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Skillful Disorderly Conduct Lawyers in Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Four Minneapolis Disorderly Conduct Attorneys, One Powerful Law Firm

Attorney Kyle Dreger

Kyle Dreger

Attorney Gerald Miller

Gerald Miller

How Disorderly Conduct Attorneys in Minneapolis Help You?

Brawling or Fighting

Disturbing a Lawful Assembly

Offensive Conduct

Caregiver Fighting/Brawling Enhancement

Most states have a general disturbing the peace, reckless conduct, or disorderly conduct statute. Section 609.72 of the Minnesota Statutes is actually more specific than some other similar laws in other states. Many defendants have argued the disorderly conduct law violates free speech. All these challenges have failed. Governments must respect free speech, but they can pass reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions.

Disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. Additionally, many employers view disorderly conduct as a “troublemaker” offense. So, these convictions, perhaps more so than other misdemeanors, may create significant employment problems.

Since so much is at stake, Gerald Miller, P.A. aggressively defends these cases in court. We do more than reduce or eliminate the consequences of a criminal conviction. We also stand up for your rights, including your right to free speech.

Brawling and Fighting Defense

“Fighting” is very broadly defined. There is no physical or emotional injury requirement. That feature makes this section different from other disorderly conduct offenses which at least require an emotional injury. In fact, the fight need not even be physical. It could be verbal.

“Brawling” does not require active participation. Watching a fight and encouraging the conduct, or doing nothing to discourage it, could be considered brawling.

As qualified Minneapolis Disorderly Conduct lawyers, we understand that just Like other disorderly conduct charges, fighting and brawling usually requires a civilian witness. By the time police officers arrive, the fight is normally over. This additional requirement makes it difficult for prosecutors to obtain convictions.

Fighting Charges For Disturbing a Lawful Assembly

Mere presence does not disturb an assembly, no matter how the participants react. If a prominent Democrat attended the Republican National Convention and sat relatively quietly, disorderly conduct charges would probably not hold up in court, no matter how badly the Republicans resented the Democrat’s presence.

Instead, the law requires a disturbance. That act could be shouting down a speaker, chanting, or holding signs. However, these things might or might not constitute a disturbance, depending on the facts.

The lawful assembly requirement is more uncertain. If the group had a permit from a government body, the assembly is clearly legal. Ad hoc gatherings, like street demonstrations, might or might not be lawful. Speaking to a Minneapolis Disorderly Conduct lawyer will help you gain a better understanding.

Offensive Conduct Defense

The statute prohibits “offensive, obscene, abusive, boisterous, or noisy conduct or in offensive, obscene, or abusive language tending reasonably to arouse alarm, anger, or resentment in others.” That’s an awful lot of words, and an awfully vague definition. The different levels of profanity are a good example.

Common four-letter words in PG movies are technically obscene. This language legitimately offends many people. However, such language does not reasonably offend people. An exception might be shouting a four-letter word in church.

F-bombs and s-bombs are in a grey area. Occasional, incidental use probably does not satisfy the alarm, resentment, or anger requirement. Repeated use might do so, especially if the defendant used his/her outside voice.

If the defendant shouts such language at another person, this conduct almost certainly constitutes disorderly conduct. The charges only hold up in court if the other person appears and testifies that the defendant used such language and s/he was offended.

Caregiver Fighting/Brawling Enhancements

If a caregiver fights or brawls with a vulnerable adult, it can create a gross misdemeanor offense, and the maximum punishment is a year in jail and a $3,000 fine. This enhancement does not apply to obscene language or other disorderly conduct sections. Remember, even though it may seem like a Minneapolis Assault lawyer would be able to help you in such cases, it is best to speak to a proven Minneapolis Disorderly Conduct lawyer and request assistance.

A “caregiver” is someone who has responsibility for a family member. A “vulnerable adult” is someone who receives, or is qualified to receive, services from any inpatient facility, such as a nursing home or drug rehab facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor or, in some cases, a gross misdemeanor. However, a misdemeanor could mean up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine plus court costs. Disorderly conduct has substantial indirect consequences as well.

Basically, disorderly conduct is offensive physical or verbal conduct in a one-on-one or group setting. The statute criminalizes a number of behaviors when many people would not consider criminal.

Since disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor, a court appearance is almost always required. Occasionally, if the evidence is very weak, a Minneapolis defense lawyer can use that to dramatically impact the result of the case.

How We Make A Difference For You

See What Our Clients Say

Nabila Mahamed
Nabila Mahamed
I recently had the pleasure of working with Gerald Miller, and I can't recommend him highly enough. From our first interaction, Gerald demonstrated a remarkable commitment to my needs as a client. He took the time to understand my case and went above and beyond to ensure that every detail was addressed. If you're looking for someone who genuinely cares about their clients and delivers exceptional results, look no further than Gerald Miller.
P Z
P Z
Bill Bailey handled my case quite and cool!I would recommend this law firm anytime!
mohamed dahir
mohamed dahir
I had an exceptional experience with Gerald Miller as my attorney. From our first meeting, his expertise and professionalism stood out. He took the time to thoroughly explain the legal process and answered all my questions, making me feel informed and confident. His attention to detail and dedication to my case were evident throughout. I truly appreciate his proactive approach and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Gerald Miller to anyone seeking knowledgeable and trustworthy legal representation.
JRo Flo
JRo Flo
Kyle and his team are absolutely amazing! Any needs you may be having, reach out. They will not disappoint. Trust the ratings!
Tim Stocker
Tim Stocker
Brodie Hacken did a great job for me. Gave me all the scenario's to be able to make a very informed decision as to which way to proceed.
Ryan Kirmeier
Ryan Kirmeier
He gave me great information during a free call and wasn't pushy. This definitely calmed me down and helped me find a clear path forward.

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