Public Intoxication Lawyer in Lexington, SC

Known as disorderly conduct in South Carolina, public intoxication can tarnish your good name and leave you with a criminal record. A misdemeanor offense, disorderly conduct can prevent you from getting the education you deserve or pursuing your ideal career path. You may even be unable to take out a home loan, find a well-paying job, or see your children.

At Kinard Law Group, we believe that one night out should not determine your future prospects. If you or a loved one has been accused of engaging in drunken behavior that put others at risk of harm, our Lexington public intoxication attorneys would like to hear from you.

What is Considered Public Intoxication in South Carolina?

South Carolina defines public intoxication as either:

• Being found on a highway, public place, or public gathering in a grossly intoxicated state; or
• Using obscene or profane language on a highway, public place, or gathering within hearing distance of a school or church; or
• While intoxicated or pretending to be intoxicated, discharging a gun, pistol, or firearm within 50 yards of a public road or highway (except if you are on your own property).

SC Penalties for Public Intoxication

If you are a first-time offender, you may be eligible for conditional discharge. This program involves attending treatment programs and performing a certain number of hours of community service as determined by the court. Although you will enter a guilty plea, successful completion of the program can result in dismissal of the charges. An experienced criminal defense attorney can advise you on whether you qualify and what the process involves.

Challenging Accusations; Avoiding a Criminal Record

If you have been accused of gross intoxication in public, it is important to get ahead of the charges. Although a minor offense, a disorderly conduct conviction can follow you for the rest of your life. It can prevent you from finding suitable employment, decent housing, and being granted custody of your children.

You want a legal team that can challenge government accusations to help you avoid criminal penalties. At Kinard Law Group, our Lexington public intoxication lawyers provide aggressive representation to those who have ended up on the wrong side of the law. If you are concerned about the ramifications from one misguided night out, we are happy to evaluate your case to determine what defenses may be applicable.

For example, if you were accused of vulgar or offensive language, your actions may be protected under the First Amendment. Alternatively, if you were involved in a physical altercation, you may be able to raise a self-defense claim. From there, we will find evidence that supports our legal theory, demonstrating to a jury that your actions were justified.

Contact Our Lexington Public Intoxication Lawyers Today

If you have been accused of public intoxication, our criminal defense attorneys would like to speak with you. When you hire the legal team at Kinard Law Group, you are working with counsel that takes a personal interest in your case. Helping you reach a favorable outcome means the world to us. To schedule your consultation with one of our Lexington public intoxication attorneys, we can be reached online or by calling (803) 359-1003 today.