At Crescent City Law, we understand the stakes. Led by experienced criminal defense attorney John Radziewicz, our legal team has helped countless clients in New Orleans navigate the challenges of domestic violence charges. We’re here to ensure your rights are protected from day one.

This blog discusses what happens after an arrest, what immediate steps you must take, and how to position yourself for the best possible outcome.

Step 1: Getting Out of Jail

If you’ve been arrested for domestic violence in New Orleans, your first question is likely: When can I go home? Unfortunately, unlike other arrests, domestic violence cases in Louisiana come with an added delay.

Under Gwen’s Law (La. C.Cr.P. Art. 313), individuals arrested for domestic abuse battery or related offenses are required to remain in custody for a minimum of 72 hours. This “cooling-off” period is designed to allow law enforcement to assess the situation and determine whether protective measures, such as temporary restraining orders, are necessary.

During this time:

• Bail may be set, but you will not be released until the mandatory hold expires
• A judge will typically review the facts and may issue temporary conditions for release, such as restraining orders, firearm surrender, or counseling requirements

Step 2: Critical Actions Upon Release

As a condition of your release, you’re required to sign a restraining order that restricts your contact with the alleged victim and may also impose other conditions, such as:

Protective or Restraining Orders

A restraining order (also called a protective order) is often issued automatically upon release. This may:

• Prohibit any contact with the alleged victim (direct or indirect)
• Require you to leave a shared residence
• Prevent you from returning to the scene of the incident

Firearm Restrictions

Under Louisiana law (La. R.S. 46:2136.3), anyone under a protective order related to domestic violence must surrender any firearms and is prohibited from owning or possessing guns while the order is in effect.

Violating any of these conditions can result in new criminal charges, including contempt of court or federal firearms offenses.

Step 3: Taking Proactive Steps to Protect Your Future

Even if not mandated by the court, it’s crucial to take these proactive steps to demonstrate your commitment to change and potentially mitigate the consequences of the charges:

1. Begin Anger Management or Family Violence Counseling

These programs:

• Show the court you are taking the charges seriously
• Can be used as evidence of good faith efforts during plea negotiations
• May be ordered as part of probation or pre-trial diversion

Voluntary participation can mitigate penalties or even influence dismissal decisions.

2. Document Everything

Keep a detailed record of:

• The events leading up to your arrest
• Any messages, emails, or witness statements that may support your side of the story
• Compliance with all court orders and programs

3. Hire an Experienced New Orleans Domestic Violence Attorney

Working with a seasoned defense lawyer is the most important step you can take. At Crescent City Law, John Radziewicz and our team will:

• Scrutinize police reports for inconsistencies
• Challenge improperly obtained evidence
• Negotiate with prosecutors or fight the charges in court if necessary

It is best not to wait until your court date, as early intervention can change the course of your case.

Step 4: Understanding the Long-Term Consequences of a Conviction

It’s important to understand the potential long-term consequences of a domestic violence conviction. Violent felonies cannot be expunged from your record. A New Orleans criminal defense lawyer can advise you on your eligibility for expungement if the charges are less severe.

A felony conviction can have far-reaching effects on various aspects of your life, including:

• Employment and Background Checks: A conviction for domestic abuse can show up on background checks, making it difficult to secure employment, especially in industries like education, healthcare, or law enforcement.
• Housing and Education: Landlords and universities often screen for violent criminal history. A conviction may result in application denials or housing evictions.
• Child Custody and Visitation: If you are in a custody dispute, a domestic violence charge or conviction can be used against you, even if the alleged victim was not your child or co-parent.
• Gun Rights: Under both state and federal law, a conviction for domestic violence can result in permanent loss of your right to own or carry a firearm.

Your Rights As An Accused in Louisiana

If you’ve been charged with domestic violence accusations in New Orleans, you still have constitutional and legal rights:

• The right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself
• The right to an attorney
• The right to a fair trial
• The right to challenge the evidence and confront your accuser

Understanding these rights and asserting them early can prevent costly mistakes. With deep knowledge of the Louisiana legal system and a track record of success, John Radziewicz and our team are committed to helping you protect your rights and reclaim your future.

