Can I Get My Public Intoxication Charge Dismissed?

When most people think about drinking alcohol and possible repercussions, their minds tend to go to DUI arrests. After all, with the numerous campaigns against drunk driving, it is too easy to forget that there is another potential consequence of drinking alcohol — a public intoxication offense.

Did You Know That Being Drunk In Public Is Against The Law?

It is, according to California Penal code section 647(f). Based on the law, anyone who commits the following is guilty of a misdemeanor offense:

“Who is found in any public place under the influence of intoxicating liquor, any drug, controlled substance, toluene, or any combination of any intoxicating liquor, drug, controlled substance, or toluene, in a condition that he or she is unable to exercise care for his or her own safety or the safety of others, or by reason of his or her being under the influence of intoxicating liquor, any drug, controlled substance, toluene, or any combination of any intoxicating liquor, drug, or toluene, interferes with or obstructs or prevents the free use of any street, sidewalk, or other public way.”

You don’t have to be behind the wheel to get charged with a criminal offense — you simply have to be in public. Even though this infraction is considered a misdemeanor, it could still appear on your criminal record and ultimately impact your future.

It Is Possible To Get Your Public Intoxication Charge Dismissed?

There are many defenses when it comes to public intoxication cases. We are often able to obtain full dismissals for our clients accused of public intoxication. Not only does a dismissal help our clients avoid a conviction on their record, but it also eliminates the possibility of jail time. As a result of our negotiation, one of our clients had to serve only five days of community service for the alleged event.

If you have been accused of public intoxication in Los Angeles, know that there is hope. However, that hope will come with the help of an experienced Torrance criminal defense attorney like the partners at Ernenwein & Mathes, LLP.

Have you or someone you know been charged with public intoxication or any other crime? Contact Ernenwein & Mathes, LLP, Los Angeles and Orange County criminal defense lawyers, today at 424-552-3901 for a free case review.