The Christmas holiday brings out the best in everyone, doesn’t it? It is a time for friends, family, and neighbors to come together in joyous celebration. A time that allows the whole nation to reflect on the past and look forward to the future. In many respects, it does feel like the most wonderful time of the year. Unless of course you find yourself involved in Black Friday brawl or a holiday function gone bad. Then you may be wondering – what is the best way for me to avoid ending up in jail in 2016?
The truth is, the holidays are a stressful time for everyone. No one gets away clean. Family gatherings quickly spiral out of control, office gatherings descend into booze-fueled rants, and mall parking lots boil over into full-on boxing rings. Who hasn’t wanted to knock some sense into their fellow man during this season of giving? It comes with the territory; if you are shopping, celebrating, or driving from one house to another, there is a chance you could encounter a potentially aggressive reveler. The key to keeping yourself free from charges in the New Year depends on your sense of composure.
Simply put – if you take a swing at another person, throw a bottle at anyone, or even attempt to push someone, you could be facing assault charges.
Keep in mind that in the State of California, assault and battery are two different things; assault is any willful attempt to hurt or injure someone with force. Battery is the actual contact or damage done. So, if you decide you’ve had enough of the guy tailgating you, remember – just attempting to hurt someone is enough to ruin your holidays with an assault charge.
Before you decide to close your fist this holiday season, try opening your heart first. At least you’ll stay off the sheriff’s naughty list.
But should you find yourself in trouble, contact the criminal defense team at the Law Office of Michael L. Guisti. We can help.
You can reach us at (888) 478-8999.
