Disorderly Conduct is one of the most common criminal charges. Learn how we can help.
Every state has their own laws regarding disorderly conduct, or “disturbing the peace.” Rhode Island is one state that does not take these acts lightly and has very clear penalties for such public disturbances. Any violations considered to be disorderly conduct are deemed to be a petty misdemeanor.
It's important that you don't take these charges lightly, as they will go on your criminal record for all the public to see. It could hurt your changes at securing employment and can even land you in jail. If you or someone you know is facing one of these charges, you need to contact an experienced Rhode Island disorderly conduct lawyer to help with your case. You can learn more about what you're facing with the information we have outlined below.
Rhode Island Disorderly Conduct Law
There are a variety of acts that the state of Rhode Island considers to be disorderly conduct. Engaging in fighting or threatening behavior in public is one of the most common offenses for disorderly conduct or “disturbing the peace.” You can also violate the disorderly conduct laws by making loud or excessive noises in public places or near a private residence that is not your own, as it's considered disruptive to those nearby.
If you are found to be obstructing any kind of public pathway such as a street, sidewalk, railway, building entrance, stairway, hallway, elevator, or another else of that nature, you can be charged. if you speak offensive language to another person that could potentially provoke a violent reaction while in a public place, you may also receive a disorderly conduct charge. In some cases, you may even be charged for using profanity in public!
Disturbing a town meeting, a religious service, the funeral or memorial service of a military member, or any other lawful meeting can also land you a disorderly conduct charge. “Peeping Tom” behavior such as peering into someone's private residence, a public restroom or a dressing room is also considered disorderly conduct and could leave you to face severe penalties that could be damaging to your future.
For specific information regarding Rhode Island's stance on disorderly conduct, please read the Disorderly Conduct Law here.
Rhode Island Disorderly Conduct Charges
If you're facing disorderly conduct charges in the state of Rhode Island, you are likely wondering which penalties you face. The punishment you receive will largely depend on the act committed and your prior criminal history. If you are found guilty, there are a number of things that may happen.
Disorderly conduct carries a maximum sentence of six months imprisonment and may require you to pay a $500 fine. In most cases, the act will not warrant the maximum penalty. It just depends on the circumstances surrounding your case and whether or not you have an experienced lawyer by your side. Some disorderly conduct charges result in various types of counseling, depending on the nature of the case. You may be required to complete substance abuse classes, mental health classes, or anger management. Other penalties include community service and court costs.
You'll also be left with a charge on your criminal record, as it is deemed a petty misdemeanor. This is another reason to not take these charges lightly. You need to be proactive about getting a lawyer on your case to help minimize the impact these charges could have on your personal life, your career, and even your freedom.
We Can Help
If you or someone you know is facing a disorderly conduct charge in Rhode Island, you need to consult with an attorney to help you with your case. You don't need to accept the charges and potential penalties you're facing. Instead, you should take these charges seriously and consult with someone who knows what you are up against. An experienced lawyer can put together an aggressive defense to reduce the penalties you face or potentially get the charges dismissed altogether, thus easing the impact it will have on your life.
We have years of experience dealing with disorderly conduct charges in Rhode Island. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can get involve and start collecting evidence for your defense.