Can a Disorderly Conduct Ticket Affect Employment in Wisconsin?

 Posted on August 24,2020 in Criminal Defense

A disorderly conduct ticket could result from a number of different circumstances. No matter where you are — a restaurant, bar, or beach front — it is not uncommon to witness an individual display unruly behavior. Wisconsin law defines disorderly conduct as indecent, violent, profane, boisterous, abusive, unreasonably loud, or otherwise disorderly behavior that provokes or causes a disturbance in a public or private area. If you have been issued a disorderly conduct ticket, it is critical that you contact a criminal defense attorney right away to avoid further criminal consequences.

Disorderly Conduct Penalties

Depending on the severity of the disorderly conduct ticket, several different penalties could arise, such as: 

• Fines. The highest possible fine is $1,000 and the amount owed is determined by the court.
• Time behind bars. A jail sentence of up to 90 days can be mandated.
• A probation agreement. This may include an order for the defendant to be enrolled in counselling such as therapy or anger management courses.
• Community service hours. The court may require the defendant to complete services for public institutions in exchange for a smaller sentence.
• Weapon restrictions. If a firearm was used in the disorderly conduct incident, the court can order that the defendant may not possess a firearm for a certain length of time.
• A restraining order. This would include an order to avoid contact with the victim and his or her whereabouts, such as home and place of employment.

Collateral Consequences

As with any conviction, a finding of guilt can cause various collateral consequences. If you have been charged with a disorderly conduct ticket and are seeking employment, you might not be considered because the employer may believe you will exhibit chaotic and/or violent behavior while at work. Additionally, if you are looking to rent an apartment or a house, the landlord might not accept your application in fear that you will disturb those living in the complex or surrounding community. There are several long-lasting negative effects of a disorderly conduct charge, so it is important to explore all potential defenses. An experienced criminal lawyer can help reduce or dismiss your charges altogether. 

Contact a Milwaukee, WI Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal charges can carry long-lasting consequences, even for disorderly conduct. To avoid significant disruption within your life, contact a qualified Milwaukee, WI criminal defense attorney from Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP immediately. Our legal team will protect your rights while providing skilled representation on your behalf. Call our office today at 414-271-1440 to schedule your confidential consultation.

Source:

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/947/01