Tucson Disorderly Conduct Defense

Defending Disorderly Conduct Cases in Tucson

Disorderly conduct is a broad criminal charge, and covers a wide range of conduct.  Often, Disorderly Conduct serves as a sort of "catch all" for undesirable behavior that falls just short of other criminal conduct.  Other times, it may be charged in conjunction with other criminal offenses.  Commonly called "drunk and disorderly" Disorderly Conduct often does involve alcohol, but can be charged for conduct as minor as "unreasonable" noise. 

If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with disorderly conduct, or related offense, understand that it is not the crime of the century, but you may still want representation, and may wish to consult with an attorney about your case.  Call the Tucson Defenders for a FREE CONSULTATION with a Tucson Criminal Defense Lawyer. 

WHAT COUNTS AS DISORDERLY CONDUCT?
Pursuant to Arizona law, disorderly conduct can be charged when, with the intent or knowledge of disturbing the peace and quiet of a neighborhood, family, or person:
(1) Engages in fighting or violence, or seriously disruptive behavior,
(2) Makes unreasonable noise,
(3) Provoking another person with offensive language or gesture,
(4) Causing commotion with intent to disrupt lawful business, gathering, or procession,
(5) Failing to obey a lawful order to disburse, OR
(6) Recklessly handling, displaying, or discharging a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.
One thing is clear, disorderly conduct covers a very wide range of conduct, and gives police a long list of behavior that can justify an arrest.

Disorderly conduct arrests and charges are common in regards to protests, loud behavior, inciting or engaging in fights, and more.  Disorderly conduct is one of the most common charges for arrests occurring outside of bars in the early morning hours, at sporting events and tailgates, and large informal gatherings. 

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR DISORDERLY CONDUCT?
Most of the time, Disorderly Conduct is a Class 1 Misdemeanor, meaning that it is technically punishable by up to 6 months in jail, but jail time is an uncommon result in disorderly conduct cases, especially if it is a first offense.  Absent a more serious accompanying charge, or a significant criminal history, being convicted of disorderly conduct will be punishable by probation, community service, and fines.  It is also possible, with the prosecution's agreement, to enter into diversion and avoid a criminal conviction altogether.  Disorderly Conduct involving a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument is actually quite serious, and charged as a Class 6 Felony.  As a Felony, disorderly conduct can be charged with an allegation of dangerousness, which makes it ineligible for probation, and a mandatory minimum prison sentence. 

RELATED CHARGES
Disorderly conduct can be related to domestic violence cases, assault crimes, weapons offenses, and more.  Additionally, disorderly conduct is a charge that is sometimes plead down to from a more serious offense.  Because of the vague nature of a disorderly conduct charge, it may help a defendant avoid some of the negative collateral consequences (immigration, professional licensing, employment, travel, etc.) versus other possible dispositions.  If you have been charged with a crime, and are a non-citizen, a licensed professional, or are concerned about the impact a criminal conviction might have on your schooling or career, you should discuss these concerns with your defense lawyer.

IF YOU OR A LOVED ONE IS FACING CHARGES FOR DISORDERLY CONDUCT, ASSAULT, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, OR ANY OTHER CRIMINAL CHARGE FOR THAT MATTER, CONTACT THE TUCSON DEFENDERS FOR A FREE CONSULTATION WITH A TUCSON CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY.

520-585-5757

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Arizona Disorderly Conduct Statute
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