Wilton Disorderly Conduct Penalties

No matter what your criminal history is, you have the right to legal representation if you are accused of disorderly conduct. A top lawyer could discuss the penalties associated with disorderly conduct in Wilton and work on your behalf to mitigate or avoid them in your case.

What Are the Criminal Consequences Associated with Disorderly Conduct?

Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) §53a-182 lists a number of different actions that could be considered “disorderly,” including fighting in public, failure to obey a police officer’s command to disperse, blocking traffic, disturbing a lawful assembly, and observing someone else while trespassing on their property. In general, though, any action a police officer considers inconveniencing, annoying, or alarming may result in a class C misdemeanor charge for disorderly conduct.

How Are Class C Misdemeanor Offenses Punished?

In Connecticut, class C misdemeanor offenses are punishable by a jail sentence up to three months in length. Often, first-time offenders are sentenced to probation instead of jail time upon conviction, but various factors—including previous convictions and other charges associated with the alleged disorderly conduct—may increase the penalties prosecutors seek for a disorderly conduct conviction in Wilton.

Depending on the circumstances, a person convicted of disorderly conduct in Wilton may also be required to pay a fine of up to $500. Convicted defendants may also be required to cover additional fees such as court costs, attorneys’ fees, and any expenses associated with diversionary programs a judge mandates they attend.

What Are the Penalties for Domestic Violence Disorderly Conduct?

Any instance of disorderly conduct that occurs in the accused party’s private residence and/or involves a household member, family member, or relationship ship may be classified as a domestic violence offense. In almost every case, this kind of designation will lead to a protective or restraining order being established against the accused party, any violation of which would be a felony offense.

Will DCF Become Involved?

Anyone accused of domestic violence disorderly conduct will typically be subject to an investigation by the Department of Children and Families (DCF).

Representation from a skilled attorney is especially crucial to mitigating the penalties associated with domestic violence disorderly conduct. A lawyer can negotiate mandated participation in Connecticut’s Family Violence Education Program as an alternative to criminal penalties, but this is not available to every defendant and may be a difficult option for individuals to pursue on their own.

Mitigating Disorderly Conduct Penalties with a Wilton Attorney’s Help

Successfully contesting disorderly conduct penalties is far from a guaranteed prospect in Wilton but help from a qualified lawyer could maximize your chances of a positive outcome. Read our certified five-star reviews on Avvo.com and call Mark Sherman Law to get started on your case.