Are Public Intoxication Charges Often Connected To Other Offenses?
Drunk and disorderly is a common charge that can happen when someone is visibly under the influence of alcohol or drugs in a public space. In Baltimore, as in many other cities, public intoxication rules are designed to protect the public from disruptive or dangerous behavior caused by impaired individuals.
Knowing your rights and when to seek legal help is important if you find yourself facing a public intoxication charge. Consulting with an experienced Baltimore criminal lawyer can make a substantial difference in how your case is handled and its ultimate outcome.
When Do Public Intoxication Charges Happen?
Public intoxication charges can happen in various situations. Typically, they arise when a person is visibly impaired in a public area and is either causing a disturbance, posing a threat to themselves or others, or violating local laws. This charge doesn’t necessarily require that the individual be causing harm, simply being visibly drunk or high in public is enough to prompt police intervention.
Common scenarios that can lead to a public intoxication charge include:
- Being intoxicated in public spaces such as parks, sidewalks, or bars
- Arguing or engaging in disruptive behavior while intoxicated
- Individuals in an unsafe condition, such as passed out in a public space
- Involvement in a public altercation where alcohol or drugs were a factor
It’s important to note that public intoxication laws vary from state to state. In Maryland, public intoxication is typically classified as a misdemeanor, and penalties can include fines, community service, or even jail time, depending on the circumstances of the incident.
Can Penalties Be Escalated?
Yes, drunk and disorderly charges can be escalated because they are often not standalone offenses. For instance, a drunk person causing a scene, engaging in a fight, or otherwise acting in a disruptive manner might also face a disorderly conduct charge in addition to public intoxication.
There is also the possibility of intoxicated individuals not complying with police or becoming physically aggressive, leading to resisting arrest or assault charges. These additional charges can complicate the legal situation and increase the penalties a person faces, making it even more important to seek legal advice.
If you’ve been charged with public intoxication in Baltimore, recognize that it is not just a minor inconvenience, it’s a criminal charge that can carry consequences. While public intoxication alone may only result in fines or community service, if it’s accompanied by other charges, you could be facing much more severe penalties.
Keeping your criminal record clean is part of securing the future you want. Even a misdemeanor conviction can impact your ability to secure employment, maintain professional licenses, or obtain housing. A Baltimore criminal lawyer can help you understand the full scope of the consequences and work to mitigate them.
Do you have a criminal record? If so, you may be worried that a pending public intoxication charge will carry harsh penalties. Share your story with the legal team at Iamele & Iamele, LLP. Attorneys know to investigate your case and potentially challenge charges. Contact us to book your confidential appointment.
