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What to Do When You Are Charged with Disorderly Conduct in Allegheny County

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What to Do When You Are Charged with Disorderly Conduct in Allegheny County

Being charged with disorderly conduct in Allegheny County can be a stressful and confusing experience. At Frank Walker Law, we understand how these charges can impact your life, reputation, and future. Whether this is your first encounter with the criminal justice system or you’ve faced legal challenges before, here is a comprehensive guide to navigating a disorderly conduct charge in Allegheny County.

Understanding Disorderly Conduct in Pennsylvania

Disorderly conduct is a broadly defined offense under Pennsylvania law. It covers a wide range of behaviors that may disrupt public order or cause inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm. Common examples include:

  • Fighting or engaging in threatening behavior.
  • Making unreasonable noise.
  • Using obscene language or gestures in public.
  • Creating hazardous or physically offensive conditions without a legitimate purpose.

Disorderly conduct is typically charged as a summary offense but can be elevated to a misdemeanor under certain circumstances, such as if the behavior posed a significant risk to public safety.

Key Steps to Take After Being Charged

  1. Stay Calm and Avoid Further Conflict If you are confronted by law enforcement, remain calm and cooperative. Avoid escalating the situation, as further disruptive behavior could lead to additional charges. Remember, anything you say or do can be used against you later.

  2. Understand the Charges Carefully review the citation or complaint to understand the specific allegations against you. Knowing whether you are charged with a summary offense or a misdemeanor will help determine the severity of potential penalties.

  3. Document the Incident Write down everything you remember about the incident as soon as possible. Include details such as the time, location, individuals involved, and actions taken. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information, as their testimony may be crucial to your defense.

  4. Consult an Experienced Attorney Disorderly conduct charges may seem minor, but they can have long-lasting consequences, including fines, a criminal record, and even jail time in some cases. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case, identify potential defenses, and work to minimize the impact on your life.

Potential Defenses Against Disorderly Conduct Charges

At Frank Walker Law, we tailor our defense strategy to the specifics of your case. Common defenses include:

  • Lack of Intent: Proving that your actions were not intended to cause public inconvenience or alarm.
  • Constitutional Rights: Demonstrating that your conduct was protected under the First Amendment, such as peaceful protest or free speech.
  • Mistaken Identity: Showing that you were wrongly identified as the person responsible for the alleged behavior.
  • Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s evidence to raise doubt about your culpability.

Why Hire Frank Walker Law?

Frank Walker Law has extensive experience defending clients against disorderly conduct charges in Allegheny County and throughout Pennsylvania. We understand the local court systems, the prosecutors, and the strategies needed to achieve favorable outcomes. When you work with us, you can expect:

  • Compassionate and nonjudgmental representation.
  • Thorough investigation of the facts and evidence.
  • Skilled negotiation to seek reduced charges or penalties.
  • Aggressive advocacy if your case goes to trial.

Don’t Face These Charges Alone

A disorderly conduct charge does not have to define your future. With the right legal guidance, you can fight back and protect your rights. Contact Frank Walker Law today for a free consultation to discuss your case.  

At Frank Walker Law, we are committed to standing by your side every step of the way.

About Frank Walker Law

Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.

Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.

If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.