Contact Our Domestic Violence Lawyers at Crescent City Law Today

If you’ve been arrested for domestic violence, Crescent City Law is here to provide compassionate, effective legal representation. We’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights and help you secure the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

The post Arrested for Domestic Violence in New Orleans? Your First Steps Toward Protection and Freedom first appeared on Crescent City Law.

At Crescent City Law, we emphasize the importance of having experienced legal representation. With a seasoned attorney like John Radziewicz advocating for you, you’re equipped to mount a robust defense and achieve the best possible outcome.

This practical guide provides crucial advice for navigating legal challenges confidently and effectively if you ever find yourself arrested in New Orleans.

Common Crimes Visitors Are Arrested For In New Orleans

Visitors to New Orleans, while immersing themselves in the city’s vibrant life, might unexpectedly find themselves dealing with legal issues. It’s not unusual for tourists, often unfamiliar with local laws, to face various charges ranging from minor infractions to more serious allegations.

Here’s a rundown of common legal challenges visitors might encounter:

• DWI/DUI
• Drug Charges (possession, intent to distribute)
• Public Drunkenness
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Disturbing the Peace
• Simple Battery
• Battery 
• Battery of a Police Officer
• Resisting Arrest
• Lewd Conduct (public indecency, public urination)
• Obscenity
• Theft
• Aggravated Battery 
• Possession of Illegal Weapons

In some instances, you may not even need to appear in court; our team at Crescent City Law will represent you at your arraignment and subsequent court dates. Call us today to put your mind at ease, allowing you to continue enjoying all that New Orleans has to offer!

Arrested For a Crime in New Orleans? Here’s What to Do

Being arrested, especially in an unfamiliar city, can be a frightening experience. Here are the essential steps to take if you’re arrested for a crime in New Orleans:

• Remain Calm: Stay calm and composed, and avoid escalating the situation by arguing or resisting arrest. Cooperation with law enforcement is essential. However, you have the right to remain silent and refrain from self-incrimination. Avoid making statements or admissions without first consulting with your attorney.
• Comply with Instructions: Follow the instructions of law enforcement officers and avoid making any sudden movements or gestures that could be perceived as threatening.

• Exercise Your Rights: You have the right to due process under the law, including the right to a fair and impartial trial by jury.
• Request an Attorney: Politely but firmly request to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. You have the right to consult with an attorney before answering any questions or providing statements to law enforcement. Exercise this right immediately upon arrest. Your attorney will provide guidance and support throughout the legal process. 

How Can New Orleans Criminal Defense Attorney Help?

One of the most important steps to take after being arrested in New Orleans is to contact a knowledgeable and experienced attorney. Here’s how your criminal defense attorney can help after your arrest:

• Legal Experience: A New Orleans attorney seasoned in criminal defense will have a thorough understanding of Louisiana laws and can provide personalized legal advice tailored to your situation.
• Protection of Rights: Your attorney will advocate for your rights and work their best to drop your charges. They will ensure that law enforcement officers and prosecutors adhere to proper procedures throughout the legal process.
• Strategic Defense: Your attorney will develop a strategic defense strategy to challenge the charges against you and work towards achieving the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation or litigation.

Tips On How You Can Stay Out of Trouble When Visiting New Orleans

While facing an arrest can be a stressful experience, there are steps you can take to avoid similar situations in the future:

1.  Know the Law of the State: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations when visiting a new city or state. Understanding the legal consequences of certain actions can help you make informed decisions.
2.  Exercise Caution: Practice responsible behavior and avoid engaging in activities that could lead to legal trouble, such as public intoxication, disorderly conduct, or drug possession.
3.  Plan Ahead: Plan your activities and transportation in advance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while visiting New Orleans.

Call Us at Crescent City Law Today!

