What is Considered Disorderly Conduct in Illinois?

Disorderly conduct is one of those charges that can sneak up on you. In Illinois, it’s a broad charge that covers a lot of ground. Some things might seem harmless at first but under the law can get you in big trouble. If you’re facing this type of charge, you need to know what constitutes disorderly conduct and how it can affect you.

How Illinois Defines Disorderly Conduct

Illinois law defines disorderly conduct under 720 ILCS 5/26-1. At its core, the law makes it illegal to act in a way that disturbs, alarms or disrupts others. It’s a big law and the types of behavior that fall under it can vary.

Here are some examples of behavior that might get you charged:

• False Reports: Calling in fake emergencies like reporting a fire or crime that didn’t happen, can cause panic and waste valuable public resources.
• Disturbing the Peace: Loud arguments or other disruptive behavior in public places like a sidewalk or park can be disorderly conduct.
• Public Indecency: Public urination or other inappropriate behavior in public can get you charged if others are disturbed or offended.
• Harassing Communications: Repeated phone calls or messages that intimidate or threaten someone can qualify, especially in debt collection or personal disputes.
• Improper Use of Emergency Services: Misusing 911 or pulling a fire alarm when there’s no emergency is a serious offense under this law.

Some of these might not seem like a big deal but they can get you charged in Illinois.

Common Scenarios That Get You Charged

Disorderly conduct in Illinois doesn’t always involve dramatic situations. In fact many cases start with everyday misunderstandings or public disturbances.

1. Public Arguments

A heated argument between friends, partners or strangers can quickly attract attention. If it gets loud enough to make people nearby feel uncomfortable or alarmed, it could be disorderly conduct.

2. False Emergency Reports

If someone calls 911 or reports a crime that didn’t actually happen it can get you in big trouble. Even if the intention was not to cause harm, false reports are taken seriously by the courts.

3. Public Urination

Although it might seem minor, public urination is a common reason people get charged with disorderly conduct. It’s seen as disruptive and offensive in public.

4. Threats or Harassment

Sending threatening messages or making repeated phone calls to intimidate someone, whether in person or onlin,e can also qualify as disorderly conduct.

What Are the Potential Penalties?

The consequences of disorderly conduct in Illinois vary depending on the facts of the case. The charge can be a misdemeanor or felony.

• Class C Misdemeanor: Up to 30 days in jail and fines from $75 to $1,500.
• Class B Misdemeanor: Up to six months in jail with similar fines.
• Class A Misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
• Felony Charges: If the conduct involves serious false reports like bomb threats or false reports of crimes, the charge can be a Class 4 or Class 3 felony. These can get you prison time and higher fines.

In some cases, you may also have to do community service or pay back the cost of emergency services.

How to Defend Against the Illinois Disorderly Conduct

A disorderly conduct charge is not the end of the road. There are legal defenses that can get the charge reduced or dismissed.

• Lack of Intent: If there was no intent to disturb or alarm others, your attorney may argue the charge doesn’t apply.
• Misunderstanding: Sometimes, a situation is misunderstood. If you made a report that you thought was valid, that can be a defense.
• No Real Disturbance: If your actions didn’t really alarm or disrupt others, your lawyer may argue the behavior didn’t meet the legal definition of disorderly conduct.
• Rights Violations: If your rights were violated during the arrest or if there wasn’t a good reason for law enforcement to act the case may be thrown out.

Talk to Sami Azhari if You’ve Been Charged

Being charged with disorderly conduct is stressful, but you don’t have to face it on your own. Having a lawyer by your side can make a big difference in how your case is handled.

Sami Azhari is an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows how to build strong, personalized legal strategies. He’ll take the time to understand your case, explain your options, and work to protect your future.

Call Azhari LLC today to get started with a consultation.