Facing Disorderly Conduct Charges in New York? We Can Help.

Getting charged with disorderly conduct in New York can be a bewildering and frustrating experience. One minute you’re going about your day, and the next, you’re facing a criminal charge that could impact your future. It’s a common charge, but that doesn’t make it any less serious. The Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. understands the stress and uncertainty you’re likely feeling, and we’re here to provide clarity and a path forward.

A disorderly conduct charge in New York, often stemming from situations like arguments, public disturbances, or even minor altercations, can lead to fines, a criminal record, and even jail time. But here’s the blunt truth: being charged isn’t the same as being convicted. With the right legal approach, you have options to challenge the charges and protect your rights. Our knowledgeable team is ready to offer a confidential case review.

What Exactly is Disorderly Conduct in New York?

In New York, disorderly conduct is primarily defined under Penal Law § 240.20. It’s classified as a violation, which means it’s not a crime, but it’s still a serious offense that can appear on your record and lead to significant consequences. The law broadly covers actions intended to cause public inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm, or recklessly creating a risk thereof. This can include a wide range of behaviors.

Common Scenarios Leading to Disorderly Conduct Charges in NYC

You might be surprised by how often and in what situations this charge is applied. It’s not always about a wild street brawl. Sometimes, it’s about a misunderstanding or an overzealous application of the law. Here are some typical situations that can lead to a disorderly conduct charge:

• Fighting or Violent Behavior: Engaging in a physical altercation in a public place.
• Making Unreasonable Noise: Creating excessive noise that disturbs the peace. This could be anything from shouting loudly to playing music too loud in a public space.
• Using Abusive or Obscene Language/Gestures: Directing offensive words or actions at someone in a public setting.
• Disturbing a Lawful Assembly or Meeting: Disrupting public gatherings or events.
• Obstructing Vehicular or Pedestrian Traffic: Blocking sidewalks, streets, or public transportation. This could be as simple as standing in a doorway or blocking a subway car.
• Loitering or Refusing to Disperse: Lingering in an area where ordered to move by police, or gathering in a way that obstructs public passage.
• Creating a Hazardous or Physically Offensive Condition: Any action that creates a dangerous or clearly offensive situation without a legitimate purpose.

It’s important to remember that the prosecutor must prove you intended to cause public inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm, or that you recklessly created a risk of doing so. This ‘intent’ element is often where a strong defense can be built.

Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in New York

Even though disorderly conduct is a violation and not a crime, the penalties can still be quite impactful. Don’t underestimate the potential consequences:

• Jail Time: Up to 15 days in a local jail. While often avoided for first-time offenders, it’s a possibility, especially if other charges are involved or the conduct was particularly egregious.
• Fines: Up to $250, plus mandatory surcharges. These can add up quickly.
• Surcharges: An additional mandatory fee, typically around $125-$175, depending on the court.
• Criminal Record: Although it’s a violation, it will still appear on your criminal record. This can show up on background checks, potentially affecting job opportunities, housing applications, and even professional licenses.

Imagine explaining a disorderly conduct conviction on a job application. It’s a burden you don’t want to carry. That’s why fighting these charges effectively is so crucial.

The Emotional Toll: Beyond Legal Penalties

Beyond the legal and financial penalties, facing a charge like this can cause significant emotional distress. The fear of the unknown, the stigma, and the disruption to your daily life can be overwhelming. We get it. Counsel at Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. approaches each case with empathy, offering direct and reassuring guidance through this challenging time.

Can a Disorderly Conduct Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed?

Absolutely. Many disorderly conduct cases are resolved favorably through skilled legal representation. There are several strategies an experienced attorney can employ to challenge the charge or negotiate a better outcome:

• Challenging the ‘Intent’ Element: Did you genuinely intend to cause public inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm? Often, it’s a subjective interpretation.
• Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. If there are inconsistencies in witness statements, faulty police procedure, or insufficient evidence, the case can be weakened.
• First Amendment Rights: Sometimes, actions mistaken for disorderly conduct are actually protected free speech.
• Self-Defense: If your actions were in response to a threat, you might have a self-defense claim.
• Negotiation for Dismissal or Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD): An ACD is a common outcome where the case is dismissed after a set period (usually six months), provided you stay out of trouble. This is an excellent result as it means no criminal record.
• Plea Bargaining to a Non-Criminal Violation: If dismissal isn’t possible, negotiating down to a lesser, non-criminal violation, such as “loitering” or a local ordinance violation, can help avoid the harsher consequences of a disorderly conduct record.

