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Disorderly conduct is one of the most common offenses in the United States, and is often the result of unreasonable police officers giving someone a hard time until they lose their cool.

Disorderly conduct generally includes most kinds of unruly or disturbing behaviors, which acts to provoke a disturbance.

Disorderly conduct laws exist in every state, and are often used as a “catch-all” charge for minor offenses. It is important to note that disorderly conduct is a prosecutable offense, which can lead to fines, jail time, and other punishments upon conviction.

Examples of Disorderly Conduct

Disorderly conduct offenses vary widely by state. Here are some of the most common acts that are considered disorderly conduct offenses:

• Public drunkenness
• Inciting a riot
• disturbance of the peace
• loitering in certain areas
• fighting / physical altercations
• obstructing traffic
• use of extremely obscene or abusive language
• loud or unreasonable noise

Given the wide range of behaviors that could constitute disorderly conduct, a person may be arrested for this crime without proper cause. Virtually any socially offensive or disruptive conduct may be prosecuted as disorderly conduct.

Consequences of Disorderly Conduct

While disorderly conduct may seem like an insignificant charge at first, individuals with a disorderly conduct conviction on their record may have a difficult time pursuing educational, career, and other opportunities in the future. In addition, a disorderly conduct conviction may influence the outcome of any subsequent bout with the law.

Disorderly conduct charges might be dropped after an arrest or may be prosecuted as misdemeanors. In some more serious cases, disorderly conduct can be prosecuted as a felony, which may result in significant jail time.

A disorderly conduct conviction can bring significant punishment, including fines, community service, compulsory counseling, and jail time. A judge sentencing someone for disorderly conduct will often consider that person’s criminal history.

A first-time offender's disorderly conduct sentence is typically very light. This sentence may be even be suspended if certain conditions are met.

Repeat offenders or those with more serious criminal backgrounds may experience harsher repercussions.

A Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

Treating disorderly conduct charges seriously from the beginning can help you avoid serious problems in the future.

An attorney who is familiar with the court proceedings related to disorderly conduct can help you to understand the local laws and regulations governing this charge. Don't let a simple misunderstanding haunt you in the coming years.

If you would like to speak to a qualified and experienced attorney in your area, please contact us.

Please see related topics:

Indecent exposure

Firearm possession

Assault

Battery

Fighting

Domestic abuse