Sandy Springs uses disorderly conduct charges to prosecute a wide range of activity within the City. Under the Sandy Springs code, disorderly conduct can involve:
- Fighting or acting in a violent manner
- Gaming or gambling
- Engaging in fraud
- Engaging in illegal alcohol or drug sales
- Obstructing traffic or people
- Being disruptive at certain places like hospitals
- Littering
While this list is not comprehensive, it covers the most common uses for the Sandy Springs Disorderly Conduct laws. Under the law, disorderly conduct is a local ordinance charge in Sandy Springs, meaning you must have all hearings and even trial in Sandy Springs. You do not have the right to a jury trial by having the case transferred to Fulton County. As a local ordinance, disorderly conduct is punishable by a maximum of 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
In addition to fines and jail time, disorderly conduct charges can be punished by the judge ordering community service, drug and alcohol testing, drug and alcohol rehabilitation courses, substance abuse evaluations, and other courses or activities.
Once you attend court in Sandy Springs, your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor to attempt to reach a plea agreement to close your case. If a plea agreement cannot be reached after the first few court dates, your case will likely be set down for a trial. At trial, the Sandy Springs prosecutor would have the officer testify along with any other witnesses for their case. A judge would then decide your guilt or innocence and impose punishment if you are found guilty.
It is not wise to go into Sandy Springs and attempt to defend yourself against disorderly conduct charges. The city prosecutors are very experienced and it's not a fair fight to take them on without a defense lawyer. Our firm represents dozens of clients a year in Sandy Springs charged with disorderly conduct and like offenses and will negotiate all stages of your case with the prosecutor. If you have been charged with d.c. in Sandy Springs, or a similar offense, call us today to discuss your defense, or email us at help@zwdefense.com.