Natick Disorderly Conduct Defense Lawyer

A disorderly conduct charge in Natick, MA, may seem minor, but it can have serious consequences, including a criminal record, fines, and even jail time. Law enforcement often uses disorderly conduct as a catch-all charge, leading to unfair arrests for misunderstandings, overreactions, or minor disturbances.

If you or a loved one has been charged with disorderly conduct in Natick, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney to fight the charges, protect your record, and work towards a dismissal or reduced penalties.

📞 Call Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm at (857) 229-2442 for a free consultation today.

What is Disorderly Conduct in Massachusetts?

Disorderly conduct is defined under M.G.L. c. 272, § 53 as engaging in behavior that disturbs the peace, causes public inconvenience, or alarms others. Unlike more serious offenses, disorderly conduct does not require physical harm to another person—simply acting in a way that is disruptive or offensive can lead to charges.

Key Elements of Disorderly Conduct

To be convicted, the prosecution must prove that you:

• Engaged in fighting, violent, or threatening behavior
• Created a hazardous, offensive, or disruptive condition
• Acted with intent to cause public inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm

The charge does not require physical violence—even loud arguing, obstructing traffic, or refusing to comply with police orders could be enough to result in an arrest.

Common Situations That Lead to Disorderly Conduct Charges in Natick

Disorderly conduct is a broadly applied offense, meaning many behaviors can result in charges, including:

• Public Arguments or Fights – Bar fights, street altercations, or aggressive verbal confrontations
• Disruptive Behavior at Sporting Events or Bars – Rowdy or intoxicated conduct that disturbs others
• Public Intoxication or Disturbances – Shouting, causing a scene, or refusing to leave an establishment
• Refusing to Comply with Police Orders – Failing to disperse when instructed
• Protests or Demonstrations – If they block streets or create public disruption
• Blocking Traffic or Sidewalks – Preventing the free movement of people or vehicles

Disorderly Conduct & Lewd Behavior

Massachusetts law prohibits disorderly conduct that involves lewd, wanton, or lascivious behavior. Engaging in offensive acts or language that accost or annoy another person can lead to criminal charges, especially when the behavior is deemed sexually inappropriate or indecent.

Examples of Lewd or Disorderly Conduct:

• Using obscene or offensive language in a manner that disturbs the public.
• Engaging in indecent or inappropriate acts in a public setting.
• Keeping or participating in a noisy and disorderly house.
• Acts of indecent exposure in a public place.

Penalties for Disorderly Conduct Involving Lewd Behavior:

• Imprisonment: Up to six months in a jail or house of correction.
• Fines: A fine of up to $200.
• Combination of Both: Courts may impose both a fine and imprisonment, depending on the circumstances of the case.

A charge of disorderly conduct involving lewd behavior can carry long-term consequences beyond fines or jail time, including damage to your reputation and potential registration requirements in more serious cases. If you are facing such charges, it is crucial to consult an attorney to understand your rights and legal options.

Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in Massachusetts

While disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor, it can still result in serious penalties:

Additionally, disorderly conduct can lead to:

• A permanent criminal record that affects jobs and housing
• A loss of professional licenses
• College disciplinary actions for students at Framingham State University, Babson College or other local schools

A Natick criminal defense attorney can often get these charges dismissed, reduced, or handled as a civil infraction to keep your record clean.

Defenses Against Disorderly Conduct Charges

At Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm, we use proven defense strategies to fight disorderly conduct charges:

1. No Intent to Cause a Disturbance
   Disorderly conduct requires intent—if your actions were accidental or misinterpreted, we can argue for dismissal.
2. Freedom of Speech & Assembly
   Protests, political statements, or heated arguments may be protected under the First Amendment.
3. Self-Defense
   If you were protecting yourself from harm, disorderly conduct charges may not be justified.
4. Mistaken Identity
   Crowded areas can lead to wrongful arrests based on incorrect witness statements.
5. No Actual Disturbance
   If there is no evidence of public harm or disruption, the case may be thrown out.

Our goal is to get the charges dropped or reduced to protect your record, reputation, and future opportunities.

Statute of Limitations for Disorderly Conduct in Massachusetts

The statute of limitations for misdemeanor disorderly conduct charges in Massachusetts is 3 years. If you are facing older allegations, we may be able to get the case dismissed based on this legal time limit.

What Happens After a Disorderly Conduct Arrest in Natick?

Disorderly conduct cases are typically handled at:

📍 Natick District Court
120 N Main St, Natick, MA 01760
📞 (508)-620-9110

If arrested, you may receive a summons or citation instead of being taken into custody. However, repeated offenses, public disturbances, or refusal to cooperate can result in jail time.

If you were arrested by the Natick Police Department, you may have been processed at:

📍 Natick Police Department
20 E Central St, Natick, MA 01760
📞 (508) 647-9500

A criminal defense lawyer can challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and work to get your charges dismissed or reduced before your court date.

Why Choose Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm?

• Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys – Decades of courtroom success
• Proven Track Record – Numerous cases dismissed or reduced
• Personalized Legal Strategies – Tailored defense for your unique case
• Aggressive Courtroom Advocacy – We fight for the best possible outcome

Disorderly conduct charges may seem minor, but a conviction can follow you for life. Do not take chances—let us fight for you.

Call a Natick Disorderly Conduct Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one is facing disorderly conduct charges in Natick, act fast to protect your future.

📞 Call Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm today at (857) 229-2442 for a free consultation.

📍 Office Location: 572 Washington Street, Suite 201, Wellesley, MA 02482

We are ready to fight for you—contact us now to start building your defense.