Being arrested while visiting New Orleans can be scary, but knowing how to handle the situation can make a significant difference in the outcome. By remaining calm, knowing your rights, and seeking immediate legal representation, you can protect yourself and work towards resolving the matter effectively.

Remember to stay informed, exercise caution, and plan ahead to avoid similar situations in the future. If you find yourself arrested in New Orleans, Crescent City Law has years of experience in the field, and with proven results from our clients in the past, we will work toward achieving a positive outcome for your case.

Call our team today at 504-264-9492 so we can get started on building a strong defense.

The post What to Do If You’re Arrested While Visiting New Orleans: A Practical Guide first appeared on Crescent City Law.

When you face legal charges due to carrying firearms, our team at Crescent City Law in New Orleans is ready to provide you with the support and guidance you need.

Having a reliable weapon charge lawyer in Louisiana will help you navigate the complexities of these laws and ensure you understand your rights and responsibilities as a gun owner.

Louisiana’s Potential Law Update in 2024

On March 5, 2024, Gov. Landry signed Senate Bill 1, which provides law abiding citizens the right to carry concealed handguns lawfully without a permit. The law goes into effect on July 4, 2024. No concealed handgun permit is required.

Do I Have To Notify the Police There Is a Weapon in My Car?

According to the Louisiana State Police (LSP) Concealed Handguns FAQs, carrying a handgun in a motor vehicle is typically permissible in Louisiana. However, state law mandates notifying any approaching police officer of the presence of a firearm in the car during official interactions.

This protocol aims to ensure the safety of both parties involved. Maintaining a calm and respectful demeanor while disclosing the presence of a firearm is crucial.

Additionally, carrying your concealed carry permit is mandatory when possessing a concealed handgun, including while operating a vehicle, to provide legal verification if stopped by law enforcement.

What is Open Carry?

Open carry involves visibly carrying a firearm in public, typically secured in a holster or sling. Notably, holding a firearm with one or both hands in a combat stance does not constitute open carry; instead, it is deemed a brandishing weapon, an offense punishable by law in most states.

While open carry is permitted in 46 U.S. states, each state may impose specific rules and regulations. For instance, many states mandate permits for individuals wishing to open carry.

Am I Allowed To Open Carry in New Orleans?

Open carry is permissible in Louisiana without a permit for any adult not legally barred from firearm possession. While Louisiana state law designates the minimum age as 17, federal law sets it at 18.

Under Louisiana law, residents can carry firearms in specific locations provided they possess a permit, and no signage prohibits firearm possession, including:

• State parks, state and national forests, and wildlife management areas.
• Roadside rest areas.
• Your privately owned motor vehicle in designated parking areas such as parking garages and lots.

It’s important to emphasize that these locations permit firearm possession without the need for a permit or license. However, if you’re carrying a firearm in your vehicle and are pulled over for any reason, you must promptly inform the police officer about its presence. Certain areas remain off-limits for firearm possession, including parades and bars.

What Happens if I Get Caught With a Weapon Without a Permit in New Orleans?

Violating New Orleans gun laws carries significant penalties, including a mandatory jail sentence ranging from 3 to 6 months and a fine of $500. Judges in Municipal Court often exhibit strictness towards defendants charged with Illegal Carrying of a Firearm, particularly if the arrest occurred in the French Quarter.

This heightened severity is driven by the understanding that the French Quarter attracts drug dealers who frequently possess firearms illegally. Even if drugs aren’t discovered on the defendant at the time of arrest, the mere presence of a firearm raises concerns for judges.

The judiciary’s reluctance to tolerate firearms in the French Quarter and other crowded areas of New Orleans stems from the potential risks posed to public safety. Incidents involving firearms, especially those affecting tourists, tarnish the city’s reputation.

Consequently, judges frequently opt for jail time for those found guilty of violating New Orleans gun laws. The gravity of illegal carrying offenses is underscored by their distinction from lesser charges such as simple battery or possession of marijuana.

