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Originally Posted On: https://bippermedia.com/long-term-consequences-of-a-disorderly-intoxication-conviction/
It’s okay to have fun and drink. However, drinking too much and causing a public disturbance can lead to an arrest in the state of Florida. If you are convicted of disorderly intoxication, there will be some long-term consequences that you may face.
In this article, you will learn more about the long-term consequences of a disorderly intoxication conviction. You will also learn more about what you can do when you get a Disorderly Intoxication Conviction and when you need an attorney for this.
What is a Disorderly Intoxication Conviction?
A Disorderly Intoxication Conviction is defined under Florida Statute 856.011. It states: “No person in the state shall be intoxicated and endanger the safety of another person or property, and no person in the state shall be intoxicated or drink any alcoholic beverage in a public place or in or upon any public conveyance and cause a public disturbance.”
This conviction occurs when a person is intoxicated and causes a public disturbance. This can include but is not limited to causing a disturbance at a restaurant, bar, or nightclub.
It’s important to note that intoxication in Florida means more than merely drinking an alcoholic beverage. To be charged with a disorderly intoxication conviction, the accused must have been so influenced by the alcoholic beverage that they lost control over their normal bodily or mental functions. Often, intoxication is synonymous with “drunk.”
To explain even further, let’s say that you are at a bar and you have had too much to drink. You start to get rowdy and loud, and you get into a fight with another patron. The police are called, and you are arrested for disorderly intoxication.
When you get arrested, you will be taken to the county jail. You will have to post a bond to get released from jail. Once you are released, you will have to go to court.
In the court proceedings, the state prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you, the defendant:
- Were intoxicated, and you endangered the safety of other people or property, OR
- You were intoxicated or drank an alcoholic beverage in a public space and caused a public disturbance.
The judge will then review your case and decide if you are guilty or not guilty of the charges against you. If you are found guilty, you will be convicted of disorderly intoxication.
What are the Long-Term Consequences of a Disorderly Intoxication Conviction?
There are some long-term consequences that you may face if you are convicted of disorderly intoxication. A disorderly intoxication conviction is deemed a second-degree misdemeanor. One of the most basic consequences is paying a fine. You will be asked to pay from $100 to $500 as a fine. You can also face up to 60 days in jail or 6 months on probation.
If you have been convicted of disorderly intoxication 3 times within a 12 month span of time, you can be classified as a habitual offender. The courts can send you to a treatment center for up to 60 days.
You will also have a criminal record if you are convicted of disorderly intoxication. This record cannot not be removed or expunged. You will have to disclose your conviction if you are asked about it on a job application or in an interview.
Defenses for a Disorderly Intoxication Conviction
If you have been arrested for disorderly intoxication, there are many defenses you can use to reduce or remove the charges. It’s best to talk with an attorney before going to court.
Here are some common defenses they might suggest for you:
- You were not intoxicated
- You did not cause damage to other people or property
- The disturbance was a minor nuisance rather than being overtly damaging
- The disturbance did not occur in a public place
- If the situation involved a physical altercation, your attorney can defend your actions with a self-defense claim
- Your attorney can use the First Amendment’s freedom of speech clause to defend your actions
When facing long-term consequences, it is important to have someone on your side who knows the law. An attorney can help you with your case and ensure that your rights are protected. The consequences of a conviction can be serious, and you need someone on your side who can help you through this process.
Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Clearwater, Florida
A disorderly intoxication conviction can have long-term consequences that affect your ability to get a job, find housing, and even travel. A criminal record for disorderly intoxication can also limit your opportunities to further your education.
If you are convicted of disorderly intoxication, contact the Hanlon Law office in Clearwater, Florida because we can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights. At Hanlon Law, our attorneys have years of experience handling disorderly intoxication cases. We will work with you to develop your case and produce the best possible outcomes.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to our attorneys, visit our website to set up a free consultation today.
Hanlon Law
600 Cleveland St #1100
Clearwater, FL 33755
(727) 897-5413
https://www.criminalattorneyclearwater.net
