Ugly Christmas sweaters at work parties are not considered a crime. However, shoplifting, package theft, domestic violence, and DUIs are all crimes—and they occur more frequently leading up to Christmas.

Shoplifting, according to FindLaw.com, is referred to as “retail theft” in Florida. It is defined as taking away any merchandise, property, or money from a store. Altering a price tag is also considered retail theft, as is removing shopping carts from the business property. Depending on the value of the item taken, shoplifting can be charged as either petit theft or grand theft.

More and more people are turning to online shopping to get their holiday shopping done. While this may lessen stress on retail workers at the mall, it makes it easier for “porch pirates” to steal packages, especially when homeowners are at work or visiting family and friends. According to Finder, over 35 million Americans have been victims of package theft within the past 12 months, resulting in a loss of $5.4 billion.

If you are accused of being a “porch pirate,” you may be charged with theft or burglary, in addition to facing federal charges. Stealing mail is considered a federal offense, which can result in a prison sentence of up to five years and a maximum fine of $250,000.

The holidays can also be a stressful time for everyone—especially for those dealing with domestic violence or abuse. According to Women Against Crime, domestic abuse increases over the holidays for several possible reasons, including:

• Stress from shopping, finances, and planning can aggravate volatile personalities.

• Abusers are more likely to use alcohol or drugs when they don’t have to work, especially during the holiday break.

• Opportunity: Abusers are more likely to be home alone with their victims than at other times of the year.

Domestic violence is defined by Florida Statute 741.28 as any assault, aggravated assault, battery, aggravated battery, sexual assault, sexual battery, stalking, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal offense resulting in physical injury or death of one family or household member by another. These cases are often prosecuted by a specialized domestic violence unit.

Holiday parties, endless happy hours, and the depression and anxiety that can come with the season often lead to increased alcohol consumption. Drinking and driving, as outlined in Florida Statute 316.193, carries serious penalties—especially if there are injuries or fatalities.

These penalties can include jail, fines, probation, and license suspension. If your BAC is above .15, or if there are minors in the vehicle, a DUI conviction will carry enhanced penalties.

Don’t let an arrest ruin your holiday season. If you are arrested for any of the above reasons, contact experienced criminal defense attorney Brandon Gans today for a free case evaluation.