Disorderly conduct is a serious crime that encompasses improper behavior that disturbs the peace, safety, or older of a public place. These charges can come with signficant penalties if you are convicted. As such, you should speak to a knowledgeable Bergen County Criminal Defense Attorney about your case right away. Please continue reading to learn the potential consequences you can face for disorderly conduct in New Jersey.
What is Disorderly Conduct?
In New Jersey, disorderly conduct is a broad offense. However, an individual is guilty of disorderly conduct if they are behaving improperly in a public place. Essentially, it can be applied when a person exhibits disruptive behavior in a public setting. Engaging in the following behavior can result in being arrested and convicted of disorderly conduct in the state:
- Aggressive behavior: Physical fighting, violent threats, screaming in someone’s face.
- Offensive language: Using words that are abusive, harassing, racial slurs, or unreasonably loud and coarse.
- Creating danger: Act that serves no legitimate purpose to cause public inconvenience, annoyance, alarm, or recklessly creating a risk.
- Criminal loitering: Remaining in a specific location in an unusual manner, causing alarm, or refusing to identify oneself.
What Steps Should I Take if I’m Charged with Disorderly Conduct in NJ?
In the unfortunate event that you have been charged with disorderly conduct in New Jersey, it’s crucial to remain calm. Since the charges stemmed from aggressive or violent behavior, you should avoid engaging in similar conduct.
In addition, you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. They are equipped to help you understand the facts and circumstances of your case. A criminal defense attorney can advise you on the best course of action and assist you in building a robust defense strategy. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to argue a lack of intent or that you were exercising your First Amendment right to free speech. They may be able to negotiate a plea deal or have the case carried out for a period of time while you complete counseling sessions.
What Are the Potential Penalties?
Many brush off these charges because they are classified as low-level offenses. It’s generally considered a petty disorderly offense. However, you should treat disorderly conduct charges just as seriously as any other criminal offense as they carry harsh penalties. Such a charge may be penalized with community service, probation, driver’s license suspension, fines of up to $1,000, and up to six months in jail.
If you have been charged with disorderly conduct, the consequences may be more serious than you initially realized. Our Bergen County criminal defense attorneys are prepared to represent your interests and defend your rights. To schedule a consultation, contact The Law Office of Carl Spector today.
