Do You Go to Jail for Disorderly Conduct in Maryland?

 Posted on February 28, 2025 in Criminal Defense

If you or someone you love was arrested for disorderly conduct in Maryland, you are probably wondering what happens next. Will you go to jail? Will this charge stay on your record? Can you fight it?

Disorderly conduct is one of the most common criminal charges in Ocean City and across Maryland, especially in busy public areas like boardwalks, bars, concerts, and protests. But just because it is common does not mean it is not serious or that you would not benefit from representation from a Maryland criminal defense lawyer. Here is what you need to know.

What Counts as Disorderly Conduct in Maryland?

Maryland law covers a wide range of behaviors that disturb the peace, including:

• Fighting or causing loud disturbances in public (yelling, screaming, or provoking fights)

• Blocking traffic or public pathways (like standing in the middle of a street, sidewalk, or entrance)

• Refusing to leave a public place when ordered (including businesses, bars, or government buildings)

• Obstructing emergency personnel (ignoring police, EMTs, or firefighters at a scene of an emergency)

• Making a public scene that alarms others (like being drunk and disruptive in a restaurant or event)

If you were drunk in public and got rowdy, refused to leave a bar when asked, or disrupted a busy area, there is a good chance you were charged with disorderly conduct.

Will You Go to Jail for Disorderly Conduct?

Disorderly conduct in Maryland is a misdemeanor, but that does not mean it is just a slap on the wrist. The penalties can include up to 60 days in jail, up to $500 in fines, and a permanent criminal record. Most first-time offenders do not serve jail time — especially if they have a clean record. However, if your case involves violence, repeated offenses, or failure to comply with police orders, the chances of jail time increase.

Can You Get Disorderly Charges Dropped?

It is sometimes possible and sensible to fight a disorderly conduct charge, especially if you were wrongfully accused or the situation was blown out of proportion. A defense attorney can argue that:

• You were falsely accused (police often arrest the loudest person in a group, even if they were not causing trouble)

• Your actions were not disruptive (simply being loud or annoying does not always qualify as disorderly conduct)

• Your First Amendment rights were violated (protests and public speech are protected under the law)

• There is no evidence of a crime (if no one actually complained or was disturbed, the charge may not hold up)

Call a Worcester County, MD Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you or your spouse were arrested for disorderly conduct, do not ignore the charge, even if it seems minor. A conviction could stay on your record and affect job opportunities, background checks, and even security clearances.

At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, our Ocean City, MD criminal defense attorneys help clients against disorderly conduct charges across Maryland. Call 410-280-2500 for a free consultation and find out how we can help protect your record and your future.