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A night out could lead to disorderly conduct charges

Many people like to go out with their friends on the weekend or for a special occasion just to let off some steam and have a good time. Though nights at home can certainly be enjoyable, you and many others want to get out of the house in order to relax.

Unfortunately, if your relaxation involves consuming alcohol and certain actions go a little too far, your relaxing night out could turn into a serious predicament. For instance, you could face accusations of disorderly conduct if people around feel that you are causing problems for others.

What counts as disorderly conduct?

When a person starts to get a bit too raucous while out having a good time, others may begin to fear that they will suffer harm because of the person’s instigating actions. Alaska laws regarding disorderly conduct, and those in other states, work to protect the welfare, health and safety of individuals in public places. As a result, you could face charges if authorities believe that you committed any of the following acts:

  • Recklessly creating a hazardous condition for no justifiable reason
  • Fighting or challenging another person to a fight, which could occur at either a private or public setting
  • Making unreasonably loud noise in efforts to bother others even after you have learned that the noise is bothersome
  • Refusing to comply with an order from a police officer to leave a location where you were not invited or to disperse after a crime
  • Intentionally exposing your buttocks to another person

Some of these actions could have extenuating circumstances associated with them. For instance, when it comes to fighting, you may not face a charge for disorderly conduct if you were acting in self-defense. Additionally, in regard to unreasonably loud noise, the time, place and purpose of the noise will go into consideration before charges come about.

What consequences could you face?

If a court convicts you of a charge for disorderly conduct, you could face up to $2,000 in fines, up to 90 days in jail or both. As a result, you undoubtedly want to do your best to defend against such allegations. Luckily, you have the ability to create and present a criminal defense against any criminal charge, and an attorney could help you determine your best options.