The Holidays Are Here — Don't Let an Arrest Ruin Your Season

The Holiday Season Means More Patrols — and More Arrests

The weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year's Eve are some of the busiest of the year for law enforcement across Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, and Denton Counties.
Police agencies know that holiday parties, family gatherings, and end-of-year celebrations often involve alcohol — and they ramp up enforcement accordingly.

From office parties and Friendsgivings to tree-lighting events and Cowboys watch parties, the roads are more crowded, and police are on high alert for DWI, possession, and UCW (unlawful carry of a weapon) cases.

Common Holiday Arrests in North Texas

🚗 Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)

During the holidays, agencies like Dallas PD, DPS, and local sheriff's offices often set up DWI task forces and saturation patrols.
Even one or two drinks at a party can lead to an arrest if an officer believes your driving is impaired. Refusing a breath or blood test can result in a license suspension, and even a first-time DWI can have serious consequences.

🌿 Possession of THC or Other Substances

Holiday travel often brings visitors from states where marijuana is legal — but in Texas, THC oil, vape cartridges, and edibles remain felony offenses under state law.
We routinely see travelers arrested in Tarrant County, Collin County, and Dallas County after routine traffic stops turn into possession of a controlled substance charges.

🔫 Unlawful Carry of a Weapon (UCW)

Texas allows lawful carry, but alcohol and firearms don't mix.
Having a gun in your vehicle while under the influence — or carrying into a place that prohibits weapons — can turn a night out into a serious UCW charge.
We often defend clients who simply didn't realize their license or location status made the carry illegal.

Why Arrests Spike Between Thanksgiving and New Year's

• Increased DWI enforcement campaigns funded by TxDOT

• More officers on overtime patrols and checkpoints

• Family and social stressors that can lead to poor judgment

• Visitors from out of state unfamiliar with Texas laws

• Late-night driving after parties or concerts

Even responsible people can find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. One moment of distraction, a taillight out, or the smell of alcohol can lead to field sobriety tests and handcuffs.

What To Do If You're Stopped

1. Stay calm and polite — never argue or resist.

2. Exercise your right to remain silent — you don't have to answer investigative questions.

3. Do not consent to searches of your vehicle or belongings.

4. Call Texas Defenders immediately if you're arrested or charged.

The earlier our attorneys are involved, the better your chances of protecting your record and your license.

How Texas Defenders Can Help

At Texas Defenders, our attorneys handle DWIs, THC possession, and UCW cases daily in Dallas, Fort Worth, McKinney, Denton, and all surrounding courts.
We know the judges, prosecutors, and diversion programs that can make a difference — and we fight to keep our clients' records clean.

Whether you're facing your first arrest or a complicated holiday-weekend charge, our team is available 24/7 to protect your rights.

🎁 Enjoy the Holidays — But Plan Ahead

• Use rideshare services after parties

• Know Texas laws before traveling with firearms or THC products

• Look out for friends and family before they drive

Don't let a single mistake derail your holidays, your career, or your future.

If you or a loved one are arrested this holiday season, call Texas Defenders at 214-306-9696.
Our experienced attorneys are ready to help — day or night — across Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, and Denton Counties.