Disorderly Conduct Lawyer NJ - N.J.S. § 2C:33-2

Under New Jersey law, “disorderly conduct” includes fighting, threatening behavior, violent conduct, or creating a hazardous situation. These charges are often issued when someone creates a public disturbance, and even minor confrontations can result in criminal charges.

If you’re facing a disorderly conduct charge, working with an experienced attorney is key. Even though disorderly conduct charges are minor offenses, a conviction can result in fines, jail time, community service, and a criminal record.

We have extensive experience defending clients against disorderly conduct charges—let us help protect your future. Here’s what one of our clients had to say after working with us: “Jason managed to get all my charges dropped and was very helpful in getting me court dates that I could attend, highly recommend using him.”

Don’t risk fighting the charges on your own. Call the Law Office of Jason A. Volet or contact us online for a free consultation with a disorderly conduct lawyer NJ.

How Is Disorderly Conduct Classified in New Jersey?

Under N.J.S. § 2C:33-2, disorderly conduct is a petty disorderly persons offense. In other states, this would be called a misdemeanor.

While this offense isn’t classified as a felony, don’t let the name fool you. It’s still a criminal offense with potential jail time and collateral consequences.

What Are Some Examples of Disorderly Conduct?

“Disorderly conduct” encompasses specific undesirable behaviors:

• Public intoxication
• Fighting or other physical altercations
• Violent threats
• Unruly behavior
• Creating a hazardous or physically dangerous condition for no “legitimate” reason
• Using offensive language in public with the intent to disturb others

For example, if you’re intoxicated and get into a fight outside a bar, that could lead to disorderly conduct charges. Even threatening a fight could result in charges.

Can a Disorderly Conduct Charge Be Issued Along with Other Charges?

Disorderly conduct is often charged alongside other related offenses. As in the example above, if you’re intoxicated in public and get into a fight outside a bar, you might be charged with public intoxication, simple assault, and disorderly conduct.

Other common related offenses include criminal mischief (such as property damage) and resisting arrest. You may face multiple charges from just one incident—and those penalties can add up fast.

What Are the Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in New Jersey?

While petty disorderly persons offenses are the lowest level offenses in New Jersey, there are still serious consequences. If you’re convicted, you may face:

• Up to 30 days in jail
• Up to $500 in fines
• Possible community service, probation, or diversionary programs
• Court fees and related costs

It’s important to remember that these penalties may be more severe if you’re charged with additional crimes. While you might be tempted to represent yourself in court, the potential penalties aren’t worth the risk.

Working with a seasoned attorney is the best way to fight for case dismissal or reduced consequences. The Law Office of Jason A. Volet can help protect your rights, provide a strategic legal defense, and work to reduce or dismiss those charges.

Will a New Jersey Disorderly Conduct Charge Go on My Record?

If you’re convicted of a disorderly conduct charge, it will appear on your criminal record. This will show up anytime someone performs a background check on you. That can make it difficult to pass background checks, find employment, and rent housing. If you’re in an industry that requires a professional license, like healthcare, you risk losing your license.

However, there’s a difference between being charged with disorderly conduct and being convicted. A charge is simply an accusation, while a conviction means the prosecution has proved you committed the offense.

Our firm can fight for your charges to be dismissed or downgraded to a municipal offense. This helps protect you from fines and jail time, as well as a criminal record and further consequences.

Are There Ways to Avoid a Possible Disorderly Conduct Charge?

The best way to avoid disorderly conduct charges is to avoid prohibited behavior. Sometimes, that’s not possible, however, like when someone else makes a threat or starts a fight. Here are some tips to prevent a possible disorderly conduct charge:

• Avoid public confrontations whenever possible. Try to deflect or de-escalate if someone acts aggressively.
• Stay aware of your language and behavior when you’re in public spaces. Avoid drawing attention to yourself by yelling or swearing.
• If law enforcement approaches you, stay calm and polite. If you’re arrested, don’t resist. Ask for an attorney and invoke your right to remain silent.

Remember that even if you’re accused of disorderly conduct, a skilled disorderly conduct lawyer in NJ can challenge those charges. For instance, your lawyer will review and challenge the evidence. Depending on the facts of your specific case, this could lead to dismissal, reduced charges, and alternatives to jail time.

Can a New Jersey Disorderly Conduct Charge Be Expunged?

Expungement means removing, sealing, or isolating your charges or convictions from your criminal record. It’s like wiping the slate clean—the incident won’t show up on background checks.

Generally, a disorderly conduct conviction can be expunged after five years, assuming you’ve paid all fines and fees and have remained conviction-free since then.

If your charges were dismissed or downgraded to a municipal ordinance violation, you may be eligible for faster expungement. Furthermore, if you’re admitted into the conditional dismissal program—where your charge is dismissed at the end of probation—you can expunge your arrest record after six months.

Your criminal defense attorney can help you pursue expungement after you meet the state’s requirements.

Contact a New Jersey Disorderly Conduct Lawyer

If you’re facing a disorderly conduct charge, don’t risk jail time, fines, and a criminal record. Strong legal representation can help minimize or dismiss those charges. The Law Office of Jason A. Volet is prepared to step in and fight to protect your rights. We’re available 24/7 to ensure you have the skilled legal representation you need.

Jason A. Volet has over 19 years of experience handling misdemeanors and felonies. He has worked as both a Monmouth County assistant prosecutor and criminal defense attorney, allowing him to build a strategic defense for each client. Thanks to his work on over 4,000 cases, he has successfully helped clients secure the most favorable outcomes possible.

Contact the Law Office of Jason A. Volet today for a free consultation.