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Happy 4th of July

Celebrating the 4th of July: Honoring Freedom, Service, and the Law

The 4th of July is a time for Americans to celebrate the freedoms that define our nation. As families gather for parades, fireworks, and barbecues, it’s important to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who protect these freedoms. At Howard Lewis & Petersen, we take pride in our deep legacy of military service, a commitment that continues to drive our defense of individual rights within the legal system.

blue, white, and red flag, 4th of July

Our Legacy of Military Service

Our team at Howard Lewis & Petersen includes several individuals who have proudly served in the Armed Forces. Their dedication to service, both in the military and in the legal field, forms the foundation of our firm:

  • Attorney Jake Gunter, a US Army Major and Judge Advocate General (JAG), uses his military legal expertise to serve our clients.
  • Attorney and Founder Don Petersen, a US Army Sergeant and JAG, established our firm with a vision of integrity and dedication to justice.
  • Retired Partner John Valentine served in the US Marines and contributed his leadership skills to both the military and our firm.
  • Founder Jackson Howard (deceased) served as a US Navy Captain, laying the groundwork for the values that continue to guide us today.
  • Paralegal Delaney Hilton, currently serving in the US Army through the BYU ROTC program, represents our ongoing commitment to service.

These distinguished team members embody the values of honor, commitment, and service that inspire our work. Just as they’ve served our country, they remain dedicated to defending the rights of our clients in the courtroom.

Celebrating Freedom Responsibly on the 4th of July

While we embrace the freedoms celebrated on the 4th of July, it’s important to enjoy the festivities safely and lawfully. Here are several tips to help ensure that your celebrations remain both fun and legal:

  1. Fireworks and Legal Guidelines
    Fireworks are a popular 4th of July tradition, but each state has its own regulations. In Utah, specific types of fireworks can only be used during designated times. Following these guidelines helps you avoid legal consequences while enjoying a safe celebration.
  2. Drink Responsibly to Avoid DUI Charges
    Alcohol is often part of the festivities, but impaired driving can lead to serious consequences. Law enforcement increases DUI checkpoints around Independence Day. Planning ahead with a designated driver or ride-sharing service keeps everyone safe and helps you avoid costly legal issues.
  3. Respect Property and Public Spaces
    Large gatherings can sometimes result in trespassing or disorderly conduct. To keep your celebrations respectful and lawful, be mindful of noise levels and stay within public areas. Respecting boundaries ensures that everyone can enjoy the holiday without incident.

Know and Exercise Your Rights

As we celebrate freedom, it’s important to understand and protect the legal rights that come with it. If you find yourself in a situation involving law enforcement this 4th of July, knowing your rights can help:

  • You Have the Right to Remain Silent: If questioned by law enforcement, you do not have to provide information that could incriminate you.
  • You Have the Right to Legal Representation: If you’re arrested, requesting an attorney ensures that your rights are protected throughout the process.
  • Fourth Amendment Protections Apply: The Fourth Amendment protects you from unlawful searches and seizures. If law enforcement doesn’t have a valid warrant or probable cause, any evidence collected may not be admissible in court.
the lion king movie poster

Defending Your Rights with Honor

At Howard Lewis & Petersen, we are committed to protecting both the freedoms and legal rights of individuals in our community. Whether it’s a DUI, a fireworks violation, or another criminal charge, we are here to help. Our firm’s legacy of military service drives our dedication to defending your rights with honor and integrity.

If you or someone you know encounters legal issues this 4th of July, our team of experienced criminal defense attorneys is ready to assist. We understand the importance of upholding your rights, especially on a day when we celebrate the freedoms our country was founded on.

Conclusion: Honoring the Spirit of Independence

The 4th of July is about more than just fireworks—it’s a time to reflect on and appreciate the hard-fought freedoms that define our country. At Howard Lewis & Petersen, we take pride in our legacy of military service, and we are dedicated to defending the rights and freedoms of our clients. As you celebrate Independence Day, remember to act responsibly and enjoy the holiday safely. If you need legal assistance, we’re here to protect your rights and freedom.

 

 

Court-Martial Law

MAJ Jacob S. Gunter has served as an Army JAG since 2008. The majority of his service has been in special operations or civil affairs concentrating on southeast Asia.

Is the lawyer you are about to call have 20 plus jury trials? Experience matters in criminal defense. Contact Jake today!

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