Disorderly Conduct, also referred to as “disturbing the peace” or “breaching the peace,” is a broadly applied crime that encompasses a wide range of minor offenses that are generally charged as misdemeanors. Aside from traffic violations, Disorderly Conduct is one of the least serious criminal offenses in California. A conviction for any of the crimes covered under the California Disorderly Conduct statute, however, can still result in jail time, a criminal record, and can later prevent you from getting a job or advanced education. If you have been charged with Disorderly Conduct in or around Los Angeles, call the criminal defense attorneys at Rodriguez, Lewis & Kahn to discuss your legal options.

CALIFORNIA LAW

Disorderly Conduct law is defined in California Penal Code Section 647 and covers a wide range of crimes, such as:

• Soliciting or engaging in lewd conduct in a public place
• Soliciting or engaging in prostitution (i.e., sex for money)
• Begging or soliciting alms
• Loitering around a public toilet for lewd activity
• Squatting - residing in a house or another place without the owner’s permission
• Public Intoxication
• Prowling -- standing or wandering around another person’s privately owned property without a lawful reason for doing so
• Window or electronic peeping.

PENALTIES AND PUNISHMENT

Disorderly Conduct offenses are prosecuted as misdemeanors. A conviction for Disorderly Conduct is punishable by up to 180 days in county jail. It is not likely that a first offense will result in jail time; but if the circumstances are serious and/or the defendant is a repeat offender, a Disorderly Conduct conviction can lead to county jail time and/or community labor. A knowledgeable and skilled criminal defense lawyer can focus the prosecutor’s attention on the factual weaknesses of the case in the hopes of reducing the charge or obtaining a dismissal.

LOS ANGELES DISORDERLY CONDUCT LAWYERS

Rodriguez, Lewis & Kahn have represented numerous clients facing Disorderly Conduct charges. We have aggressively safeguarded our clients’ legal rights and freedom by providing them with the most effective legal defense available. We aim to provide our clients with accurate information and facts, to communicate their options clearly, and to answer all of their questions. Our objective is to make the process less frustrating and straightforward. We believe our clients should be well informed and secure with the choices they make. Contact us to discuss your legal options.