Disorderly Conduct Attorney
A disorderly conduct charge is often used as a catch-all when officers aren’t sure what else to charge, which means the statutory elements matter more than they might first appear. At DeVore Law, PLLC, disorderly conduct charges are handled exclusively by Devin S. DeVore, who represents clients throughout Knoxville and East Tennessee.
Because the standard is broad, distinguishing protected conduct from actual disorderly conduct is often the core of the defense.
Disorderly Conduct in Tennessee — What You Need to Know
Tennessee’s disorderly conduct statute covers fighting or engaging in violent behavior, making unreasonable noise or disturbing a lawful assembly, and creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition without legal justification.
Disorderly conduct is a Class C misdemeanor, carrying up to 30 days in jail and a fine up to $50.
How DeVore Law, PLLC Can Help
A disorderly conduct charge is often used as a catch-all when officers aren’t sure what else to charge, which means the statutory elements matter more than they might first appear. At DeVore Law, PLLC, disorderly conduct charges are handled exclusively by Devin S. DeVore, who represents clients throughout Knoxville and East Tennessee. Because the standard is broad, distinguishing protected conduct from actual disorderly conduct is often the core of the defense.
The Disorderly Conduct Case Timeline
Here is how a typical case moves through the system:
What the Statute Covers
Fighting or Violent Behavior
Physical altercations or threats of violence in a public setting.
Unreasonable Noise
Conduct disturbing a lawful assembly or meeting to an unreasonable degree.
Hazardous or Offensive Conditions
Creating a physically offensive or hazardous condition without any legitimate purpose.
Common Areas of Focus
Protected Speech and Assembly
Loud or unpopular speech alone is not disorderly conduct, and this distinction matters in cases arising from protests or public disputes.
Body Cam Review
Officer narratives describing disruptive behavior don’t always match what available video actually shows.
Legal Justification
The statute requires the conduct to lack legal justification, which opens the door to context-based defenses.
First-Time Offender Options
Many first-time disorderly conduct cases qualify for diversion, keeping the charge off the client’s record.
What to Expect — The Defense Process
While each case differs, most Knoxville disorderly conduct cases follow these general stages:
01
Case Review
We review the citation, any available video, and witness statements.
02
Diversion Evaluation
For eligible clients, we pursue diversion to avoid a permanent conviction.
03
Negotiation
Where diversion isn’t available, we negotiate the most favorable resolution.
04
Resolution
We finalize the case through dismissal, diversion, plea, or trial.
Why Work With Devin DeVore for Your Disorderly Conduct Case
Disorderly conduct defense at DeVore Law, PLLC is not delegated between attorneys. Devin DeVore personally handles every case, offering:
Direct access to your attorney
Personal handling of every case
Membership in the Tennessee and Knoxville Bar Associations
Familiarity with local courts and diversion programs
Practical advice focused on protecting your record
Speak With a Disorderly Conduct Attorney
If you’ve been charged with disorderly conduct, Devin DeVore can review the facts and help you understand your defense.
Contact DeVore Law, PLLC to schedule a consultation.