Connecticut Disorderly Conduct Arrest Lawyer
Disorderly conduct is one of the most broadly defined offenses codified under Connecticut state law. While there are certain actions explicitly defined by state statute as disorderly conduct, police officers can make arrests based purely on their own belief that someone was acting in a “disorderly” manner. A Connecticut disorderly conduct arrest lawyer can help you understand the reason for your arrest and effectively contest any charges you face as a result. Contact our firm to dicuss your unique case with a dedicated attorney today.
When Could Someone Be Arrested for Disorderly Conduct?
According to Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §53a-182, the criminal offense of disorderly conduct involves someone either intentionally or recklessly creating a risk of “inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm” to another person. The statute names several behaviors that expressly constitute disorderly conduct, including but not limited to blocking traffic, disrupting a public gathering, ignoring a police officer’s direction to leave a public gathering, and spying on someone while trespassing on their property.
However, perhaps the most important portion of this statute is Section (a)(2), which allows someone to be arrested on disorderly conduct charges for any behavior that “annoys or interferes with another person.” This gives law enforcement the authority to arrest for virtually any action they—or the person who summoned them—personally consider to be disruptive. If someone was arrested for disorderly conduct, they should contact a Connecticut attorney as soon as possible.
How Can Someone Be Arrested for Disorderly Conduct?
Police need what is known as probable cause to arrest someone. They often have probable cause either from evidence and information gathered from being on scene shortly after the alleged crime, or from an investigation followed by obtaining a warrant. If you know you are being investigated for disorderly conduct, any Connecticut defense attorney will tell you it’s important to begin your disorderly conduct defense even if you have not been arrested yet.
Can the Police Arrest Me On Scene for Disorderly Conduct?
Yes. In most situations, disorderly conduct arrests occur at the scene of the alleged offense, generally very soon after it supposedly happened. In this case, a Connecticut defense attorney can help you by reviewing the police report and other evidence to make sure the disorderly conduct arrest was lawful and not in violation of any of your Constitutional rights.
Domestic Violence and Disorderly Conduct Arrests
Whether someone is arrested on the spot or after an investigation for domestic violence disorderly conduct, the ramifications of how their offense is classified can be significant. Based only on an accusation of disorderly conduct involving a family member, spouse, relationship partner, or resident of the same domicile, a person in Connecticut may face an investigation from the Connecticut Department of Children and Families, a temporary restraining order, a mandate to move out of their home until trial, and various other personal and social consequences.
With these kinds of arrests, representation from a qualified disorderly conduct attorney in Connecticut is often even more important. Domestic violence cases proceed much more quickly than most other criminal cases, so seeking legal guidance quickly is also key.
Talk to a Connecticut Disorderly Conduct Arrest Attorney Today
No matter what circumstances you were arrested under, you deserve dedicated legal representation and steadfast protection of your rights and best interests. Read our hundreds of certified 5-star reviews on Avvo.com here. Then, call a Connecticut disorderly conduct arrest lawyer at Mark Sherman Law today to talk about your situation and determine what the best course of action is.