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To keep peace in communities, states have disorderly conduct laws that prosecute those who exhibit unruly behaviors or disrupt public order. Penalties for violating the statutes can affect your future, so you should hire a defense lawyer if you get a disorderly conduct charge. The below guide details the main points about this criminal offense.

What Is Considered Disorderly Conduct?

The meaning of disorderly conduct varies with each state, and in Ohio, it’s anything that qualifies as an offense against the public peace. A few examples of disorderly conduct in the state include producing excessive noise, fighting, blocking vehicular or pedestrian traffic without a valid reason, saying abusive or offensive things, or creating a dangerous condition. Thus, actions such as verbally abusing someone or provoking a fight are considered disorderly conduct. 

defense lawyerThese crimes are also committed during particular circumstances such as disrupting an assembly, engaging in behavior that poses a risk to others while intoxicated, falsely reporting a catastrophe or emergency, inciting violent actions, and not following an order to disperse. Remember that hampering emergency response operations is a crime in Ohio, as well as failing to pay a fare.

How Is Disorderly Conduct Punished?

Generally, disorderly conduct is a minor misdemeanor offense. In most cases, this means paying a fine of up to $150. Behavior that is deemed a misdemeanor in the fourth degree, such as disturbing a lawful meeting, is punishable by fines up to $250 and a maximum of 30 days in jail. A first-degree misdemeanor, like misconduct in an emergency that puts people’s safety at risk, can have a maximum fine of $1,000 and up to 180 days in jail.

Be aware that more severe conduct can qualify as a felony,  punishable by up to $15,000 in fines and eight years in prison. Regardless of whether or not you are facing serious charges, seeking a qualified defense lawyer is necessary because a conviction can result in a criminal record.

 

Top defense lawyer James F. Bogen, Attorney at Law in Cincinnati, OH, will fight for your rights when it comes to disorderly conduct charges. With over 10 years in the legal field, rely on him to provide experienced representation in OVI defense, juvenile delinquency, drug offenses, and more. Call (513) 503-7251 to schedule a consultation with an outstanding defense lawyer today, or visit the website to view his list of practice areas.

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