Westwood Disorderly Conduct Defense Lawyer

Representing Clients in Norfolk County

As with all criminal cases, the potential implications include infringements on your liberty and, therefore, it is important to treat these cases seriously. Disorderly conduct cases involve many distinct legal issues that may have an effect on the charges. Because the charge involves conduct that is so generalized, there are often many legal issues to analyze.

What Is Considered Disorderly Conduct?

Disorderly conduct is a very general term which may include a wide variety of behavior. Basically, it is behavior that disturbs the public tranquility, or alarms or upsets others. Massachusetts Law prohibits conduct that involves the use of force, violence, threats, tumultuous behavior, excessively unreasonable noise, or creating a hazard to public safety or physically offensive condition.

Whatever behavior the government alleges, it must have been reasonably likely to affect the public and either intended to or recklessly created public inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm.

Common type of disorderly conduct include:

• Engaging fighting or threatening.
• Engaging in violent or tumultuous behavior.
• Creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition which serves no legitimate purpose.

What Happens if I am Charged for Disorderly Conduct?

If you are charged with disorderly conduct, it is advisable not to answer any questions until you consult an attorney. If it does not happen in the presence of the police, you should receive a summons for a Clerk’s Hearing or Magistrate’s Hearing.

What are the Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in Massachusetts?

If found guilty of disorderly conduct you may be fined for a first offense or sentenced up to 6 months in the house of correction for a second offense.

What Is the Difference Between Disturbing the Peace vs Disorderly Conduct?

Both crimes are punishable under the same statute, carry the same potential sentence, and are nearly indistinguishable. Generally speaking, disorderly conduct is charged where one’s conduct involves fighting or violent conduct which cause public inconvenience. Disturbing the peace typically involves intentionally causing loud disruptions in which one actually does annoy or disturb at least one person. Disorderly conduct includes reckless behavior whereas actions disturbing the peace must be intended.

Do I Need a Lawyer for Disorderly Conduct Charges?

Yes, you need a lawyer if you are charged with disorderly conduct. While it's not mandatory to have one, facing such charges without legal representation can be daunting and could potentially lead to serious repercussions. A disorderly conduct charge, although seemingly minor, can have long-term effects on your record, impacting your employment opportunities and tarnishing your reputation. A knowledgeable and experienced disorderly conduct defense lawyer can guide you through the legal procedures, protect your rights, and construct a strong defense strategy to mitigate the potential penalties or even have the charges dismissed.

A disorderly conduct defense lawyer can offer the following services:

• Thorough Case Review: The attorney will thoroughly review the details of your case, identifying any possible weaknesses in the prosecution's arguments.
• Legal Guidance: They can provide clear and concise legal advice, helping you understand the charges, potential implications, and your legal rights.
• Court Representation: The attorney will represent you in court, advocating on your behalf and challenging the prosecution's evidence.
• Plea Negotiations: If they find that the evidence against you is overwhelming, they can negotiate a plea deal with the prosecution to reduce your charges or seek a lighter sentence.
• Paperwork Management: The attorney can handle all the necessary paperwork, ensuring that all documents are properly filled out and filed on time.
• Peace of Mind: Lastly, hiring an attorney can provide a sense of security and peace of mind during this stressful period, knowing that a professional is striving to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Only a trained and experienced attorney can properly evaluate the case and mount a defense. The lawyers at Eisenstadt Law are experienced at defending charges of disorderly conduct and protecting your rights. Serving clients in Norfolk, Suffolk, Plymouth, Barnstable, Bristol, Essex & Middlesex Counties.
Dial (617) 523-3500 or fill out our online form today.