Connecticut Disorderly Conduct Penalties
The maximum penalties for a Connecticut disorderly conduct conviction vary according to the circumstances surrounding the crime, but in any case a dedicated attorney can work to reduce or mitigate the severity of them.
Is Disorderly Conduct a Misdemeanor?
In the scope of Connecticut law, offenses may be penalized as either infractions, misdemeanors, or felonies. Disorderly conduct is considered a Class C misdemeanor according to Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §53a-182. This puts the offense right in the middle of the misdemeanor category for sentencing purposes.
Can I go to Jail for Disorderly Conduct?
The potential penalties in Connecticut for disorderly conduct includes the potential for incarceration. C.G.S. §53a-36 specifies that those found guilty of a Class C misdemeanor may be imprisoned for up to three months.
If you have no prior convictions, the court could impose an alternative penalty such as probation, avoiding the possibility of you having to go to jail. However, a number of factors such as additional charges, prior offenses, and the specifics of the charge at hand may make it more likely that you will be imprisoned.
Are There Fines for Disorderly Conduct?
Connecticut criminal laws provide fines as a potential penalty for virtually all crimes, including disorderly conduct. A court may levy a fine in lieu of incarceration or in addition to a term of imprisonment or probation.
Because the offense is a Class C misdemeanor, disorderly conduct penalties in Connecticut include a fine of up to $500. Courts may also impose other costly consequences such as costs, fees, and program requirements.
Are There Additional Consequences for a Disorderly Conduct Conviction?
A conviction for disorderly conduct may have many other potentially adverse effects outside of jailtime or fines. If a disorderly conduct charge stems from a situation where domestic violence is alleged, then the person accused is likely to be subjected to a criminal protective order or civil restraining order. Violation of any part of such an order, even if unintentional, becomes a separate felony offense. Accordingly, it is crucial to understand the terms of any protective or restraining orders that may be in place.
Someone found guilty of disorderly conduct will have a criminal conviction on their record that is visible to future employers, neighbors, colleagues, and anyone else who conducts a background search. At the very least, the record can cause embarrassment for years, but a conviction may also cause employers, landlords, and others to think twice before offering an opportunity.
Help with Connecticut Disorderly Conduct Penalties
To fight the charges you are facing, it is important to adopt a serious defense strategy and take advantage of all potential avenues for achieving a dismissal or other positive outcome. A dedicated criminal defense lawyer can work to reduce or eliminate Connecticut disorderly conduct penalties. Contact Mark Sherman Law today for legal help.