Tampa Disorderly Conduct Lawyer

Tampa Disorderly Conduct Attorney

Tampa is always bumping with exciting things to do. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a famous Cuban sandwich or the thriving nightlife downtown or in the Channelside districts, rowdy fun can easily be misinterpreted by others. If you’ve been accused of disorderly conduct, you need a Tampa disorderly conduct lawyer to help fight the charges.

Hire a Disorderly Conduct Lawyer

When you’ve been accused of disorderly conduct, it can be overwhelming to prove your innocence. At Jeff Marshall Law, we’re ready to fight alongside you to secure your freedom against unlawful charges. We live by the motto “Never Surrender,” and that is exactly what we do. With decades of experience in negotiations and courtroom battles, you should hire a disorderly conduct lawyer at Jeff Marshall Law.

Disorderly Conduct in Florida

Defined under Florida Statute 877.03, disorderly conduct, also known as disturbing the peace, is the intentional act of corrupting public morals or causing outrage to public decency. Actions that can be described as disorderly conduct are subjective but usually include fighting, unreasonable noise, obstructing walkways or other pathways, offensive language or gestures, public intoxication, and loitering.

To be considered disorderly conduct, these actions must be committed in a public area and involve members of the public. A member of the public must lodge a formal complaint about the behavior in question. A complaint cannot be initiated by a police officer, as they are not considered a member of the public in this instance.

For 2024, the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer provides information on disorderly conduct arrests in Florida. There were 2,612 total arrests for disorderly conduct, of which 74% were male, 60% were white, and 39% were African American.

Overall, individuals arrested for disorderly conduct in Florida were predominantly white males between the ages of 25 and 44.

Disorderly Conduct Penalties

Disorderly conduct is considered a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida. Possible punishments are covered under Florida Statutes 775.082 and 775.083, which include:

• A maximum of 60 days’ imprisonment
• Fines of up to $500
• A permanent criminal record

A disorderly conduct charge might not seem serious, considering it is a second-degree misdemeanor, but having the charge on your record can have lasting consequences. In addition to the possible jail time and fines, a criminal record can prevent you from gaining employment in certain fields, impact your ability to gain or renew professional licenses, limit your ability to rent in certain complexes, and affect college admissions or financial aid opportunities.

Defending a Disorderly Conduct Case

Given the potential consequences based on disorderly conduct laws, it’s important to take the appropriate actions after being charged. In addition to seeking a qualified Tampa disorderly conduct attorney, you should:

• Document the incident. This includes everything you remember, any potential witnesses, any interaction with law enforcement, and any unusual environmental factors.
• Preserve evidence. Evidence could include photos or video of the alleged disorderly conduct, clothing, or other tangible items that may have been affected, and any digital evidence that supports your version of the incident.
• Be honest with your attorney. Explain everything as thoroughly as possible. An open, honest line of communication with your Tampa criminal defense attorney can help determine the facts of the case and the next steps.

Common Defenses

Given the subjectiveness of a disorderly conduct charge, a skilled disorderly conduct lawyer can recognize potential legal defenses that may lead to the charges being reduced or dropped. Potential defenses include:

• Lack of intent. To charge someone with disorderly conduct, the person had to knowingly and purposefully engage in the behaviors for the purpose of causing a disruption. The defense may argue that the behaviors were unintentionally disruptive or the result of a misunderstanding or misinterpretation.
• First Amendment rights. Some disorderly conduct charges can be defended as expressions of free speech, expression, or assembly.
• Subjective nature of disorderly conduct charges. A possible defense may look at the potential for biased perceptions and misinterpretations of others’ actions. Calling into question the credibility of witnesses or law enforcement officers may be a viable defense.

FAQs

Can You Get a Disorderly Conduct Charge Dropped in Florida?

It is possible to get a disorderly conduct charge dropped or dismissed in Florida. An experienced defense attorney can negotiate for a lesser charge to minimize potential penalties or utilize a successful defense strategy to have the charges dismissed entirely. The specific circumstances of the charge can affect potential strategies.

Is It Better to Plead Guilty to a Disorderly Conduct Charge in Tampa?

No, it is not better to plead guilty to a disorderly conduct charge in Tampa. When you plead guilty to a disorderly conduct charge, that charge becomes part of your criminal record and could have lasting consequences, such as employment or educational difficulties. You should consult with a disorderly conduct attorney before deciding to plead guilty.

How Much Does an Attorney Charge for a Disorderly Conduct Case in Florida?

The amount an attorney charges for a disorderly conduct case in Florida can vary depending on the complexities of your case. More complex cases require more time and effort, which can increase the fee. Some attorneys may require a retainer fee to be paid before any work is completed. The amount may also depend on whether the attorney charges a flat fee or an hourly rate.

Can a Disorderly Conduct Charge Prevent Me From Traveling Internationally?

Yes, having a disorderly conduct charge on your record could prevent you from traveling internationally. Even if you have a U.S. passport, individual countries can deny you access because of your criminal record. Entry restrictions could prevent you from being allowed into the country or obtaining a travel visa.

If I’m Arrested for Disorderly Conduct on Vacation, Can I Just Ignore the Charge?

If you are arrested for disorderly conduct while on vacation, you cannot ignore the charge. There are serious legal implications for ignoring a criminal charge. If you are released, you are notified if you are allowed to leave the state. It is still your responsibility to appear, or be represented by someone else, at all of your court dates. If you fail to appear in court, the judge can issue a warrant for your arrest.

Contact Jeff Marshall Law Today

Having a disorderly conduct charge on your record can have lasting effects on your life. Whether you’re a long-time resident, new arrival, or just visiting, having a Tampa disorderly conduct attorney you can trust makes a difference in your case. Contact Jeff Marshall Law today to get started on your defense.

Tampa Disorderly Conduct Lawyer Reviews