Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct is an offense that encompasses a wide range of disrupting activities. Anything that “disturbs the peace” of an area is considered to be a form of this offense. In California, disorderly conduct is considered a misdemeanor, and acts such as engaging in prostitution or being publicly intoxicated fall under its realm.
What Qualifies as Disorderly Conduct?
A wide range of activities are considered to be disorderly conduct in California. The following acts may be considered forms of this offense:
- Engaging in lewd conduct in a public area
- Soliciting or engaging in the act of prostitution
- Loitering
- Public intoxication
- Loitering or prowling on private property without any reasonable business there
- Peeping into the private residence or room of another party
- Taking shelter on a piece of property without the right to be there
What is the Punishment for Disorderly Conduct?
Disorderly conduct is considered as a misdemeanor, and is therefore punishable as such. Since this act is not a felony, the penalties for a disorderly conduct charge are not terribly severe. Typically, offenders will be sentenced with a short period of incarceration, which may be lengthened depending on the existence of previous charges. Suspension of civil privileges, such as a driver’s license, may also accompany the jail time.
Contact Us
If you have been charged with disorderly conduct, San Jose criminal defense lawyer [firm-name] can help you. Please contact his law office today at [phone-number] to schedule an appointment.
