GET HELP FROM CHICAGO CRIMINAL LAWYER ANDREW M. WEISBERG IF YOU HAVE BEEN CHARGED WITH DISORDERLY CONDUCT
A disorderly conduct charge in Chicago is far more serious than most people realize. Under Illinois law (720 ILCS 5/26-1), disorderly conduct can include everything from false fire alarms to threats made toward schools to certain privacy-related offenses. A conviction can bring fines up to $10,000, possible jail time, and a permanent criminal record that affects your job, housing, and reputation. With so much at stake, you need a skilled and aggressive defense attorney on your side.
TOUGHER ENFORCEMENT UNDER THE NEW COOK COUNTY STATE’S ATTORNEY
With a newly elected Cook County State’s Attorney, prosecutors are taking a stricter approach to disorderly conduct cases. Offenses that once resulted in supervision or fines are now being prosecuted more aggressively, with fewer plea deal opportunities and harsher sentencing recommendations. In this environment, having an experienced defense lawyer like Andrew M. Weisberg is essential to protect your rights and keep the consequences from spiraling out of control.
CHICAGO DISORDERLY CONDUCT ATTORNEY ANDREW M. WEISBERG CAN PROVIDE THE AGGRESSIVE DEFENSE YOU NEED
Depending on the specifics of the case, disorderly conduct can range from a Class C misdemeanor to a Class 3 or Class 4 felony. Many convictions also require 30 to 120 hours of community service. Even a misdemeanor conviction can leave you with a permanent criminal record, creating long-term problems in your personal and professional life.
As a seasoned Chicago criminal defense attorney, Andrew M. Weisberg understands how disorderly conduct cases are charged and prosecuted. Whether the goal is reducing the charges, minimizing penalties, or getting the case dismissed, he will fight for the best possible outcome.
ANDREW M. WEISBERG – DEFENDING YOU AGAINST DISORDERLY CONDUCT CHARGES IN CHICAGO
Disorderly conduct charges can escalate quickly—sometimes from a misunderstanding, a joke taken the wrong way, or an emotionally charged moment. But prosecutors and police often treat these cases seriously, especially in today’s heightened security climate.
Andrew M. Weisberg has extensive experience defending the full range of disorderly conduct-related offenses, including:
Disorderly Conduct – 720 ILCS 5/26-1
False Report of Theft or Other Losses – 720 ILCS 5/26-1.1
Interference with Emergency Communication – 720 ILCS 5/26-2
Use of Fax in Unsolicited Advertising or Soliciting – 720 ILCS 5/26-3
Unauthorized Video Recording or Live Transmission – 720 ILCS 5/26-4
Consumer Communications Privacy Violations – 720 ILCS 5/26-4.5
Disorderly Conduct at a Funeral or Memorial Service – 720 ILCS 5/26-6
Disorderly Conduct with a Laser or Laser Pointer – 720 ILCS 5/26-7
If you have been charged with any of these offenses, Andrew M. Weisberg is ready to provide the strong, strategic defense you need.
WHEN YOU NEED AN AGGRESSIVE AND EXPERIENCED DISORDERLY CONDUCT LAWYER – ANDREW M. WEISBERG
Before becoming a top Chicago defense attorney, Andrew M. Weisberg served as a felony prosecutor in the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. This gives him unique insight into how prosecutors think, how they build their cases, and where their weaknesses are. He uses that knowledge to anticipate their strategies and counter them effectively.
His meticulous approach ensures every detail of your case is examined, every piece of evidence is reviewed, and every defense strategy is explored.
EXPERIENCED AND KNOWLEDGEABLE – CHICAGO CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY ANDREW M. WEISBERG
A disorderly conduct charge may seem minor, but the consequences can follow you for years. Employers, landlords, and schools routinely check criminal backgrounds, and a conviction can limit your opportunities.
Andrew M. Weisberg is known for his aggressive approach to defending clients and his commitment to protecting their rights. He treats every case seriously and every client with respect and dignity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Disorderly Conduct in Illinois
What is disorderly conduct under Illinois law?
Disorderly conduct, defined under 720 ILCS 5/26-1, covers a wide range of conduct that the law considers unreasonable, alarming, or disruptive. This includes causing a public disturbance, making false reports to police, acting in a threatening manner, or behaving in a way that disturbs others. Because the statute is broad, many different situations can result in a charge.
Is disorderly conduct a misdemeanor or a felony?
Most disorderly conduct charges are Class C or Class A misdemeanors, depending on the behavior involved. However, certain types—especially making a false report to police, fire departments, or 911—can be charged as Class 4 felonies. Penalties increase significantly when schools or public safety agencies are involved.
What are the penalties for a disorderly conduct conviction?
Penalties depend on the level of the offense but may include up to 30 days in jail for a Class C misdemeanor, up to 364 days for a Class A misdemeanor, fines up to $2,500, probation, community service, restitution, and a permanent criminal record. Felony disorderly conduct carries one to three years in prison.
Can I be charged even if no one was harmed?
Yes. Disorderly conduct does not require physical injury. The statute focuses on the disturbance, alarm, or disruption caused by the conduct, not on actual harm. Prosecutors often file charges based solely on the reactions or complaints of others.
Is yelling or arguing in public enough to be charged?
Possibly. If the behavior is loud, unreasonable, threatening, or creates a risk of disturbance, police may consider it disorderly conduct. Officers often use this charge in situations involving public arguments, intoxication, neighbor disputes, or disturbances at businesses.
What if the police overreacted or misinterpreted the situation?
This is common. Many disorderly conduct cases depend heavily on officer discretion, which can sometimes lead to exaggerated or unnecessary charges. An attorney can challenge the officer’s interpretation, highlight inconsistencies, and expose overreach in the arrest.
Can disorderly conduct charges be dismissed?
Yes. Because these cases often involve minimal or subjective evidence, an attorney may be able to negotiate a dismissal, secure supervision, or have charges reduced. Weak or inconsistent witness statements often lead to favorable resolutions.
Will a disorderly conduct conviction affect my record?
Yes. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can impact employment, housing, licensing, or immigration. However, certain outcomes—such as successful completion of court supervision—may later be eligible for expungement or sealing.
What if I was simply exercising free speech?
The First Amendment protects speech, but not all speech is protected. Threats, incitement, or conduct that creates a clear risk of disturbance may fall outside constitutional protection. Your attorney can analyze whether your conduct was legally protected and challenge the charge accordingly.
Do I need a lawyer for a disorderly conduct charge?
Yes. Even though some disorderly conduct offenses are misdemeanors, the consequences can be significant. An attorney can evaluate the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, identify defenses, and help protect your record and your future.
CONTACT ANDREW M. WEISBERG WHEN YOU NEED A CHICAGO DISORDERLY CONDUCT LAWYER
If you have been arrested for disorderly conduct in Chicago—whether the allegations seem minor or complicated—you need an attorney who knows how to fight these cases.
A former felony prosecutor, Andrew M. Weisberg has handled every type of disorderly conduct and related charge and knows how to build a powerful defense.
To reach Andrew quickly and directly, call his cell phone 24/7 at (773) 908-9811, or fill out the Case Review form on our website. Your consultation is free, and the sooner you take action, the better your chances of a favorable result.
