Phoenix Disorderly Conduct Lawyer

Disorderly Conduct in Arizona

In Arizona, disorderly conduct, often colloquially called "disturbing the peace," is defined as knowingly engaging in behavior that disrupts the peace or quiet of a neighborhood, family, or person. This can include excessively loud noise, fighting, offensive language, or any act that recklessly disregards the risk of causing inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm to others.

Examples of disorderly conduct can include:

• Loud and disruptive behavior: Yelling, playing excessively loud music, or any other noise that disturbs others can lead to a charge of disorderly conduct.
• Public intoxication: Being visibly drunk or under the influence of drugs in a public place to the extent that it causes annoyance or poses a safety risk.
• Fighting in public: Engaging in physical altercations or brawls in a public setting.
• Obstructing traffic: Standing or walking in a manner that blocks vehicular or pedestrian traffic without authorization.
• Using obscene language or gestures: This can include making offensive gestures or using profanity to incite a disturbance.

Disorderly Conduct Penalties in Arizona

Disorderly conduct charges in Arizona can vary in severity, often based on the circumstances and the conduct's impact on those involved. Generally categorized as a misdemeanor, the penalties include jail time, fines, and community service. 

Specifically, disorderly conduct is typically charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor level, which can carry the following penalties:

• Up to six months in jail
• A fine of up to $2,500 plus surcharges
• Up to three years of probation
• Mandatory period of probation if charged with a domestic violence offense

In cases involving a weapon, the charges can escalate to a felony, leading to more severe consequences. 

Disorderly conduct is classified as a class six felony if it involves recklessly handling, displaying, or discharging a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument. 

The penalties for felony disorderly conduct can be more severe and may include:

• A minimum prison sentence ranging from four months to two years for a first-time offense
• For individuals with prior felony convictions, the prison sentence can extend beyond two years
• Up to $150,000 in fines
• Victim restitution

Factors That Influence Penalties

The severity of penalties for disorderly conduct can vary based on several factors, including:

• Your criminal history
• The nature of the behavior leading to the charge
• The presence of aggravating circumstances, such as the use of a weapon, the presence of minors in the incident, threats to public safety, intoxication, or serious bodily injury to another

Understanding the potential ramifications of a disorderly conduct charge emphasizes the importance of a skilled defense strategy to reduce or avoid these penalties.

How We Defend Against Disorderly Conduct Charges

At Ryan Garvey Attorneys, PLC, our defense strategy involves thoroughly analyzing the case's circumstances. We explore every avenue, from questioning the evidence and how it was obtained to challenging the interpretation of your actions under the law. 

We aim to demonstrate such defenses as the lack of intent to disrupt peace, that you were arrested without probable cause, or that you did not commit a prohibited act listed under the disorderly conduct law. Our skilled attorney is here to guide you through the complexities of the justice system, providing a robust defense that seeks to protect your rights and future.

Reach us on our contact form or call (602) 353-7328 to schedule a case review today.