When it comes to keeping the peace, Texas doesn’t mess around. Regardless of whether it’s a heated argument that went a bit too far or just being in the wrong place at the wrong time, you can be charged with disorderly conduct. This offense can result in serious consequences, including hefty fines and potential time behind bars, depending on the unique circumstances of the incident. Please continue reading to learn how disorderly conduct is defined in the Lone Star State, the penalties involved, and how our experienced Houston Criminal Defense Attorneys can help protect your future.
What is Disorderly Conduct?
Under Sec 42.01 of the Texas Penal Code, a person is guilty of disorderly conduct if they intentionally or knowingly disrupt public peace or threaten public safety through actions like fighting, using abusive language, unreasonable noise, or displaying a lethal weapon in public.
Disorderly conduct covers a wide array of actions, spanning from volatile public disturbances to specific acts deemed offensive or dangerous. Actions that can lead to a disorderly conduct charge in Texas include:
- Fighting in public
- Resorting to profanity in certain situations
- Making excessive noise
- Displaying a lethal weapon to incite fear
- The unathorized discharge of firearms within prohibited zones or sensitive vicinities
- Creating hazardous environments or physically offensive settings that threaten public well-being
What Are the Penalties for Disorderly Conduct?
The severity of the penalties you’ll face for disorderly conduct in Texas depends on the unique circumstances of the incident. Generally, these offenses are classified as Class C misdemeanors. This usually means you’re facing fines of up to $500, and for most of these offenses, you don’t have to worry about serving time behind bars. However, it’s important to bear in mind that even without jail time, it will still result in a criminal charge on your permanent record.
Nevertheless, things get a bit more complicated if a firearm is involved. In these cases, you face enhanced penalties for a Class B misdemeanor, which could include being charged with a higher-level misdemeanor. This means there is a possibility of serving jail time and being subject to larger fines, depending on whether the deadly weapon was used or just displayed during the incident. It should be noted that jail time is much more likely if the case is aggravated or if it’s a repeat offense. Further penalties may apply depending on the specific facts of the case.
Given the stakes, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of a determined attorney at The Gonzalez Law Group. Our legal team is prepared to assist you in making informed decisions and safeguarding your record. Connect with our firm today to schedule a consultation.