Fairfield Disorderly Conduct Lawyer
If you were arrested for disturbing or disrupting others, contact a Fairfield disorderly conduct lawyer to take the first step toward clearing your name. A top criminal defense attorney can assess the facts surrounding your arrest and work toward a positive resolution.
What is Disorderly Conduct in Fairfield?
Disorderly conduct is a broad criminal offense that encompasses a variety of unlawful behaviors. Essentially, any conduct that presents an inconvenience or annoyance to others can result in criminal charges. In these cases, the question is whether a reasonable person would view the behavior as annoying or alarming.
Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) § 53a-182 establishes a list of specific behaviors that constitute disorderly conduct. If individuals purposely take these actions with the goal of annoying or disturbing others, or recklessly create a risk of annoyance or disruption to others, then they may be arrested under Connecticut law. A Fairfield disorderly conduct attorney can help explain these laws more comprehensively.
Common Examples of Disorderly Conduct
As an attorney can attest, some common examples of disorderly conduct in Fairfield include:
- Fighting in a bar after a night of drinking
- Engaging in a violent argument with a girlfriend in a public place
- Threatening others with harm
- Blocking traffic on sidewalks or streets
- Disturbing a church gathering
- Making too much noise late at night
Some other examples are refusing to leave a protest upon police request and trespassing on the property of others to view them in their homes without permission.
Can Domestic Violence Lead to Disorderly Conduct Charges?
Yes. One common type of disorderly conduct is fighting, whether it involves physical contact or threats of harm to others. In the context of certain interpersonal relationships, such as spouses, significant others, or family members, fighting can lead to disorderly conduct charges based on domestic violence.
What are the Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in CT?
Disorderly conduct is a Class C misdemeanor. A conviction may result in a three-month jail sentence, a $500 fine, and/or probation. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record that can appear on background checks by prospective employers, colleges, landlords, and creditors.
Protective Orders
If an arrest occurs in the context of a domestic violence situation, you may be subject to a protective order, which limits contact between the parties to the dispute. A protective order can impact child custody and visitation orders, prevent you from possessing guns, and limit the places you can visit or be present, including your own home, in some cases.
All consequences of a conviction can be damaging to your future. Seeking legal advice from a Fairfield disorderly conduct attorney may be the best way to protect your interests.
Contact a Fairfield Disorderly Conduct Attorney for Help
If you have been charged with acting aggressively or disturbing the peace, contact a Fairfield disorderly conduct lawyer at Mark Sherman Law. Legal representation may place you in a stronger position to fight against and overcome the charges you face.