How to Avoid Legal Problems While Traveling
Although you might think that knowledge of the law in general is simply a matter of common sense, you may find yourself 
in deep water when you opt to travel abroad. Even within your own country there are likely wide variations amongst states, provinces, or prefectures in terms of local laws. And when you travel to other countries the disparities become even larger. Since you’ll already have to contend with a language barrier, unknown customs, and local perceptions of foreigners, you probably don’t want to add to the laundry-list of potential snafus by going in ignorant of local laws. So here are just a few tips to help you avoid legal trouble when traveling abroad.
For starters, you need to make every effort to apprise yourself of the general laws of the land you are visiting. As an example, consider westerners that decide to visit Middle Eastern countries (not the greatest idea to begin with, considering the strife between these two parts of the world at the moment). In some of these countries it is not only a custom for women to remain modestly covered, it is actually the law. And a failure to observe it, even as an outsider, could land you with fines or even jail time. The fact that you didn’t know better is no excuse. This may seem like an extreme example, but it just goes to show how very important it is to know about laws that could affect you during your travels so that you can try to avoid the legal problems they entail.
In truth, your best bet is to use common sense. If you’re not sure if something is legal or not, it’s best to assume that it isn’t and avoid it. For example, if a road seems to be closed to through traffic, perhaps you shouldn’t drive there (even though you can’t read the sign to verify your suspicion). Or if someone is bothering you at a bar or club, simply walk away rather than starting a fight. You don’t have to read the lexicon of laws to know that public brawling is illegal just about everywhere.
Frankly, you could get yourself into trouble even if you understand the laws of the foreign country you’re visiting. Perhaps you’ll end up driving on the “wrong” side of the road (because that’s where you’re used to driving in your home country). Or maybe you’ll have a few too many drinks and behave in a manner that your hosts find inappropriate (even though it’s more or less acceptable where you come from). The point is, something could happen and you might end up in the clink. If it can happen in your own country, it can certainly happen abroad. In this case, you’ll need some help.
If you got travel insurance before leaving, congratulations – any legal troubles you have are likely covered. Now you just need to find an attorney, and one that specializes in cases involving foreign travelers may be your best bet. You’re going to need someone who speaks both languages, understands the local sentiments towards tourists, and has a good track record of winning cases like yours. Of course, if you can’t locate such an attorney, your best bet is to contact your country’s embassy. They can provide you with legal aid and all the information you’ll need to make reparations for your infraction and get home safely.
Carol Montrose is a contributing writer for The Wilson Law Firm, the premier Fairfax DUI lawyer.
