Connecticut Disorderly Conduct Laws
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed June 20, 2016
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While in Connecticut, you may wish to visit one of the state's many wineries. But what happens if you have a little too much to drink and you're charged with disorderly conduct? If you ever find yourself facing a disorderly conduct charge, you may first want to learn about the elements of the crime under Connecticut law. That way, you'll know whether what you've done is actually against the law.
Disorderly conduct laws in Connecticut prohibit things such as fighting, making an unreasonable amount of noise, disturbing a lawful assembly such as a graduation proceeding, obstructing traffic, or congregating with others in a public place and refusing to leave. In Connecticut, the law also prohibits "Peeping Toms" from trespassing on private property and watching people in the privacy of their own homes when they're not in plain view.
In some states, penalties for disorderly conduct can be severe, especially when the conduct occurs immediately before, after, or during a funeral procession. In Connecticut, disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor punishable by jail time and fines.
Connecticut Disorderly Conduct Laws
The following table outlines the specifics of disorderly conduct laws in Connecticut.
Code Sections | CONN. GEN. STAT. § 53a-182 |
What’s Prohibited? | Intentionally inconveniencing, annoying, or alarming others or recklessly creating a risk of inconveniencing, annoying or alarming others by:
|
Penalties | Disorderly conduct is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by up to 3 months in jail and up to $500 in fines. |
Connecticut Disorderly Conduct Laws: Related Resources
Sometimes, it can be a fine line between a good time and disorderly conduct. Disorderly conduct laws can be confusing and depending upon your circumstances, it may be hard to tell if what you've done is against the law. If you’ve been charged with disorderly conduct and would like legal assistance, you can contact a Connecticut criminal defense attorney. You can also visit FindLaw’s sections on Disorderly Conduct and Public Safety Violations for more articles and information on this topic.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
- A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Connecticut attorneys offer free consultations.
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