What Does It Take To Break The Law Without Realizing It?
We live in a modern society that is based on democratic principles, in which the laws and legal legislation exist to make sure that our rights are not being neglected or disregarded. Even though most of the laws are incredibly valuable and help in maintaining peace in the world that we live in, it is hard not to realize that some of the rules that are written in the law books, are pretty strange and, at times, even downright silly. Thousands of people every year are breaking those laws, without even knowing what they are doing. These laws are far from being perfect and can create a lot of trouble. In Los Angeles alone some of these laws are absolutely ridiculous and you can find out why on your own:
1.We all know that some trees and bushes need a slight trimming at times. This makes them grow in the right direction and prevents them from occupying way too much space. This is especially important for public property in the cities, where some of bushes and trees aim at occupying the neighbor’s backyard. However, only a few people realize that according to the law, trimming these tress or bushes on public property is a genuine crime. Indeed, people, who are going to trim these trees or bushes, will have to pay a fine or may even be facing jail time, which is certainly quite ridiculous.
2. Sure enough, jaywalking in Los Angeles is illegal. Of course, this is only natural and is accepted in the entire world. People, who tend to disregard this rule, can easily cause a car accident, get hit by a vehicle and so on. Breaking this law should be punished properly. Still, Los Angeles law enforcement officers take the law way too seriously. Should you step off the curb while the red light is still on, you risk having to pay a fine that may consist of up to $250.
3. A lot of people are getting rid of their old or unnecessary things via yard sales. These sales can be quite useful for some of us, as you can find things that you actually need for fair prices. However, people need to know about the garage or yard sale and many of us use foil or Mylar balloons as promotion. Well, little do we know – raising more than a single Mylar or foil balloon at a height that is over 5 feet is a crime. How silly is that?
4. Who does not like to play catch from time to time? Kids like to throw ball on the street and their parents also enjoy some relaxing moments with their baseball gear or basketballs. Yet, Los Angeles is also quite unforgiving for any kind of ball throwing activities on the street. Indeed, you may not believe it, but throwing any kind of ball or even pebbles on the sidewalk and even in the park is illegal and can result in a substantial fine. Only special areas that were specifically designed for these purposes, may be used to play catch, you know.
5. Kids love skateboarding and roller-blades. Of course, at times, such activities can be deemed as dangerous, but the city of Los Angeles went even further by prohibiting to use skateboards or roller-blades in the libraries or courthouses. Such actions are actually considered a crime and are punishable by law.
6. Surely, you did not know that one of the old laws is specifically prohibiting you from bathing your twins in the same bathtub. Yes, if you have two kids, they can only take a bath separately. Otherwise, you are a criminal, who is breaking the law.
7. Of course, chances are, you neglected one of the above-mentioned laws and perhaps you are now going to face the court. Well, brace yourself – be extremely serious and, more importantly, totally calm. It is illegal to cry on the witness stand. Way to go there, Los Angeles.
Indeed, the above-mentioned laws are ridiculous and a lot of people break them on day to day basis, without even knowing that they are committing a crime. One way or another, if you were taken to court and are facing some actual charges, because you are accused of breaking one of those silly rules, do not hesitate to get in touch with a qualified attorney at the earliest opportunity. That is right – only a good criminal lawyer will be able to protect you from these unfair laws and only an experienced one will help you avoid any jail time. Still, do not think that the situation is funny – Los Angeles law enforcement is dead serious and you will not be able to get away with breaking even the silliest laws without a good lawyer.
Los Angeles Criminal Specialists, www.losangeles-criminaldefense.org