The Criminal Defense Law Center of
West Michigan

Disorderly Conduct

Although many people will not take disorderly conduct or disturbing the peace charges in a serious manner, The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan believes these charges need to be taken very seriously. It is important that retain the best legal counsel you can to help you out when you have been arrested. We have the lawyers that Grand Rapids, MI residents rely on is The Criminal Defense Law Center of West Michigan. We have the experience you need to get results! Call Shawn now at 616-438-6719 for a free case evaluation. 

What Constitutes Disorderly Conduct

Disorderly conduct is a crime that covers many different types of behavior. If any of the charges below apply to your case, contact the disorderly conduct lawyers Grand Rapids MI residents can trust to get the best results possible!

A disorderly conduct charge to many people seems like a minor offense.  This charge is a misdemeanor.  Misdemeanor charges mean you can end up with a criminal record. You need to take these charges seriously! 

There are many acts which can fall under this crime, including:

  • Disturbing the peace
  • Prostitution
  • Begging
  • Indecent exposure
  • Vagrancy
  • Obscene conduct in public
  • Loitering around prostitutes
  • Intoxication in public
  • Obstructing traffic
  • Physical altercations
  • Loud and offensive language

Penalties For Disorderly Conduct Offenses

This charge is always a misdemeanor.  You will be facing a fine of up to 400 dollars and maybe 90 days in jail. We have never had a client that we have represented go to jail over on this type of charge. 

We have also never had a person get put on probation that we have represented on this type of charge. You will also have a permanent criminal record if you are convicted.

For the court to convict you for disorderly conduct, the state must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you intentionally frustrated public tranquility and that your actions caused harm to others. 

There several defenses to the charge that are based on your actions. 

Self-Defense
If you were involved in a fight you can argue to the court that your actions were justified to prevent you or another person from getting hurt.  You may call witness to testify in court to help your case.


Freedom of Speech 
If you were charged for offending the public because your behavior was considered too noisy, you could argue the First Amendment protected your right to to be noisy.  

Duress
You may argue duress if a third party forced you to act a certain way.  An extreme example of this would be someone made a credible threat against you. 

Mental Incapacity
Your attorney may argue that your actions were involuntary because you can not control your behavior.  A classic example of this is someone who has a  medical condition.

Legal Options

Defendants charged with disorderly conduct many times to in court for an arraignment. If you hire me to represent you, you may not have to appear for this hearing. This hearing is where you enter a plea of not guilty. 

I will passionately argue with the prosecuting attorney about why your case should be dismissed. If that is not possible because of the evidence against you is very strong, I will get you the best deal possible. Do not face these charges alone. Call me today at 616-438-6719. I will help you get the best results possible. Do not delay. The call is free. I am waiting to hear from you. 

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