What Is Disorderly Conduct in Florida

What Is Disorderly Conduct in Florida

The purpose of disorderly conduct laws in Florida – otherwise known as ‘breach of the peace’ laws – is to regulate disruptive conduct that occurs in public places. Disorderly conduct offenses may be prosecuted as either misdemeanors or as felonies. Disturbing the peace charges are no joke, and the penalties can be severe. Consequently, you need an experienced disorderly conduct defense attorney on your side representing you throughout your case. Our experienced St. Petersburg disorderly conduct defense attorneys can help you to formulate the necessary legal defenses to your charge and can assist you with potentially obtaining a dismissal or a favorable plea deal from the State.

Purpose of Florida Disorderly Conduct Laws

Florida disorderly conduct laws prohibit public acts that ‘corrupt the public morals’ or ‘violate standards of public decency.’ Some common examples of disorderly conduct include the following:

• Public arguments
• Public intoxication
• Non-violent encounters with the police

Disorderly conduct laws are also on the books to prosecute people who take part in public fights or brawls. Under Florida law, these incidents are known as ‘affrays’ and can be prosecuted as first-degree misdemeanors. A more serious public fight – such as one involving numerous individuals – may be deemed a ‘riot’ and can be prosecuted as a felony.

Possible Penalties Upon Conviction

Disturbing the peace is normally prosecuted as a second-degree misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to 60 days of incarceration and a fine of up to $500.00. If the disorderly conduct charge is prosecuted as an affray (i.e. a first-degree misdemeanor), the possible penalties may include imprisonment of up to 1 year. If the charge is prosecuted as a felony, the defendant may be sentenced to more than 1 year of incarceration.

Contact an Experienced St. Petersburg Disorderly Conduct Defense Attorney Today

In the most serious of cases, disorderly conduct can be charged as a felony and a judge could impose a significant period of incarceration at the time of sentencing. If you have been charged with disorderly conduct, it is absolutely essential for you to have experienced legal representation. If you are interested in learning how our experienced disorderly conduct defense attorneys can potentially help you obtain a favorable result in your case, you should contact Khonsari Law Group today at 727-269-5300, or contact us online for a free initial consultation. ¹https://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0800-0899/0877/Sections/0877.03.html