The holidays are a time for family, friends, and celebrations— a special moment each year when many return to childhood homes and see loved ones we’ve missed. For college students here in Wilmington, winter break often means heading back to other parts of North Carolina to reconnect and relax after a long semester. But as the season kicks into high gear, it’s also a time when students find themselves in legal trouble. The Gross Law Group is here to help you avoid common pitfalls and enjoy a safe, stress-free holiday break. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Plan Ahead to Avoid Drinking and Driving

Holiday parties often include alcohol, and it can be tempting to celebrate with a drink or two. However, North Carolina has strict DUI laws, with severe penalties that can follow you for years. Here’s how to stay safe:

• Designate a Driver: Before heading to any gathering, decide who will be the sober driver for the night.
• Use Ride-Sharing Apps: Apps like Uber and Lyft are a great alternative when plans change or rides fall through.
• Know the Consequences: In North Carolina, being charged with a DUI can result in license suspension, hefty fines, and even jail time. For drivers under 21, a BAC (blood alcohol concentration) of just 0.01% leads to a host of criminal charges.

2. Think Twice Before Hosting a Party

If you’re hosting friends over the holidays, remember that North Carolina’s social host liability laws mean you could be held responsible if someone leaves your party intoxicated and causes harm. To avoid this:

• Don’t Serve Minors: Providing alcohol to anyone under 21 is illegal and can lead to criminal charges.
• Monitor Alcohol Consumption: Make sure no one at your gathering becomes dangerously intoxicated.
• Offer Alternatives: Provide plenty of non-alcoholic drink options and encourage safe transportation.

3. Be Cautious During Holiday Travel

Many students drive long distances to come home for the holidays. Law enforcement agencies often increase patrols during this time, looking for speeding, reckless driving, and DUIs. Stay on the right side of the law by:

• Obeying Speed Limits: Speeding is one of the top reasons drivers get pulled over. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination.
• Avoiding Distracted Driving: Put your phone down, even if it’s tempting to check texts or turn on a playlist.
• Understanding North Carolina’s Open Container Laws: Having an open container of alcohol in the car is illegal, even if the driver is sober.

4. Know Your Rights

If you’re stopped by law enforcement or find yourself in a tricky situation, knowing your rights can make a big difference:

• Stay Polite but Firm: Always be respectful, but don’t feel pressured to answer incriminating questions without an attorney present.
• Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: If you’re being questioned, politely decline to answer until you’ve spoken to a lawyer.
• Contact the Gross Law Group: If you’re facing legal trouble, we’re here to help. Call us immediately to discuss your case and your options.

A Safe Holiday Season Starts with Smart Choices

Winter break should be a time to relax and recharge, not deal with legal trouble. By staying aware of the laws and making responsible decisions, you can avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy your time at home. If you or someone you know does run into legal issues during the holidays, the Gross Law Group is here to help. Our experienced team understands the unique challenges students face and will fight to protect your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.