As families across Washington, MO prepare for Christmas, it’s common for long-standing misunderstandings about the law to resurface. Whether in conversations around the dinner table, discussions about year-end responsibilities, or questions sparked
by holiday stress, legal myths tend to spread quickly this time of year.
These myths can create confusion, delay important decisions, or even lead to unintended consequences when situations arise during a busy season. Below are some of the most common holiday legal misconceptions we hear from clients — along with clear,
accurate explanations to help you move into the New Year with confidence.
Myth #1: “Holiday custody schedules can be changed last minute because it’s Christmas.”
While families often try to be flexible, Missouri courts take written custody and parenting plans seriously — including holiday schedules. Last-minute changes without agreement from both parents can lead to conflict or potential violations.
The family law services at The Law Office of Jacob Brandt often involve helping parents understand or adjust their plans when recurring holiday
issues become a pattern.
Reality: Holiday schedules in parenting plans are enforceable. If Christmas arrangements consistently cause problems, you may need to consider a formal modification in the new year.
Myth #2: “Traffic tickets issued around the holidays don’t count until January.”
This is one of the most persistent misconceptions. Holiday travel season sees an increase in traffic enforcement, and citations issued in December carry the same legal weight as any other time of year.
Our traffic law services help individuals handle citations, license issues, or other holiday-season stops.
Reality: A December ticket still carries deadlines, impact on driving records, and potential court dates. Ignoring it because of the holidays only makes things more difficult in January.
Myth #3: “If someone is injured during the holidays, they should wait to deal with it until after Christmas.”
Many people believe they should “just get through the holidays” before addressing an injury from a collision, fall, or other incident. However, delaying key steps can affect evidence, timelines, and the strength of a claim.
Our personal injury legal services support individuals harmed due to negligence, including injuries that occur during the busy Christmas
season.
Reality: Waiting can weaken your ability to pursue compensation. Even basic documentation or legal advice taken early can protect your rights.
Myth #4: “Probate matters can’t move forward in December because everything shuts down.”
While the courts are busier toward the end of the year, probate cases do not pause. Families often use holiday gatherings to discuss estates, which leads to new questions or the discovery of unfinished tasks.
The Law Office of Jacob Brandt provides probate legal services for individuals handling estate responsibilities during the holidays.
Reality: Many probate steps can still be completed in December. Addressing outstanding items now can prevent delays when courts resume their full schedule in January.
Myth #5: “If someone is arrested during the holidays, the consequences are lighter because it’s Christmas.”
This myth spreads quickly — especially around DWI season — but it is completely false. In fact, holiday enforcement is often stricter due to increased travel and seasonal events.
Our criminal defense services support individuals facing charges during the holiday period, including DWI and other offenses.
Reality: Penalties can be just as serious, and in some cases, the enforcement focus is stronger in late December.
How to Know When a Holiday Legal Myth Affects You
If you’re unsure whether something you’ve heard from family, friends, or social media is true, use this simple decision guide:
- Does the situation involve deadlines? (Tickets, filings, notices) — Don’t wait.
- Does it involve conflict? (Custody disagreements, disputes) — Get clarity before it escalates.
- Does it involve safety or harm? (Injuries, charges) — Early advice protects your rights.
- Does the issue come up every holiday season? — It may be time for a long-term solution.
Legal myths often spread because people want quick answers during stressful times — but accurate information always leads to better decisions.
When to Contact an Attorney During the Holidays
If a situation arises this week and you feel uncertain about your rights or responsibilities, reaching out for guidance can prevent complications in the new year. The holidays are stressful enough without carrying unresolved issues into January.
The Law Office of Jacob Brandt is here to provide clear, reliable support — whether you need help understanding a holiday schedule, dealing with a citation, addressing an injury, or clarifying a probate concern.
Contact our office if you have questions or need legal clarity as we approach Christmas.
