearly every coastal community in Florida, from Fort Lauderdale to Key West, is affected by Spring Break revelry.

What once began as one week has become a months-long party, sometimes starting as early as February. This has created what some cities see as an untenable situation, leading to a crackdown on Spring Break.

Millions of tourists descend upon Florida during the Spring Break period every year. With extensive alcohol consumption and drug use becoming significant issues, many coastal cities and communities' law enforcement agencies have asked for State assistance in managing the situation.

Miami Beach Sets the Tone

In response to the increasing concerns over safety and public order during Spring Break, Miami Beach has launched an assertive initiative, "Miami Beach is Breaking Up with Spring Break." This campaign represents the city's firm resolution to deter criminal activity and unruly conduct that have marred the festive season in the past.

Spearheaded by city officials, including Melissa Berthier, the strategy encompasses a series of stringent actions:

  • Curfews
  • Limiting beach access
  • Conducting bag inspections
  • Shutting down specific parking facilities
  • Establishing DUI checkpoints
  • Using license plate reading technology
  • Intensifying police patrols

These measures specifically target alcohol consumption in public spaces, drug offenses, and violent incidents, underlying Miami Beach's commitment to ensuring a safer and more orderly environment for both residents and visitors.

What to Do If You're Arrested During Spring Break in Florida

Spring Break in Florida is a time of fun and relaxation for many. However, the stringent measures taken by cities like Miami Beach can lead to unforeseen legal complications and long-term consequences, especially related to drug crime and DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charges.

Common Spring Break-related charges include:

  • Public intoxication
  • Underage drinking
  • Possession of controlled substances
  • DUI
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Disturbing the peace
  • Littering
  • Trespassing
  • Vandalism

If you face arrest, acting quickly is crucial, especially if you are from out-of-state and unfamiliar with Florida's laws. At Mazin Law, our defense attorney is a former public defender with extensive criminal defense experience, and we are available 24/7 to support and guide our clients, no matter what charges they face.

If you are arrested, you are encouraged to follow these three steps:

  1. Stay calm and cooperate: Avoid resisting arrest or arguing with law enforcement, which can lead to additional charges.
  2. Exercise your right to remain silent: You have the right not to incriminate yourself. Politely decline to answer any questions without an attorney present.
  3. Contact our law firm immediately: Reach out to us at any hour. Our experienced attorney can handle any criminal case, including felony charges.

Our attorney is deeply familiar with the Florida legal system, and Mazin Law is ready to help you protect your rights and be your advocate in court. When you need help, we are just a phone call away.

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