Ocala Disorderly Conduct Lawyer
Disorderly conduct charges are very subjective. It’s defined as when someone engages in behavior that would disrupt the peace, offend others, or (for lack of a better term) cause a scene. Behavior that may seem offensive to some might not elicit a response from others. Still, with a conviction, you could face fines, jail time, and irreparable damage to your reputation.
If you have been charged with disorderly conduct, you have more than options; you have the support of Meldon Law’s Ocala criminal defense lawyers. Our law firm can protect your rights and advocate for your best interests. Our lawyers have a thorough understanding of Florida’s criminal law and can provide a robust defense.
Begin your case review when you call (352) 373-8000.
Why Am I Facing Disorderly Conduct Charges in Ocala?
Before we expand on the benefits of hiring our criminal defense firm, we want you to understand the charges you face and what a guilty conviction could mean.
In Florida, disorderly conduct, otherwise known as breach of peace, is considered a Class B misdemeanor. Examples of disorderly conduct could include:
- Fighting (yes, even playfighting or roughhousing)
- Public intoxication
- Partaking in violent demonstrations
- Refusing to leave a property when asked
- Panhandling
- Blocking traffic
- Resisting arrest
- Inciting violence
Disorderly conduct cases can get complicated because of the many factors at play. One of those factors is your legal right to defend yourself, protest, and enjoy alcoholic beverages. When Meldon Law investigates your case, we determine whether law enforcement violated your rights and, if so, to what extent.
A Criminal Conviction Could Negatively Affect Your Life
Make no mistake. Even though misdemeanors are seen as “less serious” than felonies, you should still take disorderly conduct charges seriously. That’s because, under Florida law, you could face these penalties if convicted:
- Up to 60 days in jail
- A fine of up to $500 and up to six months’ probation
Even a few days behind bars could prove detrimental to your mental health and physical safety. And do you really want to spend $2,000 on a one-time incident? Our team protects you from the penalties the state pushes for, aiming for the best possible outcome.
What Our Ocala Criminal Defense Lawyers Do for You
From the moment you entrust us with your case, we could:
1. Investigate Your Charges
Our Ocala disorderly conduct attorneys will investigate your case, looking for flaws in the prosecution’s argument that could potentially help us negotiate a lighter sentence or secure an acquittal. This investigation requires examining evidence, talking to law enforcement and witnesses, and gathering other information about your case.
2. Handle Paperwork
All criminal cases typically involve a significant amount of paperwork, which requires accuracy. Errors made with collecting, completing, and filing documents could undermine your defense. Also, these documents often involve strict deadlines, and you don’t want to miss a single one.
3. Provide an Objective Perspective
If this is your first time facing the criminal justice system, you might not fully understand your legal options. For instance, the prosecutor may offer a plea deal. You might think this is as good as pleading guilty, but it’s not. It could mean fewer penalties, some of which barely dent your quality of life. Our team can offer realistic insight into your options and advise you accordingly.
4. Close the Case Before Prosecutors File Charges
If you contact an experienced attorney as soon as you are arrested, we can gather evidence that discourages the prosecutor from charging you in the first place. Prompt action could also help lessen the charges. For example, arguments and evidence presented by your lawyer could persuade the prosecutor to charge you with a Class C misdemeanor instead of a Class B misdemeanor. Rather than resulting in jail time and a $2,000 fine, here, you would only have to pay $500.
5. Guide You Through the Trial
If your case goes to trial, a criminal defense attorney from Meldon Law can handle all aspects of the legal process, including:
- Preparing all required documentation
- Consulting with experts
- Selecting jurors
- Cross-examining witnesses
- Presenting opening and closing statements
Our Ocala disorderly conduct lawyers understand how the legal system works and interact with trial participants to achieve a positive outcome. We work well under pressure and know how to capitalize on crucial opportunities.
You can learn more about our commitment to client success when checking out our client testimonials.
Your Attorney May Employ These Defenses Against Your Charges
Meldon Law has more than 50 years of legal experience, and we got our start advocating for people in Gainesville. Trust us––we’ve seen our fair share of disorderly conduct cases arising from football games, bonfires, and typical college town antics. Needless to say, we know how to overcome these criminal charges.
After reviewing your case, we may allege that:
You Engaged in Verbal Conduct Only
Disorderly conduct cases involving only verbal conduct can quickly devolve into “he said, she said” battles. If the prosecution doesn’t have evidence that you violated the law, we can move to have your case dismissed. We may also allege that you have the right to freedom of speech under the U.S. Constitution, and sharing your opinion does not constitute a crime.
You Were Merely Loud or Created an Annoyance
There’s no law against being annoying or drawing attention to yourself. It is, however, illegal to create a disturbance that interrupts how society conducts itself. We build your defense showing that you acted within your rights, and the public was not disturbed.
You Engaged in Self-Defense
You have the right to defend yourself if you have reason to believe that you were in imminent danger. For instance, if you were at a protest, and someone threatened you with violence, you have the right to protect yourself within reason.
Connect With Our Ocala Disorderly Conduct Lawyers Today
The last thing you want to do is to defend yourself in court. You could spend the night before reading up on your rights and creating a defense, only to get tongue-tied and convicted. At Meldon Law, we put your needs first. We examine the prosecution’s case, build your defense, and advocate for your future.
Get legal counsel and much-needed peace of mind when you call (352) 373-8000. During your initial consultation, feel free to ask us anything.
