Disorderly Conduct Charges – Regis College
Defending Regis College Students Accused of Disorderly Conduct
Dedham District Court & College Disciplinary Hearings
Disorderly conduct charges in Massachusetts may appear minor, but for Regis College students, these cases can quickly spiral into serious legal and academic consequences. An arrest or citation can trigger court proceedings, college discipline, and lasting damage to your record.
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett represent Regis College students accused of disorderly conduct with a strategic approach focused on protecting your criminal record, your academic standing, and your future opportunities.
Understanding Disorderly Conduct Charges in Massachusetts
Disorderly conduct is governed by M.G.L. c. 272, § 53. To secure a conviction, the prosecution must show that the conduct:
-
Occurred in a public setting
-
Was likely to affect or disturb the public
-
Was intended to cause public inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm, or recklessly created such a risk
Common situations involving college students include:
-
Arguments or altercations at parties or campus events
-
Loud or disruptive behavior in residence halls
-
Allegations involving alcohol-fueled incidents
-
Confrontations with campus security or police
Many disorderly conduct cases stem from subjective interpretations of behavior, making them highly defensible with experienced legal representation.
Criminal Charges vs. College Discipline
Disorderly conduct allegations typically result in two parallel proceedings:
-
A criminal case in Dedham District Court
-
A disciplinary investigation by Regis College
These processes are separate. Even if the criminal charge is dismissed or reduced, the college may still impose sanctions. Coordinating both defenses from the start is critical.
Legal Consequences of Disorderly Conduct
Penalties under Massachusetts law include:
First Offense
-
Fine of up to $150
Second or Subsequent Offense
-
Fine of up to $200
-
Up to 6 months in a jail or house of correction
While these penalties may seem minor, a conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect internships, graduate school admissions, employment, and professional licensing.
All criminal cases for Regis College students are handled at:
Dedham District Court
631 High Street
Dedham, MA 02026
Regis College Policies and Disciplinary Actions
Regis College enforces strict standards regarding student conduct. Disorderly behavior may violate the Student Code of Conduct and prompt immediate disciplinary action.
Potential sanctions include:
-
Disciplinary probation
-
Suspension
-
Expulsion
-
Mandatory counseling or educational programs
College discipline may proceed regardless of the outcome in court.
Relevant policies can be found here:
https://www.regiscollege.edu/studenthandbook
Frequently Asked Questions
What constitutes disorderly conduct under Massachusetts law?
Engaging in offensive or disorderly acts or language that accost or annoy others, or creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition without legitimate purpose.
How does Regis College handle disorderly conduct allegations?
The college conducts its own investigation and may impose sanctions even if the criminal case is dismissed.
What should I do if I am accused?
Do not discuss the incident with police, campus security, or administrators before consulting with a criminal defense attorney.
Defense Strategies for Disorderly Conduct Charges
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett develop defenses tailored to the specific facts of each case, including:
-
Challenging whether the conduct met the legal definition
-
Arguing lack of intent or public impact
-
Disputing witness credibility or police observations
-
Seeking dismissal, diversion, or pretrial resolution
-
Coordinating defense strategy with college disciplinary proceedings
Early legal action often prevents a minor charge from becoming a long-term problem.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
-
Extensive experience defending Massachusetts disorderly conduct cases
-
Proven advocacy for college students facing criminal and disciplinary proceedings
-
Deep familiarity with Dedham District Court
-
Strategic focus on protecting education, reputation, and future career prospects
-
Personalized, aggressive defense from start to finish
Protect Your Future – Contact Us Today
The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Wellesley Office
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Cranston Office
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: 401.425.4059
Website: https://www.krbarrettlaw.com
We offer confidential consultations for Regis College students facing disorderly conduct charges and are prepared to step in immediately to protect your rights, your academic standing, and your future.
