Independence Day should be about fireworks, cookouts, and time with family—not spending the night in jail or scrambling to make bail. Every year, law enforcement ramps up efforts around the Fourth of July, and unfortunately, many people end the holiday with criminal charges that could’ve easily been avoided. Every year we're contacted by new and returning clients whose July 4th holiday was ruined by their or a family member's arrest.
Here’s how you can enjoy your freedom this July 4th—by keeping it.
1. Don’t Drink and Drive
DUI arrests spike around July 4th due to increased alcohol consumption and heavy traffic. South Carolina law enforcement runs targeted DUI enforcement over the holiday, including checkpoints and extra patrols. Even if you think you’re “okay to drive,” alcohol can impair your judgment more than you realize. Call a rideshare, stay put, or designate a sober driver. A DUI conviction can cost you thousands in fines, license suspension, and even jail time—not to mention the danger it poses to others on the road. Avoid having to hire a Lexington SC DUI Lawyer by following this simple advice.
2. Don’t Talk to Law Enforcement Without a Lawyer
If you're under investigation—or even if law enforcement just wants to “ask a few questions”—exercise your right to remain silent. Making statements without legal advice is one of the most common ways people unintentionally incriminate themselves. You have the right to an attorney. Use it. Politely decline to answer questions until you’ve spoken to legal counsel.
3. Don’t Skip Court Dates
Got an open case? Check your court date and don’t assume the court will remind you. Failing to appear—even for something you think is minor—can lead to a bench warrant, meaning you could be arrested on the spot. That’s not exactly how anyone wants to spend a holiday weekend. If you’re unsure about your next court appearance, contact your attorney or check with the clerk of court.
4. Avoid Disorderly Conduct or Public Intoxication
Holiday celebrations often involve alcohol, but don’t let things get out of hand. Yelling in the street, starting fights, or being visibly drunk in public can quickly turn into a charge for disorderly conduct or public intoxication. Police have little tolerance for disruptive behavior during major holidays, and what seems like harmless fun to you could be viewed very differently by an officer.
5. Avoid a Domestic Violence arrest
Holidays always see a spike in domestic violence arrests. Time off from work + more time a partner + alcohol seems to be the responsible combination. Lexington Count's former domestic violence prosecutor used to talk about reviewing cases over the holidays to see if someone could keep it together. Our advice? If you're involved in a heated argument, just deescalate. Provide some breathing room. Don't argue if you or your partner has been drinking. You don't want to have to spend the upcoming weekend in the Lexington County Detention Center charged with DV 2nd or DV 3rd.
6. Keep an Eye on Your Teenagers
Juvenile arrests also increase during the summer. This includes underage drinking, curfew violations, and even possession of marijuana. If you're a parent, set clear rules and know where your kids are. A juvenile conviction can follow a young person for years.
7. If You’re in Trouble—Call a Lawyer Immediately
Don’t try to “talk your way out of it.” If you’re being arrested or questioned, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The earlier you have legal representation, the more options you may have to resolve your case.
Freedom Is Worth Protecting
At the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, we hope you and your family enjoy a safe and fun Independence Day. But if your holiday takes a turn and you find yourself facing criminal charges, we’re here to help. Call our office at (803) 359-3301 to schedule a free consultation. We represent people charged in and around Lexington and Columbia SC with criminal charges.
Happy Fourth—and stay free.