Therefore, if you’re traveling to Louisiana, leaving your firearm at home is advisable to avoid legal repercussions.

Call Louisiana Criminal Defense Lawyers at The Crescent City Law Today

We understand that facing violent crime charges in Louisiana can be an overwhelming and distressing experience. With years of dedicated service, our experienced criminal defense lawyer has steadfastly defended clients against gun charges across all areas of Louisiana.

John Radziewicz, a Louisiana-based criminal defense attorney, possesses extensive knowledge and experience in handling gun rights and defenses related to gun charges.

Our commitment at Crescent City Law is to advocate for your rights and explore all avenues to minimize potential consequences and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. You don’t have to navigate this challenging situation alone.

Contact us today to discuss your case at 504-264-9492, and let us provide you with the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.

The post Can You Carry a Concealed Weapon Without a Permit in New Orleans? first appeared on Crescent City Law.

But we understand that New Orleans has its fair share of festivities that can sometimes get out of hand. 

Even if you’re from out of town, Crescent City Law can help you if you’ve been arrested or received a summons for court during your vacation. Read on to know what you can expect.

What can I be arrested for?

The party scene in New Orleans is known worldwide, and the lack of open container laws within the city limits lets people walk around with drinks in their hands freely. 

But that doesn’t mean that all laws go out the window. On the contrary, there are a number of charges visitors get arrested for:

• Disturbing the peace
• Possession of Marijuana
• Underage drinking/Minor in Possession
• DUI/DWI
• Public urination
• Public intoxication (public drunkenness is tolerated until you violate another person’s space or act offensively)
• Assault and battery / bar fights
• Resisting arrest / fighting with an officer
• Domestic Battery/Battery on a Dating Partner

If you find yourself arrested while visiting NOLA, remember that you do have rights. Do not resist arrest, but tell the officers you want to speak to a New Orleans attorney before answering questions.  You have a right to silence, use it!

Other Do’s and Don’ts

Alcohol clouds your judgment, which is why we’ve provided some more do’s and don’ts for your visit to the Crescent City:

DO:

• Cooperate with law enforcement. If you are publicly intoxicated and are approached by law enforcement, do as you’re told. It might even lower the likelihood that you will get arrested. If they ask for your name and address, you may provide it, but you do not have to provide any additional information.
• Be respectful of other people. Respect their space and their belongings. DO NOT touch someone else without their consent. Pay your bartender, your cab driver, your waitress, etc.

DON’T:

• Do Not drive drunk
• Do Not do drugs
• Do Not Urinate in Public
• Do Not touch the NOPD horses with permission!

Basic info you should know about arrests in New Orleans

If you are arrested, you will probably be taken to the Orleans Justice Center at 800 Perdido St, New Orleans, LA, 70119. 

There, you will be photographed, finger-printed, and provided an orange jumpsuit to wear. After you’ve been booked, you can use the phone call to call a lawyer, friend or family member. (You can find out if someone has already been processed by visiting the Sheriff’s Inmate Query.

To pay your bond, all you need is a co-signer (who can be anyone) to help pay your cash bond. But remember: once you’re let out on bond, this does not mean your case is over. Do not leave town immediately. 

This is the time to get in touch with a New Orleans attorney who can help you figure out your next steps. Once you’ve secured an attorney and worked out the details together, your attorney may even be able to waive your presence in court.

Contact Crescent City Law today

Let’s keep your New Orleans vacation as carefree as possible! At Crescent City Law, we have years of experience working with people who have been arrested while visiting. We’re happy to help you work through whatever crime you’ve been charged with. Give us a call today at 504-264-9492 to schedule your free consultation.

The post Don’t live in NOLA, but got a ticket during your vacation? Here’s what you need to do: first appeared on Crescent City Law.

Perhaps your child moved down to New Orleans for school, or maybe they drove over with their friends for Mardi Gras. Whatever the case may be, a minor in possession charge (MIP) is no joking matter.

