When You Need a Public Intoxication Attorney
If you or someone you know has been arrested for public intoxication, you know it can be a daunting and embarrassing experience. Being outside in public, enjoying a drink, and suddenly encountering a police officer who believes you have had one too many can lead to a range of consequences. In this article, we’ll explore what public intoxication is, your rights when facing these charges, and why hiring a public intoxication attorney is crucial in such situations.
Public intoxication is often referred to as “drunk and disorderly” and “drunk in public”. Under California Penal Code Section 647(f), it is unlawful for a person to be in public “under the influence of any intoxicating liquor, drug, controlled substance or toluene… in a condition that he or she is unable to exercise care for their own safety or the safety of others”, or when a person under the influence “interferes with or obstructs or prevents the free use of any street, sidewalk, or other public way”.
If charged with public intoxication, do you need to hire an attorney? The short answer is yes. In fact, it’s in your best interest to do so, especially considering public intoxication laws vary from state to state. An experienced defense attorney can provide valuable guidance and representation throughout the legal process.
Your Rights
When you are arrested for public intoxication, it’s essential to understand your rights and the potential consequences you may face. Public intoxication charges can lead to various penalties, including:
– Depending on the severity of your offense and your prior record, you may be at risk of spending time in jail. The duration of your sentence will largely depend on state laws and the circumstances surrounding your arrest.
– Public intoxication convictions often result in fines, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, again depending on your location and the specifics of your case.
– In some instances, you may be required to attend alcohol education or treatment programs. These mandatory classes aim to address the underlying issues that led to your public intoxication arrest.
– Following a public intoxication charge, you may be prohibited from consuming alcohol or other intoxicants during a specified period. Violating these restrictions can lead to further legal consequences.
Understanding these potential outcomes underscores the importance of consulting with a public intoxication attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and work towards minimizing the impact of these consequences on your life.
Our Job
When faced with public intoxication charges, it’s essential to be aware of your rights and the potential consequences. Hiring a public intoxication lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. In some cases, a skilled attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to have the charges reduced or dismissed, potentially sparing you from a disorderly conduct conviction on your record.
At the Law Offices of David A. Stein, our job is to provide a strong defense, protect your rights, and work towards the best possible resolution for your situation. After a thorough case assessment, including the circumstances leading up to the charges and the actions of law enforcement officers involved, we will explore various defense strategies tailored to the specifics of your case.
This may include disputing whether you were truly a danger to yourself or others, highlighting any errors made by the arresting officer, or questioning the legality of your arrest. While we aim to protect your rights, we also acknowledge the importance of public safety. If your actions were harmless and non-disruptive, we will emphasize this aspect in your defense.
