Drunk in Public Arrests in Long Beach
Understanding the Charges and Consequences
Simply being intoxicated in a public place is not enough to make an arrest
or secure a criminal conviction. Countless individuals in Long Beach may
get drunk at bars, restaurants, and public functions, but this does not
mean they have committed a crime. Despite this,
your wrongful arrest could still result in a conviction!
If you are facing a charge of being drunk in public, make no assumptions
about the outcome of your case. Legal counsel from a skilled criminal
defense attorney in Long Beach may help you get a clear understanding
of your situation and how to protect your rights through the legal process.
At the Law Office of Peacock & Le Beau, our criminal lawyers have
successfully tackled criminal charges of all kinds, including a range
of charges involving
DUI and other alcohol/drug-related charges.
Drunk in Public is Disorderly Conduct
When an officer arrests an individual for being drunk in public, it is
according to the statute of disorderly conduct (California Penal Code
§ 647). Under subsection (f) of this law, if individuals are found to be intoxicated
by drugs or alcohol to the point that they cannot care for their own safety
or the safety of others around them, officers may place those individuals
under arrest.
Drunk in public may also be charged on individuals who are drunk to the
point of interfering with other people's use of a sidewalk, street,
or another public causeway. Drunk in public is very similar to other forms
of disorderly conduct in that it mainly deals with situations where individuals
pose a nuisance/threat to public safety. This could determine whether
a case ends in dismissal or conviction.
Penalties for Public Drunkenness
A conviction of drunk in public results in the following punishments:
- Up to 6 months in county jail
- $1,000 in fines
- Probationary period
Because drunk in public is a misdemeanor, judges may be willing to reduce
sentences for individuals who show good faith. However, this does not
change the fact that the offense will go on your permanent record.
A mark on your criminal record could ruin your career and prevent you from seeking vital employment opportunities in the future
or building a strong line of credit.
Build a Strong Defense Against the Charges
It is up to the prosecution to bring a case against you in court. Their
burden will be to prove you were in a public place and that there was
sufficient evidence to prove you were intoxicated and posed a threat to
yourself or others around you. If the officer violated your civil rights
during the process, this may render the charge inadmissible or prevent
a conviction.
Facing the charges alone cannot guarantee that you will achieve success
in your case. Our criminal DUI attorneys know how to build an effective
defense that protects our clients' rights and best interests throughout
the legal procedures. Don't assume your troubles begin and end in
court—retain a caring legal professional to ensure you are protected
after an arrest.
One of our Long Beach criminal defense lawyers is a board-certified criminal
law specialist.
Few firms are able to match our dedication, experience, and legal ability.
Contact us at 562-888-9148 or
schedule a free consultation online and discuss your case!