Read below to find out how to hire an experienced attorney to help your child through this charge.

New Orleans drinking laws

Generally, the laws regarding alcohol in New Orleans are just like in the rest of the U.S. There are two differences that may confuse some visitors:

• No open-container laws. Unlike in most of the country, within the city limits of New Orleans, people of legal drinking age can carry and consume open containers of alcohol in public places.
• Parents, guardians, or spouses older than 21 can buy for minors. For example, if a family goes out for dinner, a parent can order a glass of wine for their son or daughter, even if the child isn’t of legal drinking age.

What is a Minor in Possession citation?

The legal drinking age in New Orleans, both for drinking and purchasing alcohol, is still 21. So what happens if a young person is caught with alcohol before their 21st birthday?

They will be charged as a Minor in Possession (MIP). As of a change in the law in August 2016, first-time offenders will not face the threat of jail time. But these are the penalties a young person can still face:

• A fine of up to $100
• A mandatory court appearance

There are some circumstances where a minor is in possession of or consuming alcohol that do not qualify for a MIP citation. These include:

• When the minor is accompanied by a parent, guardian, or spouse over the age of 21 (as stated above);
• When the minor is drinking for an established religious event or purpose; or
• When the minor is handling, dispensing, selling, or transporting alcohol as a lawful employee of a retailer, wholesaler, or manufacturer.

Other than these circumstances, however, if your child is found holding or consuming alcohol before the age of 21, a MIP citation is almost surely coming their way.

Hire an experienced attorney

If your child has been cited with a MIP, you should contact an experienced Louisiana attorney as soon as possible to avoid the necessary fines and fees.

Without an attorney, your son or daughter must show up to their mandatory court date to avoid any further consequences, such as contempt of court or a warrant being issued for their arrest..

Hiring a reliable New Orleans criminal defense lawyer will help ensure that your child’s rights are not being violated. Your lawyer will also work hard to have your child’s fines reduced or even removed.

Contact us at Crescent City Law today

At Crescent City Law, we work with local New Orleanians as well as tourists from across the country with an array of criminal charges and citations – including MIP. Trusted by the New Orleans community, the legal team at CCL works diligently to keep your record clean. If you or your child has had an issue with a MIP, contact us today for a free consultation.

The post What to do if your child is charged with “Minor in possession” in Louisiana first appeared on Crescent City Law.

What are the Mardi Gras Laws and Rules in New Orleans?

1. Do not throw anything at the floats or parade participants. Despite what you might think, it is illegal to throw anything, including beads, at a float or someone riding or walking in a parade. This is highly dangerous and illegal. You cannot throw any other objects at any parades. The only exception would be at the end of the large parades, there might be one “float” shaped like a bin so you can throw your beads back so they can be recycled. This is the only exception.
2. Do not get naked. It sounds like an easy law, but this includes, but is not limited to: women, lifting your shirt is getting naked, and illegal. Urinating in public is getting naked, and illegal. Taking your clothes off to jump in the lake or river is getting naked, and illegal. And stupid. Don’t take your clothes off, and you won’t have a problem.
• Women flashing on Bourbon Street is getting naked, and illegal, but the cops usually overlook this.
• Men flashing on Bourbon Street is getting naked, and illegal.  The cops don’t overlook this rule. Sorry, gentlemen.
3. Do not bring a firearm to a parade. This is for your safety and the safety of everyone around you, and is illegal unless you are in law enforcement. With the number of people out in the crowds, and the mix of people out and about, having a gun, whether it is for your safety or to commit a crime, is illegal, not recommended, and also stupid.
• As a special note, it is illegal to bring a gun for a parade route even if you have a concealed weapons permit (CWP).  Similarly, it is illegal to carry a gun concealed without a CWP in Louisiana.
4. Do not do drugs. Drugs are illegal and therefore, this should be pretty self-explanatory. Drugs are still illegal at Mardi Gras. There are many minor narcotic violations and also many undercover or street-clothes cops during Mardi Gras.
• Small amounts/personal use of marijuana is still illegal in Louisiana.
5. If you are under the age of 21, do not smoke, it is illegal (now). Recent federal law INCREASED the legal smoking age to 21. I anticipate local, state, and federal law enforcement will be out writing people summons for smoking underage.
• Note: As of January 30, 2020, the current version of the New Orleans Municipal Code and the Louisiana Criminal Code still permit smoking at age 18.  As your New Orleans Criminal Defense Lawyer, I advise you against smoking if you are under 21.
6. Do not rope off or fence any stake of public property. If you are on the neutral ground, you cannot use yellow caution tape to claim your territory. Law enforcement will tell you to take it down.

