What is Public Drunkenness?
What is Public Drunkenness?
Public Drunkenness, or Public Intoxication, is the crime of being intoxicated in a public place, even if you are of the legal drinking age. Persons under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal drugs may be cited or arrested for public intoxication. Public Intoxication is usually a misdemeanor. What Does Intoxication Mean?
Intoxication is often defined as having a blood alcohol content (BAC) above the legal limit, which is .08 percent in many states. An individual may also be considered intoxicated if they have lost their normal mental and/or physical capabilities. Most states require that a person be intoxicated to the degree that they are a potential danger to themselves or to others in order to constitute public intoxication. What Happens if I Am Arrested for Public Intoxication?
Depending on the law of the state you are in, the police may have several options or procedures when they suspect public intoxication. These procedures include: - Citing the individual and escorting them home
- Citing the individual and releasing them to a guardian or responsible party
- Taking the individual to jail or a "detoxification" center
- Requiring the individual to post bail prior to release from jail
What Are the Possible Legal Consequences of Public Intoxication? - Citations
- Fines
- Brief Imprisonment
- Probation
- Offense on your Permanent Criminal Record
What Should I Do if I Am Charged with Public Intoxication?
If you are charged with public intoxication, a criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your rights and legal defenses, and guide you through the complicated legal process. |