When you’re facing a disorderly conduct charge in New York, the distinction between a violation and a crime, or a dismissal versus a conviction, can make all the difference in your life. That’s why having seasoned legal counsel on your side is not just helpful, it’s often essential. Mr. Sris, our founder, has handled challenging legal matters since 1997. His approach is direct and geared towards securing the best possible outcome for you.

Real-Talk Aside: Don’t Go It Alone

Many people think a disorderly conduct charge is minor and can be handled without a lawyer. This is a common mistake. The nuances of New York law, court procedures, and negotiation tactics are complex. An attorney acts as your advocate, ensuring your rights are protected and you don’t inadvertently say or do anything that harms your case. My focus since founding the firm in 1997 has always been directed towards personally handling the most challenging and complex criminal and family law matters our clients face, Mr. Sris often remarks. This level of dedication applies to all our clients, no matter the specific charge.

Why Choose Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. for Your New York Disorderly Conduct Defense?

Navigating the legal system in New York when you’re accused of disorderly conduct can feel overwhelming. You need a legal team that is not only knowledgeable but also genuinely cares about your outcome. Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. provides that blend of experience and empathy.

• Experienced Defense: Our attorneys have a deep understanding of New York’s Penal Law § 240.20 and the various ways it’s prosecuted and defended across the state. We know the courts and the strategies that work.
• Strategic Approach: We don’t just react; we plan. From the moment you engage us, we’re building a defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your case, whether it involves challenging evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, or preparing for trial.
• Client-Centered Representation: You’re not just a case number to us. We provide clear communication, answer your questions, and keep you informed every step of the way. We understand the personal impact of these charges.
• Commitment to Your Future: Our goal is always to achieve the best possible outcome for you, whether that’s a dismissal, a reduction of charges, or minimizing the impact on your record and life. We want to help you move forward.

Mr. Sris has built a firm that prioritizes diligent advocacy. I find my background in accounting and information management provides a unique advantage when handling the intricate financial and technological aspects inherent in many modern legal cases, he explains, showcasing a meticulous approach that extends to analyzing all aspects of a legal matter, even seemingly minor ones like disorderly conduct. This detailed attention can uncover crucial defense points.

Case Results: Demonstrating Our Approach

While past results do not predict future outcomes, we believe they reflect our commitment to our clients. Here are a few examples of how we’ve helped clients facing similar challenges:

• Client charged with public intoxication and disorderly conduct in NYC. Result: Charges reduced to a violation, small fine.
• Accused of disturbing the peace and disorderly conduct in Buffalo, NY. Result: Case dismissed after negotiation.
• Disorderly conduct citation near Times Square. Result: Attorney secured a plea to a non-criminal violation.
• Resisting arrest and disorderly conduct in Rochester. Result: Disorderly conduct charge dropped.

These examples illustrate the power of having a skilled defense. We don’t promise outcomes, but we promise dedicated representation.

Your Next Steps: Get a Confidential Case Review

If you’ve been charged with disorderly conduct in New York, the most important thing you can do is act quickly. Don’t let the charge fester or try to handle it alone. Delaying can limit your options and weaken your defense.

Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. has locations in Buffalo. Our dedicated team is available to discuss your situation, explain your legal options, and begin building a strong defense strategy. We offer confidential case reviews to help you understand what you’re up against and how we can assist.

As someone deeply involved in the community, I believe it’s important to not only practice law but also to actively participate in shaping it, shares Mr. Sris. This philosophy underscores the firm’s commitment not just to individual clients, but to justice within the legal system as a whole. Let us put our experience to work for you.

Don’t face these charges alone. Contact Counsel at Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. today for a confidential case review and take the first step towards protecting your future.