Disorderly Conduct Attorney in Scranton, Pennsylvania

Disorderly Conduct charges are intended to regulate people’s behavior towards each other in public spaces. The crime is meant to criminalize behavior that aims to disrupt the peace of the community or cause public inconvenience but is not designed to outlaw conduct that is merely irritating for some. In Pennsylvania, the criminal statute defines disorderly conduct as:

• Engaging in fighting or violent behavior, or issuing threats;

• Making loud, unreasonable noise;

• Using obscene language or gestures;

• Creating a dangerous or physically offensive situation by behavior that does not serve any legitimate purpose.

Disorderly Conduct charges are usually summary offenses under Pennsylvania law. However, if the defendant intended to cause substantial harm or inconvenience, or if he or she continues to commit disorderly conduct after a reasonable warning, the crime is considered a third-degree misdemeanor under Pennsylvania law. Summary offenses are punishable by up to ninety days of jail time and a fine not exceeding $300. If the offense is a third-degree misdemeanor, then it is punishable by up to one year of incarceration and a fine up to $2,500.

You should not ignore a Disorderly Conduct charge, as being convicted can still severely impact your life. We can provide effective criminal defense services for disorderly conduct charges in the Northeastern Pennsylvania area. We at the Peters Law Firm can be your advocate in the Northeastern Pennsylvania area, the Scranton area, and the Tunkhannock and Wyoming Counties. Reach out today.