To Protest or Not

Considering attending a protest? Think Twice!

A new administration in Washington, D.C. brings new legislation followed by both happy campers and the not-so happy campers! Many people have divided views on what should and shouldn’t be a law. They are taking their beliefs to the street and organizing and attending protests.

Most protests start peaceful and hopefully remain that way, but a protest can turn violent. 33rd Street Bail Bonds wants you to be aware of your rights as well as how to protest peacefully. Here are a few tips should you decide to attend a protest:

•Make sure that the protest you are attending is in a public place and that the organizer has the proper permits filed for the protest
•Know your rights
•Wear comfortable clothing
•Only bring the bare essentials such as identification, cell phone, needed medications, food, drink, cash
•Keep your valuables in a small bag and on you at all times. Large groups of people have a tendency to bring out pickpockets
•Be respectful and follow the law

How To Dress:

When dressing for a protest, comfort is key. Here are a few suggestions on how to dress and what to pack for a protest:
•Wear comfortable shoes
•Wear layers
•A zip-lock bag that contains either a water soaked or vinegar soaked bandana (to use if tear gas is used at a protest)
•Notepad and pen
•A small first aid kit
•Phone numbers of your lawyer or a friend who can bail you out of jail if you are arrested
•Baby wipes, tissues, and eye drops

What to do if the protest turns violent:

If you are approached by a police officer, then make sure to be respectful and to follow the officer’s commands. Remain calm, be polite, and do not run from an officer. Keep your hands visible at all times and do not make any sudden movements. You should ask the officer if you are free to go. If the answer is yes, then walk away. If not, the officer might question you. After providing the officer your name, you can exercise your right to remain silent (after informing the officer that you intend to exercise that right).

If a peaceful protest turns violent and you do end up arrested, here are some tips:
•Do not resist arrest
•Remain calm and obey the officer’s commands
•If the police ask for a permission to search you or your belongings, you have the right to decline (unless there is a warrant)
•Ask for an attorney
•You can choose to plead not guilty
•Be aware that you will may spend time in a jail cell. Be prepared to be bored. Do not strike up conversations with your cell mates. Anything you say can be used against you

33rd Street Bail Bonds wants you to know your rights and stay safe at a protest.
If you or a loved one are arrested and charged at a protest, then please call us at 407-425-7200 or 407-425-3303 to start the bail bond process. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. Our knowledgeable and experienced bail bond agents are here to help. They will answer your questions, assist you with paperwork, and lend an empathetic ear.

We have helped clients facing numerous charges such as disturbing the peace, DUI, drug trafficking, domestic violence, assault, and more. We can help you too! Our clients come from all over Central Florida including Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, and Volusia counties. Please call us today at 407-425-7200 or 407-425-3303. We are the name you can trust!