A curfew violation may not seem serious, but the legal penalties can be severe. Understanding what a curfew is and how it applies to you is important, no matter where you live.
So what is a curfew? And what does it mean for you? A curfew is a law that restricts people from being in public places during certain hours. Violations can lead to fines, community service, and even criminal charges.
If you’ve been cited or arrested for being out past curfew, you may be wondering what to do next. A Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer can help minimize the consequences of the violation.
What is a Curfew and What Does It Mean for You?
Curfew laws prohibit people from being in public places during set hours. While they can apply to everyone during certain emergencies, they usually target teens under a certain age.
Violating a curfew without a valid exception can result in fines, community service, and, in certain cases, even arrest.
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What is the Curfew Time in California?
California does not impose a statewide curfew. Instead, curfew laws are set by local cities and counties. For example, in Los Angeles, minors generally cannot be in public places between 10 p.m. and sunrise without an adult unless they have a valid exception.
What is the Curfew for a 17-Year-Old in California?
In most California cities, minors must be off the streets between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless accompanied by a parent, guardian, or another responsible adult. You may be exempt from this juvenile law if you’re:
- Traveling to or from work
- Attending or returning from school, a place of worship, or a cultural event
- Running an errand at the request of a parent or guardian
- Involved in an emergency situation
- Legally emancipated
What Happens if You are Out Past Curfew in California?
If you’re out past curfew, and law enforcement stops you, they will likely ask for identification and question why you’re in public. If you cannot provide a valid reason, you may face:
- A warning: A simple warning is often given for a first offense, especially if you’re close to home.
- A citation or fine: The fine you receive will depend on the city you’re in, but it may cost you hundreds of dollars.
- Community service: Some jurisdictions require minors to complete service hours.
- Parental notification: Your parents or guardians will likely be contacted and asked to pick you up.
If you’re an adult, being out past curfew can result in misdemeanor charges.
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Can You Go to Jail for Being Out Past Curfew?
For minors, curfew violations usually do not result in jail time. The most common outcomes are warnings, fines, or community service. However, if you commit another offense while breaking curfew (such as trespassing, vandalism, or theft), you could face criminal charges that lead to detention.
Violating an emergency curfew as an adult is more serious. If you’re caught breaking such an order, you may be charged with a misdemeanor, which can carry up to six months in county jail and fines of up to $1,000, depending on the circumstances.
How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Help?
If you’ve been cited or arrested for a curfew violation, a criminal defense attorney can help by:
- Reviewing your case: A lawyer can determine whether you had a legal exception or if your rights were violated during the stop.
- Challenging evidence: If police did not follow proper procedures, an attorney can fight to have the citation or charges dismissed.
- Negotiating reduced penalties: An attorney may be able to reduce fines, community service hours, or other consequences.
- Representing you in court: If your case goes to court, a lawyer can advocate on your behalf and fight to keep your record clean.
Why Does California Have Curfews?
California uses curfews for two main reasons:
- Juvenile safety: Some curfews are instituted to keep minors out of potentially dangerous situations late at night and reduce juvenile crime rates.
- Public order during emergencies: During natural disasters, civil unrest, or other crises, local officials may impose a curfew to control crowds, prevent looting, and ensure citizens’ safety.
What Time Does Curfew End in CA?
For minors, curfew generally ends at 6 a.m. in most California cities. During an emergency curfew, this time will be determined by local officials.
Can You Drive on the L.A. Freeway During Curfew?
If you’re a minor driving during curfew hours without a valid reason or adult supervision, you can be stopped by law enforcement. Even if you have a driver’s license, curfew laws still apply until you turn 18.
During an emergency curfew, driving on the freeway may be prohibited for everyone unless you are traveling for an essential reason, such as work, medical care, or a family emergency. Whether or not you can do so legally will ultimately depend on local laws.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you or your child has been cited for a curfew violation in California, the consequences can be lasting. An experienced criminal defense lawyer from Simmrin Law Group can defend your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case today.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form