If you’ve been arrested or given a ticket for disorderly conduct, the first action to take is to contact an attorney. While typically a misdemeanor in Missouri, it’s still a serious charge that carries stiff penalties and can have significant consequences on your future. To help you understand what you may be facing, below are answers to some frequently asked questions about disorderly conduct.

Common Questions About Missouri Disorderly Conduct Charges

What is disorderly conduct?

Under Missouri law, disorderly conduct is defined as disruptive public behavior that is likely to disturb the peace and/or harm others. It is usually charged as peace disturbance but also could be charged as assault or disorderly intoxication if the facts support that.  This includes making loud noises, screaming obscenities, verbally or physically threatening people, physical fighting, inciting riotous behavior, public intoxication, public urination, and loitering.

What are the penalties for disorderly conduct?

For first-time offenders, most disorderly conduct charges are considered Class A or Class B misdemeanors in Missouri. These carry maximum penalties of up to $2,000 in fines and up to a year in the county jail.  Municipal courts like the City of Columbia label this as a Class B misdemeanor which carries a maximum of $1000 fine and/or up to a year in jail.  But most municipal prosecutors will refer the charge to state courts if they believe jail is appropriate.  

Each case is unique, however, and factors such as age, criminal history, the nature of the crime, and the location of the crime can affect the severity of the punishment. A good attorney will ensure that all of these considerations are taken into account.

Can a disorderly conduct charge be dropped?

Because disorderly conduct can be applied to a range of scenarios, what constitutes the charge can be open to interpretation. This makes it difficult to prove in court in some situations, which means that it is possible to get the charge reduced or dismissed depending on the circumstances of your case.

For example, an attorney can argue that the behavior considered unreasonably loud and boisterous by an arresting officer was actually reasonable in the context of an individual exercising their first amendment right to free speech during a peaceful protest. 

How can a disorderly conduct charge affect me in the future?

In addition to having to pay out hefty fines and/or spend time in jail, a conviction for disorderly conduct charge remains on your permanent record. This can affect your ability to get a job, be approved for a student loan, receive government benefits, and more. Having an experienced criminal law attorney by your side is essential to ensure your future is not negatively affected.

If you or a loved one is charged with disorderly conduct, the Law Office of Mike Hamilton in Columbia, MO, can help. For more than 30 years, this skilled attorney has been defending clients facing a wide array of misdemeanor and felony charges, from disorderly conduct and traffic violations to drug possession and driving while intoxicated. Visit the website to learn more and call (573) 825-5698 to schedule a free consultation today.

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