Disorderly Conduct In New York Lawyer | SRIS, P.C.
Disorderly Conduct In New York Lawyer — What Are Your Defenses?
Disorderly Conduct In New York is a violation or misdemeanor under New York Penal Law § 240.20, often charged after public disputes. A conviction can mean up to 15 days in jail for a violation or one year for a misdemeanor, plus a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
What Is Disorderly Conduct Under New York Law?
Disorderly Conduct In New York is defined by New York Penal Law § 240.20. It is a broad charge used when a person’s behavior is considered disruptive to public order. The statute lists seven specific actions that can lead to a charge, including engaging in fighting or violent behavior, making unreasonable noise, using abusive language in a public place with intent to provoke a reaction, disturbing a lawful assembly, obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic, creating a hazardous condition by an act that serves no legitimate purpose, or refusing to comply with a lawful order to disperse. Because the definition is subjective, these charges are often contested. An experienced Disorderly Conduct In New York Attorney can challenge the officer’s interpretation of events.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to New York Penal Law § 240.20 (official New York State Senate site). For local court procedures, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
Handling a Disorderly Conduct Case in Manhattan
In New York County (Manhattan), Disorderly Conduct charges are typically handled in Criminal Court at 100 Centre Street. Prosecutors may offer an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) for first-time offenses, which results in dismissal after six months with no new arrests. The court’s high volume means early intervention by counsel is critical to seek a favorable disposition before your first appearance.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a desk appearance ticket.
- Your attorney will review the accusatory instrument for legal sufficiency.
- We will negotiate with the District Attorney’s office for a dismissal or reduction.
- If necessary, we will prepare for a hearing or trial to challenge the evidence.
Potential Penalties for Disorderly Conduct
In New York County, Disorderly Conduct can be charged as a violation or a Class A misdemeanor, carrying penalties from fines to jail time.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disorderly Conduct (Typical) | Violation | Up to 15 days | Up to $250 | Permanent criminal record | Possible immigration consequences |
| Disorderly Conduct (Aggravated) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | Permanent criminal record | Professional license issues |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our Disorderly Conduct In New York Law Firm approach is built on a deep understanding of New York’s penal law and local court practices. We focus on protecting your record and future.
Our Approach to Disorderly Conduct Cases
We actively defend clients against Disorderly Conduct In New York charges. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our strategy often involves challenging the subjective nature of the charge, negotiating for dismissals like ACDs, or moving to dismiss legally insufficient complaints.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Disorderly Conduct Lawyer Near New York County (Manhattan)
Our New York location serves clients at courts throughout Manhattan. We are accessible from all subway lines, the FDR Drive, and West Side Highway. We serve neighborhoods including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is disorderly conduct a crime in New York?
It depends. Disorderly Conduct is typically a non-criminal violation, but it can be charged as a Class A misdemeanor in more serious cases. Both levels result in a permanent record.
Can I get a disorderly conduct charge dismissed?
Yes, dismissals are common. For first-time offenses, an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is often available. An attorney can also file a motion to dismiss if the charging papers are legally insufficient.
Do I need a lawyer for a disorderly conduct ticket?
Yes. While it is a lower-level offense, a conviction creates a permanent public record that can affect employment, housing, and immigration status. A lawyer can work to avoid this outcome.
What is the penalty for disorderly conduct?
As a violation, the maximum penalty is 15 days in jail and a $250 fine. As a Class A misdemeanor, it carries up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
How can a Disorderly Conduct In New York Attorney help me?
An attorney can negotiate for a dismissal, challenge the factual basis of the charge, represent you at hearings, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process to achieve the best possible result.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing criminal charges in New York, learn more about your options from a New York Criminal Defense Lawyer. For defense in nearby areas, see our pages for Kings County (Brooklyn) and Queens County (Queens). For other legal needs in Manhattan, consider a Family Law Lawyer.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.