Common Disorderly Conduct Charges in Westport
Understanding common disorderly conduct charges in Westport can be crucial to effectively contesting criminal allegations of this nature and securing a positive result in criminal and/or family court. Once retained, an experienced criminal defense attorney could explain how state authorities generally define and prosecute this offense in as much detail as necessary during a private consultation.
What Specific Actions Constitute Disorderly Conduct?
According to Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §53a-182, there are seven different actions that, if a person engages in them with the intent to cause annoyance or alarm or to such a reckless degree that it has the same ultimate effect, would be considered a class C misdemeanor. Six types of disorderly conduct charges in Westport have specific definitions under this statute:
Engaging in Violent or Tumultuous Behavior
A person who gets into a physical fight in public and/or threatens someone else with physical violence may be charged with disorderly conduct. In some circumstances, this kind of behavior may be prosecuted as Second-Degree Breach of the Peace under C.G.S. §53a-181, a class B misdemeanor.
Making Unreasonable Noise
Even if they are inside a private residence, a person who recklessly or intentionally causes alarm to other people nearby by making too much noise may end up facing a disorderly conduct charge.
Disturbing a Lawful Assembly
Anyone who, without legal authority to do so, interferes with a lawful public meeting or assembly of any number of people has committed a disorderly conduct offense under Connecticut law.
Obstructing Traffic
Whether it entails pedestrian or vehicle traffic, anyone who obstructs normal travel along a public road or sidewalk can wind-up dealing with this type of offense.
Not Dispersing Based on a Reasonable Official Request
When requested or ordered to disperse by law enforcement or someone with similar authority, anyone gathered in public with other people must disperse, or else they may be charged with disorderly conduct.
Being a “Peeping Tom”
As per C.G.S. §53a-182(a)(7), it is unlawful to observe someone inside a dwelling intentionally and for longer than a cursory amount of time if that person does not know about or consent to the observation and has a reasonable expectation of privacy under the circumstances.
Other Circumstances That Could Lead to Disorderly Conduct Charges
By the letter of the law, anyone who engages in “offensive or disorderly conduct” which “annoys or interferes with” someone else has also engaged in criminal disorderly conduct. This is a notably vague definition that police officers may interpret various ways in different situations. Support from legal counsel can be especially important when contesting a Westport disorderly conduct charge of this nature.
Learn More About Common Westport Disorderly Conduct Charges from an Attorney
Common though they may be, disorderly conduct charges in Westport are serious matters that can have substantial repercussions. Even if your criminal case ends with an acquittal, a charge of this nature described as domestic violence could allow for sanctions in family court that may include a loss of visitation or custody rights over your children.
Having knowledgeable legal representation is often vital to mitigating the potential consequences of such an accusation. Click here to read our over 300 certified client reviews on Avvo.com, and call Mark Sherman Law today to schedule your confidential consultation.