Disorderly Conduct Charges in Indiana

What is Disorderly Conduct According to the Indiana Code?

 Under IC 35-45-1-3, a person can face disorderly conduct charges if they recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally do any of the following:

• Engage in fighting or in tumultuous conduct;
• Make unreasonable noise and continue to do so after being asked to stop; or
• Disrupt a lawful assembly of persons.

Any of these disorderly conduct actions will be charged typically as a Class B misdemeanor. It should be relatively easy to recognize how this particular offense is often charged when a group fight breaks out, or when an argument at a social gathering ensues. In those circumstances, parties routinely engage in “fighting or in tumultuous conduct,” often while making “unreasonable noise.”

The charges can be elevated to a Level 6 Felony in certain circumstances, including if disorderly conduct occurs at an airport or during a funeral.

Defending Against Disorderly Conduct 

Even though the offense of disorderly conduct does not require intent as many crimes do (recklessness can be enough for charges to be brought, even if acts were not committed intentionally), there are still ways to build a strong defense against disorderly conduct charges. Some examples include:

• Mistaken identity (i.e., you were not the person engaged in the conduct); or
• Alleged “unreasonable noise” was not unreasonable under the circumstances.

Contact an Indianapolis Assault Defense Attorney Today for Assistance

 Were you arrested for disorderly conduct, or are you currently facing charges for disorderly conduct in the Indianapolis area? Our experienced Indianapolis criminal defense attorneys at Rigney Law LLC know that disorderly conduct charges can be brought erroneously, and we also know that allegations of disorderly conduct can also rise in circumstances where alcohol is involved and mistakes are made. No matter which situation you find yourself in, we are committed to providing a strong defense that is tailored to the facts of your case. Contact our firm today to learn more about how we can assist you with disorderly conduct charges in Indiana.

Source:

law.justia.com/codes/indiana/title-35/article-45/chapter-1/section-35-45-1-3/