Disorderly conduct is one of the most common offenses in Reno and throughout Nevada since the state is littered with casinos, bars, clubs, pool parties, and other nightlife activities. Although you are allowed to walk on the streets with a drink in your hand and public intoxication alone is not a crime, being drunk in public can result in a disorderly conduct charge.

Disorderly conduct is a “catch-all” offense that comprises of any type of disruptive and loud behavior, such as the following:

1. Fighting another person or challenging someone else to a fight

2. Inciting a disturbance

3. Committing a breach of peace

4. Annoying, harassing, accosting, or interfering with someone else in a disruptive manner

Disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor, which carries a maximum jail term of six months and/or a fine of up to $1,000. First-time offenders often do not face jail time and have an opportunity to have their entire charge dismissed if they pay a fine and/or complete community service. However, if you miss any court hearing or if this is a repeat offense, the court may impose a jail sentence.

On the other hand, if you have been involved in a fight and were originally charged with misdemeanor assault or battery offense, it is possible to have either charge reduced to disorderly conduct. Not only is disorderly conduct not as frowned upon as violent crimes such as assault and battery, but this type of conviction can also be sealed from your criminal record in one year after you complete all the terms of your sentence, rather than two years for assault and battery convictions.

Here are several defenses to disorderly conduct charges:

1. You were falsely accused of disorderly conduct

2. Your actions were protected by the First Amendment

3. Your actions did not rise to the threshold for breaching the peace

4. Law enforcement officials misidentified you as the culprit of the offense

If you have been accused of a violent crime in Reno, contact the Law Offices of Kenneth A. Stover today for a free case review. Get a skilled lawyer with more than 25 years of experience!