Santa Barbara Public Intoxication Lawyer

Legal Representation You Can Count On

Public intoxication cases can involve an individual fighting in a bar or passed out on a sidewalk. While being drunk in a public area is not a crime in itself, it can be in very specific circumstances. Were you arrested for public intoxication? Our Santa Barbara defense attorneys at Appel & Morse can review your case and determine whether your charges are valid. We will look into the details of your charges and look for witnesses, scrutinize police reports, and assess whether or not your rights were violated at any point by law enforcement.

Take a look at the benefits of hiring our firm:

• More than three decades of collective experience
• Experience of former prosecutor
• Personalized legal service
• Available for appointments on evenings & weekends

Contact our criminal attorneys today to learn more about your case! We offer free case evaluations.

Will I be sent to jail for disorderly conduct?

You could simply be placed in protective custody for being drunk in public and avoid criminal prosecution unless you were under the influence of any drug or a combination of alcohol and drugs. If the arresting officer believed you committed a felony or misdemeanor while under the influence or believed you would escape or be unreasonably difficult for medical personnel to control, then you may face charges.

If you were arrested for disorderly conduct, the state must prove the following:

• You were under the influence of alcohol, any drug and/or an inhalant.
• You were in a public place.
• You were unable to exercise care for your own safety or for the safety of others.
• You interfered, obstructed, or prevented the use of a street, sidewalk, or other public thoroughfares.

If you are convicted of disorderly conduct, it is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Public intoxication requires a much higher level of insobriety in comparison to a DUI charge. Simply being above the maximum BAC limit of .08 is usually not enough to be convicted of a public intoxication charge.

Explore Your Options During a Free criminal Case Evaluation with Appel & Morse!

For more information about public intoxication charges and to retain the experienced legal defense you deserve in your corner, call Appel & Morse today! We are known for our personalized attention and individualized case strategies. Our firm is also available for appointments on the weekends and during the evenings. Whenever you need us, you can count on us to be there for you.

Receive a free case review with our Santa Barbara criminal defense lawyer when you call!