Alabama Disorderly Conduct Laws

By Samuel Strom, J.D. | Legally reviewed by Joseph Fawbush, Esq. | Last reviewed October 31, 2024

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Disorderly conduct refers to actions that offend public order and decency. Some states refer to the crime of disorderly conduct as “disturbing the peace.” Making loud noises, fighting, and using obscene language or gestures all fall under the umbrella of disorderly conduct.

In the state of Alabama, disorderly conduct is a Class C misdemeanor. A conviction for disorderly conduct can result in a fine of up to $500.

This article provides an overview of Alabama’s disorderly conduct laws and criminal penalties. Visit FindLaw’s Disorderly Conduct article for more general information.

Disorderly Conduct Laws: Overview

The chart below contains information about Alabama’s disorderly conduct laws. For more information, visit the Code of Alabama or the links in the Related Resources section later in this article.

Code Section

Code of Alabama Title 13A Criminal Code, Chapter 11, Article 1 - Offenses Against Public Order and Decency

  • AL Code § 13A-11-7

Disorderly Conduct

A person who does the following with the intent to cause public inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm—or recklessly creates a risk of those things—commits the crime of disorderly conduct:

  • Engages in fighting, violent tumultuous behavior, or threatening behavior. (§ 13A-11-7(a)(1))

  • Makes unreasonable noise. (§ 13A-11-7(a)(2))

  • Uses abusive or obscene language or makes an obscene gesture in a public place. (§ 13A-11-7(a)(3))

  • Disturbs any lawful assembly or meeting without the lawful authority to do so. (§ 13A-11-7(a)(4))

  • Obstructs traffic (e.g., motor vehicle or pedestrian) or a transportation facility. (§ 13A-11-7(a)(5))

  • Refusing to comply with a lawful order to disperse from law enforcement while congregating with other people in a public place. (§ 13A-11-7(a)(6))

Merely carrying a holstered or otherwise secured pistol on one’s person in a public place is not disorderly conduct. However, brandishing the pistol (i.e., waving, flourishing, displaying it, etc.) in a threatening or reckless manner can constitute disorderly conduct. (§ 13A-11-7(c))

Law enforcement officers who have a reasonable suspicion that someone is engaging in disorderly conduct may take action to prevent a breach of the peace or to preserve public safety. (§ 13A-11-7(d))

Penalties

Disorderly conduct is a Class C misdemeanor. (§ 13A-11-7(b)). Upon conviction, the offender faces up to a $500 fine. (§ 13A-5-12(a)(3))

Related Crimes

  • Unlawful Assembly (§ 13A-11-5)

  • Failure of Disorderly Persons to Disperse (§ 13A-11-6)

  • Harassment and Harassing Communications (§ 13A-11-8)

  • Loitering (§ 13A-11-9)

  • Public Intoxication (§ 13A-11-10)

Note: The Alabama legislature often creates new laws and revises existing state laws. Contact a criminal defense lawyer in Alabama or conduct your own research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

Related Resources

Browse the links below for more information about Alabama’s disorderly conduct laws and related topics:

You can also visit FindLaw’s Disturbing the Peace article to see how other states criminalize disruptive behaviors.

Facing Disorderly Conduct Charges? Contact an Attorney

If a peace officer has arrested you for disorderly conduct, you may have defenses to the charge. Consider contacting an Alabama criminal defense attorney. They can provide specific legal advice and represent you throughout your criminal case. Contact an attorney today to get started on your defense strategy.

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