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Siete Ways to Avoid a Cinco de Mayo Arrest

By Brett Snider, Esq. on May 02, 2014 | Last updated on March 21, 2019

Police are preparing to arrest Cinco de Mayo lawbreakers, and many are planning patrols and checkpoints to nab felonious fiesta-goers.

Luckily (or shall we say, afortunademente), there are many ways to avoid a Cinco de Mayo-related arrest. Here are siete (seven) legal tips you'll want to keep in mind:

1. Be Aware of DUI Checkpoints.

Yes, DUI checkpoints are generally legal. And while you are going through one, you should really mind your p's and q's. Keep in mind, however, that most police departments will advertise where and when these checkpoints will occur, in an attempt to dissuade Cinco de Mayo partiers from drinking and driving.

The Arizona Republic reports that police patrols will begin as early as four days before the holiday.

2. If in Mexico, Respect Mexican Law.

Deciding to jet off to Los Cabos for sushi and tequila on the beach? As you brag about this to your friends on Facebook, remember that public drinking and drug use are surefire ways to get arrested south of the border.

3. Curb Your Herb in Public.

Remember that even in Colorado and Washington state, it's illegal to smoke weed in public. Even if you have a medical license to smoke in another state, adding mota to your fiesta is likely no bueno.

4. Don't Urinate in Public.

Crowded bars and copious amounts of margarita mix are a recipe for busy bathrooms, but don't be tempted to take a whiz en la calle. Public urination is illegal and it may even lead to an indecent exposure charge.

5. Don't Drink and Drive! Have a Designated Driver.

Planning to be borracho on Cinco? Make sure you have a trustworthy designated driver or all you'll hear is "pobrecito!"

6. Alternatively, Get a Free, Safe Ride Home.

Local AAA clubs offer free "safe rides" to members and non-members on Cinco de Mayo and other holidays in certain areas. Avoid taking home handcuffs as a Cinco party favor by utilizing this service and others.

7. Avoid Bar Fights.

Like its Irish drinking cousin St. Patrick's Day, drunken revelers on Cinco de Mayo may get a little loco as the holiday wears on. While bar fights are great fun in movies, getting arrested for a bar fight is not. Assault charges are also a terrible companion to a Cinco de Mayo hangover.

Celebrate Mexican heritage without losing your freedom. Be safe and don't get arrested this Cinco de Mayo -- though if you do run into trouble, an experienced abogado (lawyer) is just a click away.

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