Art often imitates life, or is it life imitates art? In the case of popular, fictional movies and television shows, it seems that people sometimes create their own reality based on fictitious characters and situations. Could shows like Breaking Bad influence people enough to make them take extreme measures, such as creating their own meth labs and participating in illegal activity?
Why is Breaking Bad So Popular?
With a record-breaking season finale viewership of 10.3 million people, the popular TV show has quite a following. This year saw a 300 percent increase in the number of viewers who watched 2012’s season finale. Why the obsession with this kind of show? Is it because we can watch a “regular” chemistry teacher make millions of dollars with his homespun crystal meth lab? Do real people actually believe they can replicate what Walter White’s fictional character has done?
Legal Ramifications are Real
In most cases, in shows like Breaking Bad, or movies in which a good person is doing illegal things for a good reason (in this case, to support his family and pay for his cancer treatment initially), the outcome is favorable. Often, there are no legal consequences for committing crimes. But, in real life, this is not the case. People attempting illegal operations such as selling drugs, buying alcohol for minors, and committing white-collar crimes such as embezzlement, are frequently prosecuted and held responsible for their actions.
Depending on the nature of the crime, the legal ramifications vary. If you are caught doing something punishable by law, you could face hefty fines, jail time, loss of your job, and many other financial and emotional issues that could affect you as well as your loved ones. Unlike movies or TV, if you commit the crime, you will most likely face the unpleasant consequences.
What Should You Do if You are Caught?
If you are participating in illegal activities like the characters on your favorite TV show, and you are caught with possession of illegal substances, endangering the lives of others, stealing, or any other criminal offense, you will need to contact an experienced attorney in your area. Anyone arrested for running a meth lab in central Florida would be wise to retain the services of a criminal lawyer in Orlando. A criminal attorney understands the nature of the crimes you have committed and can help you determine your best course of action for the most positive outcome.
For example, if you are arrested for charges of drug possession, you may be facing jail time and fines. But, an experienced attorney may be able to help get your charges reduced, your jail time shortened, or your fines decreased – especially if this was your first offense. Attempting to handle criminal charges on your own may result in even more unfavorable circumstances.
Regardless of what fictional characters are doing in your favorite TV show, remember that you are in real life, with real life negative consequences. If you want to avoid the risk of being caught, it is best to avoid illegal activity at all costs.
Debbie Nguyen is a designer and blogger in the Atlanta area. She is also a rabid Breaking Bad addict. Criminal lawyer in Orlando Katz & Phillips are a Florida based group who offer help, emotionally and legally, when addictions lead someone to engage in illegal activities.
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