Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct is an offense that encompasses a wide range of disrupting activities. Anything that “disturbs the peace” of an area is considered to be a form of this offense. In California, disorderly conduct is considered a misdemeanor, and acts such as engaging in prostitution or being publicly intoxicated fall under its realm.
What Qualifies as Disorderly Conduct?
A wide range of activities are considered to be disorderly conduct in California. The following acts may be considered forms of this offense:
- Engaging in lewd conduct in a public area
- Soliciting or engaging in the act of prostitution
- Loitering
- Public intoxication
- Loitering or prowling on private property without any reasonable business there
- Peeping into the private residence or room of another party
- Taking shelter on a piece of property without the right to be there
What is the Punishment for Disorderly Conduct?
Disorderly conduct is considered as a misdemeanor, and is therefore punishable as such. Since this act is not a felony, the penalties for a disorderly conduct charge are not terribly severe. Typically, offenders will be sentenced with a short period of incarceration, which may be lengthened depending on the existence of previous charges. Suspension of civil privileges, such as a driver’s license, may also accompany the jail time.
Contact Us
If you have been charged with disorderly conduct, San Jose criminal defense lawyer Daniel Jensen, P.C. can help you. Please contact his law office today at 408-296-4100 to schedule an appointment.
