What Should I Do if I’m Charged with Disorderly Conduct in New Jersey?

If you are charged with disorderly conduct in New Jersey it is crucial that you understand the charges you are facing, the potential consequences, and the steps you can take to ensure your rights are protected. Consult with an experienced Bergen County criminal defense lawyer for more information and skilled representation during your case

What is Disorderly Conduct?

New Jersey state law defines disorderly conduct as “improper behavior” or “offensive language.” A person can be found guilty of disorderly conduct if they:

• Engage in fighting, threatening, violent, or tumultuous behavior with the purpose of causing public inconvenience, annoyance, alarm, or recklessly creating a risk
• Create a hazardous or dangerous condition by any act that serves no legitimate purpose with the purpose of causing public inconvenience, annoyance, alarm, or recklessly creating a risk
• Use unreasonably loud and offensively coarse language in a public place with the purpose of offending the sensibilities of a hearer or in reckless disregard of the probability of doing so

If you are found to have engaged in any of the above-described activities, you could be arrested and convicted of disorderly conduct.

What Should I Do if I’m Charged with Disorderly Conduct in NJ?

If you were arrested for disorderly conduct the first thing you should do is try to remain calm. The charges being brought against you originated from aggressive or violent behavior so avoid continuing the same conduct and do not start arguments or fights.

You should contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Lawyers are equipped with the knowledge and understanding of the law necessary to evaluate your situation and advise you on the next steps. They can help protect your rights and ensure you do not incriminate yourself.

Next, with the help of your lawyer, begin collecting evidence to build an effective defensive strategy. You could argue that you were exercising your right to freedom of speech, that your actions did not disturb the public, that you had a valid reason to conduct your behavior, etc.

Your lawyer may also be able to strike a plea bargain with the prosecution or have the case carried for a period of time while you complete counseling sessions.

What Are the Penalties for Disorderly Conduct?

Disorderly conduct is generally classified as a disorderly persons offense, which is similar to a misdemeanor in other states. It is not as serious as a felony (indictable crime in NJ) but it is still a criminal charge and can carry significant penalties.

A conviction of disorderly conduct in New Jersey can result in the following consequences.

• Up to 6 months in jail
• Fines of up to $1,000
• Probation
• Community service
• Driver’s license suspension

The above and more penalties can be imposed when you are convicted of disorderly conduct in NJ. Any criminal offense should be taken seriously. It is important that you take proper steps to protect your rights during your case. Reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney today for more information and skilled representation.