Orlando Disorderly Intoxication Lawyer

YOUR FUTURE IS ALL THAT MATTERS

VIEW OUR OFFICE LOCATIONS

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orlando, FL | Hanlon Law

Disorderly Intoxication Attorney in Orlando, Florida

Being arrested can be a shocking and stressful experience, particularly for individuals who have never been involved with the criminal justice system before. In many situations, law enforcement officers must make quick decisions based on their observations at the scene. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to arrests that occur with limited investigation or without a full understanding of the circumstances involved.

One offense that often arises in these situations is disorderly intoxication. Although it is typically classified as a misdemeanor, a conviction can still leave a lasting impact on your criminal record and future opportunities. If you have been arrested for disorderly intoxication in Orlando, it is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

At Hanlon Law, Orlando criminal defense attorney Will Hanlon represents individuals facing a wide range of misdemeanor and criminal charges throughout Central Florida.

What Is Disorderly Intoxication in Florida?

Disorderly intoxication is prohibited under Florida Statute 856.011. The statute makes it unlawful for a person to be intoxicated in a public place under certain circumstances.

A person may be charged with disorderly intoxication if they are allegedly intoxicated and:

Endanger the safety of another person or property, or
Cause a public disturbance

Because these terms can be interpreted in different ways, disorderly intoxication cases often depend heavily on the observations and testimony of law enforcement officers.

How Disorderly Intoxication Charges Occur in Orlando, Florida

Disorderly intoxication arrests frequently occur in situations where alcohol consumption takes place in public settings. These may include areas such as:

Bars or nightlife districts
Sporting events
Concert venues
Public streets or parks

In some cases, officers may determine that an individual’s behavior has become disruptive or potentially dangerous due to intoxication. However, what qualifies as a “public disturbance” or “endangering the safety of others” can sometimes be subjective.

Because of this, individuals may face criminal charges even when they did not intend to cause harm or disruption.

Potential Penalties for Disorderly Intoxication in Orlando, Florida

Under Florida law, disorderly intoxication is typically charged as a second-degree misdemeanor. A conviction may carry penalties such as:

Up to 60 days in jail
Up to six months of probation
Fines and court costs

Although these penalties may appear relatively minor compared to felony charges, a criminal conviction can still create lasting consequences. A permanent criminal record may affect employment opportunities, educational prospects, housing applications, and other aspects of daily life.

Repeat Offenses and Additional Consequences in Orlando, Florida

Individuals who are charged with disorderly intoxication multiple times within a short period may face additional legal consequences. Under certain circumstances, a person who is convicted of three disorderly intoxication offenses within one year may be ordered by the court to participate in substance abuse treatment or rehabilitation programs.

While these situations are not common, they demonstrate how repeated charges can result in more significant legal intervention.

Defending Against Disorderly Intoxication Charges in Orlando, Florida

Each disorderly intoxication case is unique, and the available defense strategies will depend on the facts surrounding the arrest. An experienced defense attorney may examine factors such as:

Whether the defendant was actually intoxicated under the law
Whether their conduct truly endangered others or caused a disturbance
Whether law enforcement had sufficient evidence to support the arrest

In some situations, legal strategies may focus on resolving the case in a way that protects the client’s long-term interests, including options that may allow for record sealing or expungement if certain conditions are met.

Contact an Orlando Criminal Defense Attorney

Even misdemeanor charges should be taken seriously. A disorderly intoxication arrest can affect your future, and having knowledgeable legal representation can make an important difference in how your case is resolved.

At Hanlon Law, we are committed to providing strong and effective criminal defense representation for clients throughout Orlando and Central Florida. Our firm carefully evaluates every case and works to protect the rights and futures of those we represent.

If you have been charged with disorderly intoxication in Orlando, call Hanlon Law at (407) 987-3836 or contact us online today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about your legal options.