After a night out at the bar or during a college fraternity party, it can be quite easy for things to get out of control. What may seem like a good idea at the time (streaking anyone?) may turn into a nightmare down the road, especially if you are caught by the wrong people. Not only could you face shame and embarrassment, but you may also be arrested. Furthermore, if your harmless fun turns violent, then you could also be facing serious criminal charges.
One of the criminal convictions you could face is disorderly conduct.
What Constitutes Disorderly Conduct?
You could be arrested for disorderly conduct if you are seen to be disturbing the peace. In most instances, a disorderly conduct arrest will be made in a public area, such as in a park, a pub, or on the street. Furthermore, in most instances, a disorderly conduct arrest will follow a night of drinking. Disorderly conduct includes indecent exposure (such as streaking or having sex in a public place), brawling or fighting or displayed offensive, obscene, abusive or boisterous conduct in a public place.
Doing burnouts in the parking lot at 3:00 am may seem harmless, but it could constitute disorderly conduct, especially if the neighbors complain. Attending a rowdy party and singing at the top of your lungs can also be considered disorderly conduct. Having a loud fight with your girlfriend outside the bar can also be considered disorderly conduct.
Disorderly Conduct and Assault
In some instances, a disorderly conduct could only be the beginning of your worries. If you have been arrested for brawling or fighting, you could also be facing an assault charge. Disorderly conduct is usually considered a misdemeanor, which means you could be facing $1,000 in fines and/or 30 days in prison, at the very worst. However, if you add an assault charge to the mixture, you could be facing a lot harsher consequences. In many instances, an assault conviction is considered a felony, which means you could be spending several years behind bars.
How to Avoid an Arrest
When you are out in public, it is best to keep control of your emotions as best as possible, especially after a few drinks. If you are at a party where the police are involved, remain polite or stay away. Don’t try to be the hero and step into a situation to defend the homeowner or try to put in your two cents, especially if you are intoxicated. You may be arrested and might need to spend the night at the station.
Furthermore, no matter how angry you are or how much someone provokes you, it is always best to walk away. You may think that you are taking the coward’s way out or that you need to defend your honor, but there is nothing honorable about a criminal conviction.
Minnesota Disorderly Conduct Lawyer
If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.