A Disorderly Conduct charge in Framingham, MA may seem minor, but it can lead to serious legal consequences. Many people are charged with Disorderly Conduct due to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, or overzealous policing. A conviction could result in jail time, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record, which may affect your ability to secure employment, housing, or professional opportunities.
At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we understand the stakes of a criminal charge and are committed to protecting your rights. Our experienced Framingham criminal defense attorneys will work aggressively to get your charges reduced or dismissed.
π Call (857) 229-2442 today for a free consultation with a Framingham Disorderly Conduct attorney.
What is Disorderly Conduct in Massachusetts?
Disorderly Conduct is a broad criminal charge under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 272, Section 53. It applies when someone intentionally engages in behavior that disturbs the peace, causes alarm, or disrupts public order.
Police officers have broad discretion when deciding whether to arrest someone for Disorderly Conduct. Unfortunately, this often leads to people being arrested for behavior that is non-criminal or constitutionally protected under the First Amendment.
Examples of Disorderly Conduct in Framingham
You could be charged with Disorderly Conduct in Framingham for engaging in:
- Public fights or altercations
- Shouting, using offensive language, or making threats in public
- Blocking roads, sidewalks, or public pathways
- Public intoxication with disruptive behavior
- Interfering with a police officer or resisting arrest
- Refusing to leave an area when asked by law enforcement
Many people accused of Disorderly Conduct were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Our defense attorneys can fight to get your charges dismissed or reduced.
Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in Massachusetts
Even though Disorderly Conduct is classified as a misdemeanor, it carries serious penalties, including:
- First Offense β Up to 6 months in jail and a $150 fine
- Second or Subsequent Offense β Up to 1 year in jail and increased fines
- Probation β You may be placed on probation with conditions such as community service or counseling
- Criminal Record β A conviction can affect employment opportunities, professional licenses, and housing applications
Even if no jail time is imposed, having a criminal record can impact your future. Hiring an experienced defense attorney is your best chance to avoid these consequences.
Legal Defenses Against Disorderly Conduct Charges
At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we use a variety of legal strategies to fight Disorderly Conduct charges, including:
- Lack of Intent β The prosecution must prove that you intended to cause a public disturbance.
- First Amendment Protections β Your speech or actions may be protected under the U.S. Constitution.
- False Accusations β You were wrongly accused or misidentified.
- Self-Defense β If you were acting in self-defense, your charges may be dismissed.
- Police Misconduct β If law enforcement violated your rights, we may seek to have the charges dropped.
π¨ Each case is different. Our team will craft a personalized defense strategy tailored to your situation.
Where Will Your Disorderly Conduct Case Be Heard?
If you were arrested for Disorderly Conduct in Framingham, your case will be handled at:
Framingham District Court
π 600 Concord St., Framingham, MA 01701
π (508) 875-7461
Your arrest may have been made by:
Framingham Police Department
π 1 William H Welch Way, Framingham, MA 01702
π (508) 872-1212
Knowing the local court system, judges, and prosecutors can be an advantage in fighting your case. Our attorneys have extensive experience defending clients in Framingham District Court and know how to navigate the system to achieve the best possible outcome.
Why Choose the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?
- Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys β Our legal team has successfully defended clients facing Disorderly Conduct charges across Massachusetts.
- Aggressive Defense Strategies β We fight to get charges reduced or dismissed whenever possible.
- Proven Results β We have helped clients avoid jail time, fines, and criminal records.
- Personalized Legal Representation β Every case is unique, and we build customized defense strategies to fit your situation.
- 24/7 Availability β We are always available to answer your questions and provide legal guidance.
Contact a Framingham Disorderly Conduct Lawyer Today
A Disorderly Conduct charge may seem minor, but it can have lasting effects on your life. If you or a loved one has been arrested in Framingham, don't waitβhire an experienced criminal defense attorney who will fight for you.
Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
π 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
π (857) 229-2442
π¨ Charged with Disorderly Conduct in Framingham? Call now for a free consultation.