This is a common offense that could result from a variety of scenarios. Many people mistakenly believe if they are involved in something as simple as a bar fight they will not face any criminal charges. However, Pennsylvania laws strictly prohibit violent or disruptive conduct in public.
Being involved in an act of disorderly conduct could place a permanent mark on your criminal record, severely limiting your educational and occupational opportunities. If you have been involved in an incident that has led to you being charged with disorderly conduct, it is vital that you contact a qualified criminal defense attorney in Pennsylvania immediately.
Philadelphia Disorderly Conduct Charge Lawyer
Joseph Lento is an experienced defense attorney in Philadelphia who is committed to ensuring the rights of his clients are protected throughout the legal process. If you have been charged with disorderly conduct in Philadelphia, Joseph Lento will fight to keep your record clear. Contact him today at (215) 535-5353 to review your defense options during a no-obligation consultation.
Information Center for Disorderly Conduct in Pennsylvania
- What is Considered Disorderly Conduct?
- Examples of Disorderly Conduct in Philadelphia
- Consequences for Disorderly Conduct
What is Considered Disorderly Conduct?
According to section 5503 of the Pa. Cons. Stat., an individual can face charges for disorderly conduct in Philadelphia if he or she:
- Engages in violent or threatening behavior
- Makes unreasonably loud noises
- Uses obscene language or makes obscene gestures
- Creates a dangerous or physically offensive situation by committing an act that serves no legitimate purpose.
In order for an individual to be found guilty of this offense, he or she must have intended to cause a public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm, or acted recklessly to the point where he or she created a risk or a disturbance of some sort.
Examples of Disorderly Conduct in Philadelphia
Disorderly conduct is a term that encompasses a wide variety of actions. Some of the most common actions that lead to disorderly conduct charges in Pennsylvania include:
- Fighting in public
- Provoking, cursing, or yelling at an employee of a store
- Playing music extremely loudly
- Disturbing or disrupting a meeting or lawful assembly
- Rioting
Many times, individuals are charged with disorderly conduct in conjunction with various other charges such as assault, battery, trespassing, and criminal mischief.
Consequences for Disorderly Conduct
Many individuals mistakenly believe that this offense is not serious and will result in a slap on the wrist. However, disorderly conduct is often charged as a third degree misdemeanor, and a conviction for this offense carries up to a one year jail sentence, and/or a fine of up to $2,000.
Therefore, if you are charged with his offense and you want to avoid spending time behind bars, it is in your best interest to review your case with a licensed Pennsylvania defense lawyer immediately.
Seeking an Attorney for Disorderly Conduct in Philadelphia County
If you have been arrested and charged with disorderly conduct in Philadelphia, the right attorney may be able to help you avoid serious punishment. Joseph Lento of Lento Law Firm is prepared to serve you. Joseph Lento has years of experience and is more than capable of handling your case. Call him today at (215) 535-5353. Your first consultation is free.