It would be a mistake not to take a disorderly conduct charge seriously. What most people think of as a minor “disturbing the peace” charge can actually result in serious legal and lifelong consequences. At AZ Defenders, our skilled team of attorneys are ready to help you fight a Tempe disorderly conduct charge. Let us open an in-depth investigation of the case so we can formulate an ideal defense strategy on your behalf.

Why Trust AZ Defenders With a Disorderly Conduct Charge?

When you turn to AZ Defenders for a disorderly conduct charge in Tempe, you can count on:

  • Having a team with more than 20 years of combined legal experience by your side.
  • Your attorney completely focusing on you and your needs as they formulate a defense of your case.
  • Your case being handled by a well-respected law firm with a track record of successful verdicts.

What Are The Consequences For Disorderly Conduct In Tempe?

Disorderly conduct is defined in law under Arizona Revised Statues § 13-2904. Most people will understand this charge as “disturbing the peace.” This crime can be committed in a variety of ways, including (from Arizona code):

  • Engaging in fighting, violent, or seriously disruptive behavior
  • Making unreasonable noise
  • Using abusive or offensive language or gestures to any person present in a manner likely to provoke immediate physical retaliation by such person
  • Making protracted commotion, utterance, or display with the intent to prevent the transaction of the business of a lawful meeting, gathering or procession
  • Refusing to obey a lawful order to disperse issued to maintain public safety in dangerous proximity to a fire, a hazard, or any other emergency
  • The reckless handling, display, or discharges of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument

When you look at the ways that disorderly conduct is defined under Arizona law, it is easy to see how easily the charge can be applied. This law is broad, and law enforcement authorities commonly inappropriately charge people with disorderly conduct.

Most forms of disorderly conduct will be charged as Class 1 Misdemeanors that can carry a jail sentence of 6 months, a fine of $2,500, and up to 3 years of probation.

If the crime was committed and a weapon was involved, a more serious Class 6 Felony charge will apply and could result in up to 2 years in prison.

What Will An Attorney Do To Help?

If you are battling a disorderly conduct charge, a Tempe criminal lawyer will be the best way for you to get these charges reduced or dismissed. There are several defenses that your attorney may employ depending on the facts of your case. This could include, but is not limited to, the following:

  • That you did not actually commit the crime
  • The evidence does not support the charges filed
  • There was a violation in police procedure
  • The charges inhibited your right to free speech

In many cases, these charges are applied by police because they are simply annoyed with the person they are dealing with, or they feel compelled to make an arrest even though they do not have the evidence to support a more serious charge.

Speak With a Trusted Tempe Disorderly Conduct Defense Lawyer Today

A disorderly conduct charge in Mesa, Arizona must be taken seriously. If you or a loved one are facing a disorderly conduct or disturbing the peace charge, contact the team at AZ Defenders today. We fully dedicate ourselves to every client and will conduct a thorough investigation into the charges against you. We understand that conviction can have serious consequences on your life. Let our Tempe disorderly conduct attorneys get to work on your behalf today. You can contact us for a free consultation of your case by clicking here or calling (480) 456-6400.