Title: How Serious Is a Public Intoxication Charge?
Headings: How Serious Is a Public Intoxication Charge?
How Serious Is a Public Intoxication Charge?
Why Is Public Intoxication a Crime?
Defending a Public Intoxication Charge

Content: Depending on the state or locality, the charge for being drunk in public can be a misdemeanor or even simply an infraction, like a speeding ticket. But, unlike a speeding ticket, a public intoxication charge can result in being arrested and taken into custody by the police. Typically, a first or second offense will not have severe consequences, unless a person already has a criminal history, or is being charged with many other drunken crimes. However, the facts surrounding the arrest might convince a judge to require some alternative penalties, such as requiring a drug or alcohol treatment program. Penalties for being convicted of public intoxication will generally include fines and/or community service, and repeat offenders may have to spend a few days behind bars. Depending on the state and locality, the penalties may be harsher or more lenient. Why Is Public Intoxication a Crime? Very few people would dispute that their judgment is impaired when they are intoxicated. As such, when a person is intoxicated in public, the concern is that they will act in way that endangers not only their own safety, but the safety of others. In many jurisdictions, the crime is actually called drunk and disorderly conduct.