What Should You Do at Mardi Gras Parades in New Orleans?

1. Cooperate with law enforcement. Okay, so you’ve had one too many. That’s not a crime. You might even be visibly drunk to some people. You might also be visibly drunk to a police officer. In this case, if you are approached by law enforcement, do cooperate and do as you’re told. It doesn’t mean that you are or are not going to get arrested, but listening to the police and cooperating with their requests will lower your chances of getting arrested.
2. Be respectful of other people. This should be a common sense, no-brainer, but it is harder to remember when you are packed in like sardines. Everyone is at Mardi Gras to have a good time. Do not ruin someone else’s good time because you didn’t catch a shoe, or you have to walk a few more blocks to get a good spot. Respect privacy, belongings, and just general space.
3. Call law enforcement if something doesn’t seem right. If you see any suspicious activity, immediately find your local law enforcer. Do not handle the situation yourself. If you do not feel comfortable telling law enforcement, okay. But, do not handle the situation yourself. You do not know what kind of a mess you can find yourself in. Let the professionals handle the job.

Other Violations to Remember During Mardi Gras

Public drunkenness can only be tolerated until you violate another person’s space or act offensively. Pay your bartender, pay your cab/Uber/Lyft drivers, and pay the waitress for your bill. Do not park in handicapped zones, too close to a fire hydrant, or too close to an intersection. Do not drive drunk. Do not bang on cars or taxis crossing Bourbon Street. Do not fight. Do not touch the NOPD horses without permission of the mounted officers

What happens if I Get Arrested at Mardi Gras in New Orleans?

Even though the laws seem easy to follow, unfortunately Mardi Gras is synonymous with alcohol, and therefore it is possible you or someone you know might “forget” the laws. If you find yourself arrested during Mardi Gras, remember you have rights as an individual.

Do not resist arrest.

If you are asked your name, address, and photo ID, you must provide it, but you do not have to provide any additional information. If you get arrested, tell the officers you want to speak to a lawyer. You may be carted off to Central Lockup, in which case you will be handcuffed, photographed and finger-printed. You can use your phone call to call a lawyer, friend or family member. You may be permitted to withdraw money from the ATM in jail to make your bail. If you or someone you know is in need of help during or after Mardi Gras, please don’t hesitate to contact me by phone (504) 264-9492.

The post Mardi Gras Rules, Regulations, and Getting Arrested at Mardi Gras first appeared on Crescent City Law.

Halloween Activities in New Orleans

Why is Halloween so popular in New Orleans? Well, not only are the houses in the French Quarter haunted, but it’s also a hub for all things voodoo and witchcraft. New Orleanians also love to dress in costumes (for almost every occasion) and love to party, so naturally Halloween is going to be a popular holiday. With that said, there are a ton of events to look out for; some of which have already started!

Krewe of Boo Parade

New Orleans’ Official Halloween Parade will be held this Saturday, October 22nd at 6:30 p.m. through the Marigny, French Quarter and Central Business District. In true New Orleans fashion, this parade will include some great floats, funky bands and costumes, costumes, costumes! An excellent choice to bring the kids!

Boo at the Zoo

Another family event, held at the Audubon Zoo, from October 21 – 29 from 5-9 p.m. Bring the kids to go trick-or-treating at the zoo including a haunted house, games, entertainment and more!

