The Saltair is known for its lively concerts and energetic atmosphere; where people can let loose and enjoy themselves. Unfortunately, fun can quickly turn into trouble. Consequentially, many people find themselves in trouble with law enforcement, either due to their involvement in unlawful activity or even due to a simple misunderstanding with police.
If you have been arrested at Saltair in Magna, Utah, it is important to seek legal assistance from an experienced defense attorney to protect your rights. At Conyers & Nix, we fearlessly represent individuals who have been charged with a crime in Utah. We diligently fight for our clients’ rights until we secure victory. To learn more about how we can help, contact our Salt Lake City office at 801-839-4649 today.
What Are the Typical Crimes that Happen at Saltair?
Situated on the southern shore of the Great Salt Lake, the Saltair is an iconic venue for concerts. Attendance at these events can exceed 4,000 individuals. With alcohol and drugs in the mix, it is not uncommon for a night of fun to end in a night of distress.
For this reason, the events at Saltair are heavily policed. Some of the typical crimes that happen at Saltair include:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Drug possession
- Disorderly conduct
- Open container violations
- Fights, assault, or use of a deadly weapon
- Lewdness and indecent exposure
Many times, arrests occur as a result of a misunderstanding with law enforcement or because overzealous police are looking to make an example out of certain people. Whatever the reason, if you were arrested at Saltair, it is important to protect your rights and ensure that your charges are properly handled both in and out of court.
What Should You Do If You Are Arrested at Saltair?
If you are arrested at Saltair, it is important to understand your rights and the next steps to take to mitigate the consequences of the arrest.
In Utah, you can be arrested if an officer sees you committing or attempting to commit a crime, or if they have reasonable cause to believe that you engaged in illegal activity (Utah Code § 77-7-2). If you are arrested, do not resist the arrest. Resisting your arrest or fighting with police will make matters worse and add more charges to your case, even if you are innocent. Be polite and courteous during the encounter and avoid the temptation to explain yourself in the heat of the moment.
When you are arrested, you have the right to remain silent. It is advised that you wait to speak with your attorney to avoid incriminating yourself further. While you may believe that explaining the situation will help, whatever you say can and will be used against you in the future. Consider consulting an attorney as soon as possible after the arrest, as they will provide you with the necessary guidance during the process and ensure that you do not make any costly mistakes.
What Happens If Your Rights Were Violated During the Arrest?
In some situations, overzealous police officers may overstep their boundaries, resulting in a violation of rights. Perhaps they arrested you unlawfully, failed to make you aware of your rights, or coerced a statement out of you. A violation of your rights does not necessarily mean that your case will be dismissed, but it may provide your attorney with the leverage necessary to have evidence deemed inadmissible. This can help you achieve a favorable outcome for your case.
Why Should You Hire an Attorney to Help You If You Are Arrested at Saltair?
If you were arrested at Saltair, hiring an attorney to help will make a difference in the outcome of your case. Some of the most notable benefits of seeking help from an experienced attorney include the following:
- Speaking to law enforcement on your behalf. Invoking your right to remain silent is critical after being arrested. Once law enforcement knows that you have hired an attorney, all questioning will be directed through them, therefore protecting you in the long run.
- Addressing inaccuracies in police reports. Although police officers are supposed to be objective and unbiased, they may misinterpret your statements and inaccurately report facts that can impact your case. Your attorney will be able to limit the risk of inaccuracies in police reports and ensure that your rights are protected.
- Crafting your legal defense. Having a legal team to support you and build an effective defense for your case is critical. Your attorney will utilize a range of tools and strategies to protect your rights.
- Negotiating with the prosecution. Some cases are resolved through sheer negotiation. After representing thousands of clients in criminal proceedings, we have the expertise necessary to effectively negotiate with the prosecution and reach a favorable outcome for your case.
Hiring an Attorney to Help Plan Your Defense
Being charged with a crime can be devastating, impacting your life and your future greatly. If you or a loved one was arrested at Saltair, our team of experienced defense attorneys are here to help. Leveraging our breadth of knowledge and years of experience, we are confident in our ability to fight for your rights and defend your case. To begin planning your defense, schedule a free consultation today with our team at 801-839-4649.