Disorderly Conduct: The “Catch-all” Accusation
April 20, 2012 By The Williston Firm
Disorderly conduct is a criminal offense that many people view as a “catch-all” charge because it does not have to be supported by strong evidence. This area of criminal law makes it a crime to be drunk in public, to loiter in certain areas and to “disturb” the peace. Even though disorderly conduct charges are typically classified as a misdemeanor or violation, individuals should challenge charges of disorderly conduct to avoid having a criminal record.
The law defines disorderly conduct as any behavior or conduct that creates a threat to the life or safety of other people. The most common examples of disorderly conduct include engaging in fighting or boisterous conduct and making unreasonable noise for an extended period of time even after being asked to stop. In one example, a Florida man was arrested by police for disorderly conduct after cursing excessively in a grocery store because he was not allowed to buy alcohol even though he presented a valid out-of-state ID.
Police will often charge individuals with disorderly conduct as a way to punish them for poor or obnoxious public behavior. While the majority of misdemeanor offenses are classified as misdemeanors, very serious cases can result in felony charges. The severity of the charges will depend on how “disorderly” the individual was, and it is wise to enlist the help of a criminal defense attorney if you have been charged with disorderly conduct.
If you are convicted of disorderly conduct, you will face possible penalties such as fines, jail time, community service and other legal consequences. You will also have a criminal record that can significantly affect your future. Studies show that having a criminal record significantly lowers your chances of getting certain jobs or professional licenses, and it may impact your ability to live in certain housing areas. Regardless of whether you got in a fight or created a public disturbance, you should take action to protect your rights against disorderly conduct charges.
The state of Florida treats disorderly conduct charges as a first degree misdemeanor that has a maximum penalty of 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine. While these penalties may seem insignificant compared to other crimes, they will still have a dramatic impact on your life. A Jacksonville criminal attorney is well-versed in the laws, procedures and court systems that handle disorderly conduct cases. With the help of a legal professional, you can fight your charges and avoid these penalties.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: The Williston Firm
If you have been charged with disorderly conduct or another criminal charge in Jacksonville, you need a legal advocate who will fight on your behalf to defend your rights. The team of skilled attorneys at The Williston Firm is passionate about providing high-quality criminal defense and legal protection for those accused of crimes throughout Jacksonville, and they will devote personal time and effort to your criminal case.
A Jacksonville criminal defense lawyer from The Williston Firm can provide you with the compassionate, sound legal counsel that you need to defeat your criminal charges. The firm has earned a reputation in the legal community for their ability to deliver a competent and effective defense argument during trial, and they are always prepared to help you.
Copyright The Williston Firm
More information about The Williston Firm
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, it is not intended to provide legal advice as individual situations will differ and should be discussed with an expert and/or lawyer. For specific technical or legal advice on the information provided and related topics, please contact the author.
Police will often charge individuals with disorderly conduct as a way to punish them for poor or obnoxious public behavior. While the majority of misdemeanor offenses are classified as misdemeanors, very serious cases can result in felony charges. The severity of the charges will depend on how “disorderly” the individual was, and it is wise to enlist the help of a criminal defense attorney if you have been charged with disorderly conduct.
If you are convicted of disorderly conduct, you will face possible penalties such as fines, jail time, community service and other legal consequences. You will also have a criminal record that can significantly affect your future. Studies show that having a criminal record significantly lowers your chances of getting certain jobs or professional licenses, and it may impact your ability to live in certain housing areas. Regardless of whether you got in a fight or created a public disturbance, you should take action to protect your rights against disorderly conduct charges.
The state of Florida treats disorderly conduct charges as a first degree misdemeanor that has a maximum penalty of 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine. While these penalties may seem insignificant compared to other crimes, they will still have a dramatic impact on your life. A Jacksonville criminal attorney is well-versed in the laws, procedures and court systems that handle disorderly conduct cases. With the help of a legal professional, you can fight your charges and avoid these penalties.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: The Williston Firm
If you have been charged with disorderly conduct or another criminal charge in Jacksonville, you need a legal advocate who will fight on your behalf to defend your rights. The team of skilled attorneys at The Williston Firm is passionate about providing high-quality criminal defense and legal protection for those accused of crimes throughout Jacksonville, and they will devote personal time and effort to your criminal case.
A Jacksonville criminal defense lawyer from The Williston Firm can provide you with the compassionate, sound legal counsel that you need to defeat your criminal charges. The firm has earned a reputation in the legal community for their ability to deliver a competent and effective defense argument during trial, and they are always prepared to help you.
Copyright The Williston Firm
More information about The Williston Firm
View all articles published by The Williston Firm
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, it is not intended to provide legal advice as individual situations will differ and should be discussed with an expert and/or lawyer. For specific technical or legal advice on the information provided and related topics, please contact the author.