Gay Halloween New Orleans (HNO)

The annual Gay Halloween experience held over the course of the October 27-30th weekend includes a costume contest, second-line and brunch and is a big fundraiser for Project Lazarus, a New Orleans home for men and women with AIDS.

Halloween Night on Frenchmen Street

In true New Orleans fashion, Halloween is a big night of costume-filled partying and there’s no better place to be than right on Frenchmen Street in the Marigny neighborhood. It’s literally a party on the street and you’re guaranteed to have a great time. Just remember if you’re going to BYOB, make sure not to bring any glass bottles to the streets!

Voodoo Fest in New Orleans 2016

Halloween weekend, this year October 28-30, always marks the annual Voodoo Music + Arts Experience in City Park New Orleans and the crowds come out in droves. Some of the best musical acts in the world combine with stellar art and delicious food to make up one of the largest and most popular festivals in New Orleans. Tickets for Voodoo Fest are available as a 3-day pass or single day general admission passes and can be purchased by clicking here.

Who Will Be Performing at Voodoo?

This year, the headlining musical acts at Voodoo Fest include Tool, Arcade Fire, The Weeknd, G-Eazy, Cage the Elephant, The Chainsmokers, Kevin Gates, Porter Robinson, Die Antwoord, Rebelution, Band of Horses, Gramatik and many more. Local act Preservation Hall Band will also be performing on Sunday, October 30th. The full musical lineup is available here.

The Experience at Voodoo Fest

In addition to the music, concert-goers will experience an electric atmosphere decked out with interactive art installations, sponsor areas with unique experiences and giveaways, carnival games, a Craft Beer Garden and of course local New Orleans food vendors. The Forked Up Food Court will include some of the most popular food vendors in the city such as Dat Dog, Blue Oak BBQ, Bud’s Broiler, Boucherie, Reginelli’s Pizzeria, The Big Cheezy, Ernst Cafe and more. For a list of sponsor areas offering unique activities and giveaways, click here. Additionally, make sure to spend some time visiting the Art Market. You will surely find something that fits your taste.

Your Safety at Voodoo Fest

For your safety, you should always listen to law enforcement and security at the festival. The following items are prohibited from being brought into the gates of Voodoo:

• Weapons, fireworks and explosives of any kind
• Illegal and illicit substances, drugs or paraphernalia
• Outside food or drink, including alcohol and coolers, except for 1 factory-sealed bottle of water
• Professional photography, audio, video recording equipment
• Drones of any other flying devices
• Chains and / or spike jewelry
• Umbrellas (!), selfie sticks, framed backpacks or totems Pets (except service animals)
• Skateboards, scooters, bicycles, wagons, carts or any other motorized vehicles

If you plan to drink alcohol before, during or after Voodoo Fest, you should not drive. You should not get in the car with anyone who has drank alcohol. There are other options on how to get to Voodoo Fest. You can take the Voodoo Fest Shuttle from the Hyatt Downtown straight to the festival grounds each day. Buy your tickets for the shuttle here. You can take the Canal Streetcar from anywhere on Canal Street straight to the New Orleans Museum of Art (Museum), which is adjacent to the festival. You can also take the RTA Bus System from your location. You can view the maps and schedules here.

What to Do if You’re Arrested in New Orleans on Halloween

If you find yourself or one of your friends partying too much during the Halloween weekend and you’re arrested for a crime such as public intoxication, lewd behavior, disturbing the peace, a DWI, underage drinking, criminal damage to property or a number of other crimes, then you should call a criminal defense lawyer in New Orleans immediately. An experienced and trustworthy attorney such as Crescent City Law Firm is available to take your call nights, weekends and can meet you off-site. Crescent City Law wants to make sure that your life is not interrupted and your rights aren’t violated. Crescent City Law offers free initial consultations and is just a phone call away at (504) 264-9492 or you can e-mail us here. Happy Halloween!

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