Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed March 28, 2018
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In Pennsylvania it is a crime to intentionally cause or recklessly create a risk of public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm by doing any of the following:
Basically this statute prohibits any type of action that disturbs the peace of others in public. In turn, law enforcement can detain individuals for disruptive behavior. The charge may be applied to a variety of situations, such loud parties, bar fights, or even some peaceful protests. Sometimes this charge is paired with other offenses, such as an assault or battery charge during a fight, which can lead to more serious consequences for the alleged offender.
Generally, disorderly conduct is charged as a summary offense in Pennsylvania. This is a less serious charge than a felony or misdemeanor. It is not actually a criminal conviction. However, it will show up on criminal record history checks and for that reason, should be taken very seriously. A summary offense may receive a sentence of up to ninety days in jail and/or a fine of anywhere between $25 and $1,500 depending on the degree or severity of the summary offense.
This crime may be charged as a third degree misdemeanor if the defendant intended to cause serious inconvenience or substantial harm, or if he/she persisted with the disorderly conduct after being asked to stop. A third degree misdemeanor in Pennsylvania may receive a sentence of up to one year in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,500.
Below you will find more specific information about disorderly conduct laws in Pennsylvania.
Code Section |
18 Pa. Cons. Stat. sections 5501 et. seq |
Defenses |
Defenses to Disorderly Conduct Charges There are several possible defenses to the crime of disorderly conduct. Here's a list of some of the possible defenses:
|
Penalties |
See Above |
Possible Misdemeanor? |
Yes, see above |
Note: State laws surrounding disorderly conduct are constantly changing -- please contact a Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
While disorderly conduct isn't a capital offense, it can still impact your future and have criminal consequences such as jail time and probation. Don't go into court without legal representation on your side. If you've been charged with violating Pennsylvania disorderly conduct laws, it's a good idea to discuss your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney near you today.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Pennsylvania attorneys offer free consultations.
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