Title: Public Intoxication Laws and Penalties | CriminalDefenseLawyer.com
Headings: Public Intoxication Laws and Penalties
Public Intoxication Laws and Penalties
Public intoxication, drunk in public, drunk and disorderly conduct - all refer to the same crime that's treated differently by each state.
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What is Public Intoxication?
Appearing in a public place
Being under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, a controlled substance or other intoxicant
Causing disturbance or harm to other persons or property or presenting a danger to oneself
Public Intoxication Penalties
Potential Defenses to Public Intoxication Charges
Public Intoxication Laws by State
Additional Information
Get Legal Help for Public Intoxication

Content: However, in most states, the definition of "disturbance" is very broad—some states include actions such as blocking sidewalks or using offensive language. Further, if an officer believes that a person's intoxication is posing a threat to that person's own safety, he may be taken into custody and charged with this offense. Learn about your State's DUI/DWI laws. Public Intoxication Penalties
The consequences for those convicted of public intoxication will depend on how the state  (or municipality) has classified the behavior—as a crime or a medical condition. Public intoxication as a crime. In the majority of states with public intoxication laws, public intoxication is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by fines, jail time, probation, or community service. For example, a first offense for public intoxication in Indiana may be punished with up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. In California, public intoxication is a misdemeanor. However, if the defendant is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol only, rather than illegal drugs, the law enforcement officer must bring the defendant to a "sobering facility," where he will remain for up to 72 hours. If the defendant is taken to a "sobering facility," no criminal charges will be brought based solely upon the defendant's intoxication.