Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last updated March 20, 2018
Disorderly conduct laws focus on public safety. In Illinois disorderly conduct law prohibits disturbing the peace or engaging in unreasonable conduct that alarms or disturbs others. For example, someone might disturb the peace by yelling or arguing in a public place.
Besides prohibiting disorderly conduct, the state also makes illegal other specific acts because those acts could waste public resources or unnecessarily cause public fear or stress. Accordingly, Illinois state laws include several other types of acts that qualify as disorderly conduct:
Specific details about disorderly conduct laws in Illinois, including charges and penalties, are listed in the following table.
Statutes |
720 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. § 26-1 et. seq. |
Sentences and Penalties |
Illinois state laws determine the penalty for a conviction of disorderly conduct based on the type of charge. Misdemeanor charge can result in a sentence of imprisonment for up to 30 days, six months, or one year, depending on whether the state charges the offense as a Class C, Class B, or Class A misdemeanor. The state may also impose a fine in a maximum amount between $1,500 and $2,500. Disorderly conduct charged as a felony may result in an increased punishment. A Class 4 felony may result in a term of imprisonment for one to three years, while a Class 3 felony can lead to a sentence of two to five years. For a Class 3 felony, the Illinois disorderly conduct laws specifically require a fine in an amount between $3,000 and $10,000. For each sentence, state law requires an additional penalty of 30 to 120 hours of community service if available in the local area. |
Possible Defenses |
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Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
While being charged with disorderly conduct may not seem like a big deal to you, it will still appear on your criminal record if you plead guilty or are convicted. You may be able to mount a defense, but how will you know unless you research? The best way is to get help from an experienced Illinois criminal defense attorney.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Illinois attorneys offer free consultations.