Michigan Disorderly Conduct Lawyers

Michigan Felony Disorderly Conduct

In most cases, disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor charge in Michigan. However, there are certain circumstances that can lead to a felony conviction, a much more serious crime. Picketing or demonstrating at a funeral can fall under disorderly conduct and can lead to a felony charge. Friedman Law Firm helps our clients fight all types of disorderly conduct charges, including those that could lead to a felony conviction.

Many states have laws against harassing those attending a funeral. Michigan protects those attending a funeral from feeling intimidated, harassed or threatened, charging anyone who violates this protection with a felony disorderly conduct charge. This law is under the Michigan penal code for Disorderly Persons, 750.167d. The law states that anyone that displays the following behaviors within 500 feet of a memorial, funeral, burial or funeral procession may be charged with felony disorderly conduct:

  • Making any statement or gesture to those attending a funeral that is meant to intimidate, harass or threaten them.
  • Making any statement or gesture that is intended to breach the peace during a funeral, burial or procession.
  • Making any statement or gesture that is intended to disrupt funeral proceedings, including burial, viewing, funeral service, procession or memorial service.

This law is meant to stop picketers or assemblies from disrupting any type of funeral service. The statements can be verbal, written or through actions that are targeted at anyone attending a funeral, burial or during the procession between these gatherings.

In addition to disrupting a funeral, there are other public misconduct acts that can lead to a felony charge in Michigan. Rioting or unlawful assembly are not technically listed under Disorderly Persons in the penal code, but can also be felony charges.

Penalties for Michigan Felony Disorderly Conduct

A felony is a serious charge that can affect your ability to obtain employment and pass criminal background checks for many other activities. In addition, the penalties for a felony disorderly conduct conviction are much steeper than those for misdemeanor charges. Penalties for felony disorderly conduct in Michigan can include:

  • For first offenses, violation of 750.167d is punishable with up to two years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines.
  • For subsequent offenses, felony disorderly conduct can lead to imprisonment of up to four years and a fine of up to $10,000.

Since this is a serious offense, it is recommended that you seek legal counsel for charges of felony disorderly conduct. Our lawyers at Friedman Law Firm can mitigate the circumstances surrounding your charge and explore options for reduction of the charge to a misdemeanor or pursue dismissal. Our team will use their expertise to help you avoid jail time and expensive fines, as well as keep a felony conviction off your permanent record.

Our Michigan Disorderly Conduct Attorneys Can Help

If you have been charged with Michigan felony disorderly conduct or any other public disturbance felony, you need legal representation to fight your case. Our experienced Michigan Disorderly Conduct Lawyers at Friedman Law Firm can fight on your behalf to reduce the charges or get a complete dismissal. Call our office to talk to one of our Michigan criminal defense attorneys to determine the best options for fighting your case.

Contact Friedman Law Firm today at 248-932-0900 and we will work with you to counter the charge with best defense possible.