Disorderly Conduct

Experienced Boston Criminal Defense Attorney Committed to Aggressively Defending the Rights of Clients Across Massachusetts

A night out, a heated exchange, or even just being in the wrong place at the wrong time can lead to a disorderly conduct charge in Massachusetts. This broad offense covers a range of behaviors, from public disturbances to refusing to comply with police orders. While it may seem like a minor charge, a conviction can have lasting consequences, including fines, a criminal record, and even jail time in some cases. If you have been accused of disorderly conduct, you need to take the matter seriously. The Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy has spent more than 27 years defending individuals against these charges. As a dedicated Boston disorderly conduct lawyer with decades of experience helping clients beat these cases, Attorney Murphy is ready to help you fight back.

How Massachusetts Defines Disorderly Conduct

Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 272, Section 53, disorderly conduct is considered a crime when someone intentionally causes a public disturbance or engages in threatening, violent, or disruptive behavior. The law applies to actions that create a risk of harm or interfere with the peace and order of public spaces.

Disorderly conduct charges can arise from a variety of situations, including:

• Yelling, swearing, or causing a scene in public
• Public intoxication leading to disruptive behavior
• Engaging in fights or aggressive confrontations
• Blocking roadways, sidewalks, or public access points
• Refusing to follow police instructions in a public setting

Because the charge is subjective, it often depends on the discretion of the police officer making the arrest. This can lead to individuals being unfairly charged for behavior that was exaggerated or misinterpreted.

What Are the Penalties for Disorderly Conduct?

Disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor in Massachusetts, but the penalties can still be serious, especially for repeat offenses. For example, a disorderly conduct conviction may result in:

• Fines of up to $150 for a first offense
• Increased fines and possible jail time for subsequent offenses
• A permanent criminal record that can impact job and housing opportunities

For many, the most damaging consequence is having a criminal record, which can appear on background checks and create long-term difficulties. In some cases, a skilled Boston disorderly conduct lawyer may be able to have the charges dismissed or reduced.

Fighting a Disorderly Conduct Charge

Every case is different, and the right defense depends on the facts of your situation. Some common defenses against disorderly conduct charges include:

Lack of intent. To convict you, the prosecution must prove that you intentionally caused a disturbance. If your behavior was misinterpreted or blown out of proportion, this could be a strong defense.

Violation of free speech rights. The First Amendment protects your right to express yourself, even if others find your words offensive. If you were arrested for verbal conduct alone, your rights may have been violated. If so, then your protected speech cannot form the basis of the prosecution’s charges.

Insufficient evidence. A charge is not the same as a conviction. If there are no credible witnesses or video evidence, or the only witnesses are not credible, the prosecution may not have enough proof to move forward with the case.

Self-defense. If you were involved in a confrontation but were protecting yourself from harm, your actions may not qualify as disorderly conduct.

Our knowledgeable Boston disorderly conduct lawyer is immediately available to review your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and build a strong defense strategy.

Steps to Take If You Have Been Charged

If you have been arrested or cited for disorderly conduct, here’s what you should do next:

• Remain calm and avoid arguing with police, as resisting arrest can lead to additional charges.
• Do not discuss the incident with anyone other than your attorney.
• Gather any relevant evidence, such as witness contact information or video recordings.
• Contact a Boston criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your options.

Even if you think the charge is minor, handling it properly from the start can make all the difference in the outcome.

Protect Your Future with an Experienced Boston Disorderly Conduct Attorney

A disorderly conduct charge may not seem like a big deal, but the consequences can be more serious than you expect. Whether you were in the wrong place at the wrong time or the charges against you are exaggerated, you have the right to fight back. Attorney Patrick J. Murphy has spent nearly three decades helping clients avoid unnecessary convictions, protecting their records and their futures. Call the Law Office of Patrick J. Murphy at (617) 367-0450 for a confidential consultation and start building your defense today.