Miami’s gorgeous beaches and vibrant nightlife have long been an alluring vacation spot. However, there’s no faster way to ruin your trip to paradise than getting arrested. If you were arrested while vacationing in Miami, you should know what steps to take next.
Why Do Tourists Get Arrested in Miami?
While you’re on vacation, you want your cares to wash away. Despite aiming to be carefree, you’ll still need to remember that many of the crimes that are illegal in your state are illegal here, too.
Depending on your charges and your criminal history, you may be facing a misdemeanor or felony. No matter how serious these charges are though, you shouldn’t wait to retain competent legal counsel to stand by your side.
Tourists are often arrested for DUI charges after they have one too many while enjoying the vibrant bar and club scene. During spring break in particular, many underage college students try to use fake IDs to get into clubs that are 21 and up or to purchase alcohol.
The other reasons tourists wind up in hot water during a Miami vacation are commonly disorderly conduct, domestic violence, aggravated assault, battery, aggravated battery, drug possession, theft, fraud, and resisting arrest.
Do You Need to Stay in Miami if You Are Arrested on Vacation?
After being arrested during your Miami vacation, you may wonder if you are permitted to go back to your home state. Most of the time, you will be allowed to return home if you can get out on bail.
There are exceptions, though, such as if a judge orders you to stay either in the county or the state before appearing in court. If your arrest was for a felony or another serious offense, you will likely be detained in Miami-Dade County Jail until you receive official charges at your court hearing.
If you are out on bail and required to remain in the area until your hearing, you may face even more trouble if you leave the state. Florida police will contact the law enforcement agencies in your state to have you sent back to Florida.
Will You Need to Appear in Court After a Miami Arrest During Your Vacation?
Depending on the crime you committed, you may need to return to Miami for court, but there is a chance you will not need to come back for this initial appearance. You should work with a Miami criminal lawyer to ensure you’re doing everything you can to avoid complicating your situation even more.
You will want to understand your charges and the potential consequences you face if you are convicted.
You may have an attorney in your home state, but it’s advised that you choose a criminal defense lawyer in Miami. They will be well-versed in state and local laws, making it easier to prepare a strong defense and safeguard your legal rights.
