Disorderly Conduct in Minnesota: What It Means and What to Do If You’re Charged
By Sullivan Rice
Celebrations, stressful situations, misunderstandings, and alcohol can all escalate quickly—especially during busy times like holidays or large public events. In Minnesota, many of these situations result in a disorderly conduct charge, one of the most commonly charged offenses in the state. While it may sound minor, a disorderly conduct conviction can have lasting consequences.
What Is Disorderly Conduct in Minnesota?
Under Minnesota Statute § 609.72, a person may be charged with disorderly conduct if they engage in behavior that is likely to alarm, anger, or disturb others. This can include:
Fighting or threatening behavior
Loud, aggressive, or abusive language
Unreasonable noise in public
Offensive or obscene conduct
Disruptive behavior while intoxicated
Importantly, disorderly conduct is highly subjective. What one officer considers “disorderly,” another may see as protected speech or normal behavior under stressful circumstances.
Is Disorderly Conduct a Misdemeanor?
Yes. In most cases, disorderly conduct is charged as a misdemeanor, punishable by:
Up to 90 days in jail
A $1,000 fine
Or both
Even though it’s a misdemeanor, a conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can show up on background checks for jobs, housing, or professional licenses.
Common Situations That Lead to Disorderly Conduct Charges
Disorderly conduct charges often arise from situations such as:
Arguments at bars or parties
Encounters with law enforcement
Domestic or family disputes
Public intoxication incidents
Sporting events or public gatherings
In many cases, no one is hurt and no property is damaged—but an arrest is still made.
Can You Be Charged for Speech Alone?
Minnesota law does not allow disorderly conduct charges based solely on speech unless it falls outside First Amendment protections. However, speech combined with behavior—or speech perceived as threatening—often leads to charges. These cases are frequently defensible with experienced legal representation.
Defenses to Disorderly Conduct Charges
Every case is different, but common defenses include:
Protected free speech
Lack of intent to disturb others
Officer misinterpretation or overreach
Insufficient evidence
Escalation caused by alcohol without criminal conduct
Because the statute is broad, many disorderly conduct cases can be dismissed, reduced, or resolved without a conviction.
What Should You Do If You’re Charged?
If you’re charged with disorderly conduct:
Do not assume it’s “no big deal.”
Avoid discussing the incident publicly or on social media.
Speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome.
How Jack Rice Defense Can Help
At Jack Rice Defense, we understand that disorderly conduct charges often arise from emotionally charged or misunderstood situations—not from criminal intent. We work to protect your rights, challenge weak evidence, and pursue outcomes that avoid long-term consequences whenever possible.
If you or someone you love is facing a disorderly conduct charge in Minnesota, getting informed and getting help early is critical.
