Disorderly Conduct in the City of Linden
Did you get into a fight? Were you involved in an argument with your spouse in public? Did you get caught going a little too far with a prank? Those and many other situations may lead to a disorderly conduct charge in Linden and elsewhere in Union County. While you may think that a disorderly conduct charge is minor and does not require a lawyer, you have a much higher probability of avoiding a record and penalties for a Linden disorderly conduct offense with proper legal representation. That is the reason that it would be wise to retain an experienced defense attorney for the defense of allegations that you were acting disorderly in Linden New Jersey. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall have extensive experience in Linden Municipal Court, and they can help you find the best strategy to maximize the chance that a charge be downgraded or even dismissed. The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall is a just a phone call away, at 908-272-1700. Attorneys are available for a free initial consultation. Call anytime and get the legal assistance you need.
Disorderly Conduct Offense in Linden New Jersey
The offense of Disorderly Conduct is set forth at N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2. The law defines disorderly conduct in terms of improper behavior and offensive language in public. With regard to a violation of 2C:33-2 based on improper behavior, the Linden municipal court prosecutor must be proven that the accused:
- Engaged in fighting or threatening, or engaged in violent or tumultuous behavior; or
- Created a hazardous or physically dangerous condition by any act which serves no legitimate purpose for the person, and
Did either 1 or 2 with the purpose to cause public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm, or recklessly create a risk thereof.
With regard to disorderly conduct resulting from use of offensive language, the state must prove, beyond reasonable doubt, that the actor:
- Was in a public place
- Possessed a purpose to offend the sensibilities of the hearer, or recklessly disregard the chance of doing so; and
- Spoke in a manner that was unreasonably loud and offensively coarse, or used abusive language.
Penalties for Disorderly Conduct. Disorderly Conduct is a petty disorderly persons offense. That means that the penalty could be up to 30 days in jail and up to a $500 fine, with possible community service and/or probation.
Linden Disorderly Conduct Defense Lawyer
If you are facing disorderly conduct charges, you need legal representation from a skilled defense lawyer. Although you may think disorderly conduct is a relatively minor offense, it could lead to financial penalties and a criminal record. In order to minimize exposure to such consequences, call the attorneys at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall. Jonathan F. Marshall and the lawyers on his team, many of whom are former prosecutors, have over 100 years of combined experience defending clients in Linden Municipal Court and Union County Superior Court. An attorney at the firm will take the time to conduct a comprehensive initial consultation that will include insight as to how we can help you best defend the charge. Contact us at your earliest convenience at 908-272-1700 for immediate assistance.
