Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in Clearwater: How to Protect Your Record

A disorderly conduct charge in Clearwater may seem minor compared with more serious crimes, but a conviction can still have consequences. Alongside fines and a potential jail sentence, it could leave you with a permanent criminal record.

If you are facing these types of charges in Pinellas County, get legal help right away. Our experienced Clearwater criminal defense attorney explains penalties and how to protect yourself from a conviction.

What Are the Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in Clearwater?

Disorderly conduct is also called “breach of the peace” in Florida. It involves making loud or disruptive noises, using profane language in public places, disrupting traffic on local streets, getting into verbal fights and physical brawls, or encouraging others to engage in riots or violence.

These charges may seem minor and are common among high school or college students, vacationers, and those who have had a bit too much to drink. However, disorderly conduct is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor under Florida Statutes Section 877.03. Potential penalties include:

• Up to 60 days in jail.
• Fines of up to $500 or more, plus court costs and other expenses.
• Mandatory community service and anger management or alcohol/drug education classes.
• A permanent criminal record that can impact your ability to get a job, housing, or an education.

If you are accused of disorderly conduct in Clearwater, don’t downplay the situation. While the penalties can be inconvenient, a permanent criminal record can cause real damage.

Defending Yourself Against Disorderly Conduct Charges in Pinellas County

A conviction for disorderly conduct in Clearwater results in a permanent criminal record, which can easily cost you your job, your reputation in the community, and even your rights in child custody or other family court matters. To protect yourself in the Pinellas County Criminal Court, you need a strong legal defense.

Our experienced Clearwater criminal defense attorney is here to help. We can review what happened, the circumstances surrounding your arrest, and negotiate with police and prosecutors to get your charges dropped or reduced. Possible defenses include:

• Mistaken identity, which may require disproving statements from witnesses.
• Lack of intent, meaning you didn’t mean to breach the peace.
• Lack of a non-law-enforcement witness, meaning that someone other than a police officer must have seen you commit the crime.
• Self-defense, invoking Florida’s Stand Your Ground Law.

Steps you can take to protect yourself against a conviction include identifying witnesses who may be able to support your version of events, turning over to your attorney any videos, photos, or other evidence, and not discussing what happened with anyone or posting about it on social media.

Facing a Disorderly Conduct Charge? Request a Consultation With Our Experienced Clearwater Criminal Defense Attorney

While you may be tempted to downplay disorderly conduct charges in Pinellas County, keep in mind that a conviction carries serious penalties. To protect yourself, contact The Reep Law Firm.

Our experienced Clearwater criminal defense attorney can review the details surrounding your arrest, explain your options, and fight to prevent a permanent criminal record. Request a consultation today.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0800-0899/0877/Sections/0877.03.html

mypinellasclerk.gov/Home/Criminal-Juvenile