![]() ![]() A common question in disorderly conduct cases is whether the organizers of a march or protest had a permit. Here, the phrase “without lawful authority” is critical. Washington’s statute makes it a crime to “intentionally obstruct vehicular traffic or pedestrian traffic without lawful authority.” This activity is most common at political events such as a march, a protest, or a rally. However, statements that are made outside of the public comment period or persistently speaking out of turn could lead to a charge of disorderly conduct. Sometimes these statements are rude or inflammatory. In many cases, people simply are exercising their First Amendment right to free speech. To prove a case of disorderly conduct, the prosecution will need to provide evidence that the defendant used abusive language and made statements that clearly indicate an intent to start a fight, such as ”Hit me” or “Let’s go.” Disturbing a MeetingĬharges of disorderly conduct for disturbing a meeting or another lawful assembly often arise in the context of a public meeting at city hall, or at the scene of another public demonstration. But to successfully prove disorderly conduct, the prosecution must prove that the defendant intended to start a fight. The most common cause of a criminal charge for disorderly conduct involves using abusive language to provoke someone into committing an assault. Lack of intent is a common defense strategy that can be used to defeat a charge of disorderly conduct. Washington’s disorderly conduct statute identifies four basic types of conduct that can be considered “disorderly.” The first three require a showing of intentional behavior. Defenses to Charges of Disorderly Conduct Your lawyer may even be able to have the charges against you dismissed. Work with an experienced criminal defense lawyer at The Campbell Law Firm to fight the charge, reduce the severity of the penalties, or negotiate a plea to a lesser offense. ![]() If you have been charged, you may feel that the charge was unfair or unwarranted. While the crime covers many different activities, it is important to note that to convict a person, the prosecutor must prove more than that a person was simply engaging in conduct the police officer believed to be “disorderly.” Engaging in fighting, tumultuous conduct, or making unreasonable noise within 500 feet of a funeral.Intentionally disturbing a lawful meeting or assembly without lawful authority.Using abusive language to intentionally create a risk of assault.Specifically, RCW 9A.84.030 identifies the following conduct: Washington’s statute, RCW 9A.84.030, criminalizes activities that some people consider a public disturbance or a breach of the public peace. What Is Disorderly Conduct?ĭisorderly conduct covers a wide range of behaviors. Then he will provide advice about your options, answer your questions, and vigorously defend you against Washington criminal charges. ![]() Justin begins his representation by asking questions to learn about your situation. Improve your chances of a successful result by putting his experience to work for you. Your lawyer may even be able to have the charges against you dismissed.Ĭriminal defense attorney Justin Campbell has extensive experience defending people who have been accused of all types of crimes. By working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer, you can fight the charge, reduce the severity of the penalties, or negotiate a plea to a lesser offense. However, a conviction carries a sentence of up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and a permanent criminal record. It is a misdemeanor offense and, compared to other crimes, many people view it as a relatively minor offense. Disorderly conduct is one of the most common criminal charges in Washington state. ![]()
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