We've almost all been in trouble at some point or another. Whether it is with teachers in school, the boss where you work or with the police on the streets, there's a right way and an incorrect way to handle each and every scenario (since some people have learnt the hard way). But just how should you handle it when trouble finds you?

The first thing you will need to think about is where trouble is most likely to arise. Pubs, bars and clubs are areas where the alcohol flows freely and (subsequently) things can go wrong very quickly. It is easy to get caught up when you are enjoying yourself with your mates; you might drink more than your limit which can soon lead to you punching above your weight. Intoxication can hinder your capability to make sound decisions and this can result in big trouble when you are in a confrontation (especially as the other party will also be likely to be operating under the influence of alcohol).

A single pint can be sufficient enough to make a normal, mild-mannered man into an invincible fighting machine (well, in his own mind it will). This might cause him to feel compelled to establish his invincibility on whoever happens to be wandering past. Whether you are the passer-by, or the beer-fueled brawler himself, your night is not likely to end well in this situation. 45% of violent crime is linked to drunken behavior every year, though drunkenness is accountable for 58% of the attacks carried out by individuals with no previous relationship with their victim.

The streets are perilous places. Don't get me wrong: it's not just the streets that are dangerous; your house is hazardous as well (according to the statistics), but the streets are hazardous for different reasons. Muggers and thieves don't lie in wait around every corner, but they do hide around some and that is enough reason for you to be cautious. Always be familiar with your surroundings and learn how to spot the signs that reveal you may be in danger of encountering crime.

Just because you are not paranoid, does not imply you're free from danger. Though paranoia should clearly be discouraged (as it can bring about additional inherent problems) being aware that there are people in the world who harm other individuals at random (however uncommon this may be) is a must for any member of society. There's a reason why we have so many street lamps after all and it is not only to help us avoid stumbling over. However that brings another good point to consider; watching your feet while you walk, rather then looking around you, is another good way to help you walk straight into trouble.

When you get into a violent conflict with another person, you already have millions of years of evolution telling you what to do. Flight or fight. Adrenalin kicks in and you will most likely react instinctively according to what your body is telling you to do. If you're the one instigating the conflict, then you need to understand what you are getting yourself into. Just by making your purpose to fight known to your victim / potential sparring-partner, you could already be found guilty of the criminal offence referred to as assault. Taking it even further can result in an escalating series of charges, each carrying a more serious penalty than the last.