What is a "disturbing the peace" charge?
Florida is a beautiful state that is home to many attractions and diverse cultures. With so many people and activities, it's no surprise that there are laws in place to maintain peace and order. One of these laws is the prohibition of public disturbance, which is taken very seriously in Florida. Public disturbance is defined as any act that disrupts the peace and quiet of a public area. This includes behavior that is loud, unruly, or offensive to others.
What are some examples of disturbing the peace?
Disturbing the peace is a broad term that covers various areas. Some of the most common examples include, but are not limited to:
Loud parties
Fighting
Excessive noise from vehicles (not just music)
Loud music at night
Roudy behavior
Explicit and/or offensive words or behavior
Allowing excessive animal noise in a residential area (such as barking dogs)
What are the penalties of disturbing the peace?
If you are caught causing a public disturbance in Florida, you can face serious penalties. The severity of the penalty depends on the specific circumstances of the offense and the discretion of the judge.
A first-time offense for public disturbance can result in a fine of up to $500 and/or up to 60 days in jail. Additionally, you may be required to perform community service or attend a mandatory anger management or conflict resolution course, depending on the offense.
If you are a repeat offender, the penalties become much harsher. A second offense can result in a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to 6 months in jail. A third offense is considered a felony and can result in up to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $5,000.
It's important to note that these penalties are not just limited to individuals. Business owners can also be held responsible for public disturbances that occur on their property. If a business is found to be in violation of the law, they may face fines, suspension of their license, or even permanent closure.
In addition to the legal penalties, public disturbance can also have a negative impact on your personal life. A conviction can appear on your criminal record, which can make it difficult to find employment or housing in the future. It can also damage your reputation and relationships with others.
To avoid facing penalties for public disturbance, it's important to be mindful of your behavior in public spaces. If you are hosting a gathering, be considerate of your neighbors and keep noise levels to a minimum. If you are out in public, avoid confrontations and try to stay calm in stressful situations.
Disclaimer: The content of this page is NOT a substitution for legal advice.
Have you been charged with disturbing the peace? Talk with Tallahassee Attorney and Lawyer Lee Meadows! Call (850) 244-8873 or Email meadowslegalteam@gmail.com!