Partying At Warm Weather Events Can Spur Legal Trouble
Crowd-pleasing summertime get-togethers are a hotbed of police activity. Learn how to avoid run-ins with the law, and where you can turn for legal help.

July 31, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- As the summer festival season gets into full swing, more New Yorkers are heading outdoors to take advantage of the warm weather and plentiful entertainment opportunities. But, stepped-up law enforcement efforts can spell trouble for revelers.

Phish Concert Arrests

In early June, the popular rock band Phish held a concert at the Darien Lake Performing Arts Center in New York. Police were prepared for the 20,000 fans who showed up to watch the performance, and heavy patrols resulted in New York driving while intoxicated ("DWI") charges for a number of concertgoers.

Common Alcohol-Related Offenses

The Phish show is a typical example of the consequences that can follow excessive drinking at summer events. While there is no state law in New York specifically prohibiting public intoxication, several related charges often stem from impairment at outdoor events.

Disorderly conduct is a charge that may be levied in a wide variety of circumstances. Intending to cause public annoyance or alarm, making threats, or displaying inappropriate gestures can all result in disorderly conduct citations, ultimately punishable by a hefty fine and/or two weeks in jail. Disorderly conduct is often used as a justification to get intoxicated individuals who may be a danger to themselves or others off the streets. Similarly, being under the influence of a controlled substance and causing damage to property is illegal.

Finally, DWI arrests proliferate at summer festivals. Anyone driving in a public area while impaired by alcoholic beverages or any other intoxicant is at risk for arrest under New York's drunk driving laws.

Protect Yourself From Disorderly Conduct and Drunk Driving Charges

The best way to stay out of trouble is to plan responsibly for summer outings. If you are going to drink at an event, bring a designated driver, arrange for a sober acquaintance to pick you up, or hire a taxi.

DWI is a serious charge in New York. Having fun is what seasonal concerts and other gatherings are all about. But, acting sensibly and planning ahead can save you a great deal of hardship down the road.

If you were caught driving drunk or under the influence of drugs after a concert, a New York DWI defense attorney can help you evaluate your situation and figure out what steps to take next.

Contact a local criminal defense attorney today to find out how you can get the most favorable treatment in court.

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