What is a Public Intoxication Charge in Pennsylvania?

Public Intoxication

In Pennsylvania, a person can be found guilty of public intoxication if they are in any public place while clearly under the influence of alcohol. That is, they are drunk to a degree in which they could endanger themselves or to the people and property around them.

That being said, it is not uncommon for law enforcement to use this charge on people they assume are drunk but have no other charges they can use against them. Many people enjoy being out and about in Pittsburgh and sometimes their fun involves having some drinks. However, there are times when drinking can lead to the police being called, and you facing serious charges.

Being arrested and charged with public intoxication should not be taken lightly.

What is a Public Intoxication Charge in Pittsburgh?

The official penalties for a public intoxication charge is a summary offense, and a person convicted of public drunkenness can be sentenced to 90 days in jail and face a fine of up to $500 for the first violation. They can face a fine of up to $1,000 for a second offense and each subsequent offense.

Aside from the official legal ramifications, there are other consequences you need to keep in mind. These include:

  • Having trouble getting a job due to a conviction.
  • Not being able to get into school (college, law school, medical school, etc.) because of a conviction.

At SMT Legal, we are here to help you get through this. You do not want to take any chances, regardless of how “minor” you think the charges are. They can affect you for years to come. Let out team get to work investigating the evidence being used against you so we can work to get your charges reduced or dismissed.

We know that the commonwealth has to prove that you were intoxicated and that you were a danger or annoyance to yourself or the public. We will work to show that you were none of these things by gathering evidence such as eyewitness accounts or surveillance that contradicts officer statements.

When you need a public intoxication attorney in Pittsburgh, you can contact us for a free consultation.

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