If you’re facing disorderly conduct charges in Maryland, you may wonder what comes next. This is a common misdemeanor charge, but that doesn’t mean it’s not severe.
A conviction for disorderly conduct can stay on your record for years and can impact your future job prospects, among other things.
This blog post will discuss disorderly conduct in Maryland and how you can fight the charge. Read to the end and get a free criminal case consultation.
Table of Contents
What Makes You Guilty of Maryland Disorderly Conduct?
Maryland disorderly conduct laws (Md. Code § 10-201) define what constitutes disorderly conduct. There are five ways the police can try to convict you of disorderly conduct in Maryland. They are:
- A person may not willfully and without a lawful purpose obstruct or hinder the free passage of another in a public place or on a public conveyance.
- A person may not willfully act in a disorderly manner that disturbs the public peace.
- A person may not willfully fail to obey a reasonable and lawful order that a law enforcement officer makes to prevent a disturbance to the public peace.
- A person who enters the land or premises of another, whether an owner or lessee, or a beach adjacent to residential riparian property, may not willfully:
- (i) disturb the peace of persons on the land, premises, or beach by making an unreasonably loud noise; or
- (ii) act in a disorderly manner.
- A person from any location may not, by making an unreasonably loud noise, willfully disturb the peace of another:
- on the other’s land or premises;
- in a public place; or
- on a public conveyance.
If the police can prove any of these things, you may have a disorderly conduct conviction on your record.
What Are the Penalties for Disorderly Conduct in Maryland?
Although disorderly conduct is classified as a misdemeanor in Maryland, the consequences can still be significant—especially if you don’t fight the charge. Under Maryland Criminal Law § 10-201, a conviction can lead to both criminal penalties and long-term personal consequences.
Here’s what you could be facing if convicted:
Criminal Penalties
- Jail Time: Up to 60 days in jail
- Fines: Up to $500
- In some cases, both jail time and a fine can be imposed.
Even though this may seem minor compared to a felony, a misdemeanor conviction still creates a permanent criminal record, which can affect your future in many ways.
Other Consequences
- Employment Issues: Many employers conduct background checks, and a disorderly conduct conviction may raise red flags.
- College & Scholarships: Students can lose scholarships or face disciplinary action from schools.
- Security Clearances: A criminal record can put your government or military clearance at risk.
- Immigration Problems: If you’re not a U.S. citizen, any criminal conviction could impact your immigration status.
The court may also impose probation conditions like community service, mandatory counseling, or staying away from certain locations or individuals.
How Can You Fight a Disorderly Conduct Maryland Charge?
Being arrested for disorderly conduct does not mean you will be convicted of the crime. Our attorneys, Justin Eisele and Mirriam Z. Seddiq, are here to raise reasonable doubt on your behalf. For example, you may establish that:
- The prosecutor cannot prove its case against you
- You were exercising your right to free speech
- Your actions were not directed at any specific person or people
- You lacked the intent to commit the crime.
Every case is different, and a good Maryland criminal defense lawyer will walk you through every step of the way to prepare defenses customized to your situation.
Your Rights When Confronted by Police in a Disorderly Conduct Situation
Getting stopped or questioned by the police can be stressful, especially if you’re being accused of disorderly conduct. But it’s important to remember: you still have rights. Knowing how to assert them calmly and legally can make all the difference in how your case unfolds.
Here’s what you need to know:
You Have the Right to Remain Silent
You are not required to answer questions about where you’re going, what you’re doing, or why you’re in a particular place. You can politely say,
“I choose to remain silent.”
Be respectful but firm.
You Have the Right to Ask if You Are Free to Leave
Unless you are being detained or arrested, you can ask:
“Am I free to go?”
If the officer says yes, calmly walk away. If they say no, ask:
“Am I being detained, and if so, why?”
You Have the Right to Record the Interaction
In Maryland, you are legally allowed to record public interactions with police, as long as you do not interfere with their duties. This can provide key evidence later—especially in cases involving alleged public disturbances.
You Do Not Have to Consent to a Search
Unless the officer has a warrant or clear legal justification (such as probable cause), you can refuse a search of your person, belongings, or vehicle. Say:
“I do not consent to a search.”
Stay Calm and Avoid Escalation
Even if you feel the accusation is unfair or the situation is tense, avoid yelling, resisting, or making sudden movements. These actions can be misinterpreted—and in some cases, may lead to additional charges or physical confrontation.
You Have the Right to an Attorney
If you are arrested, ask for a lawyer immediately and do not answer any questions without legal representation present.
Contact a Maryland Disorderly Conduct Lawyer
We offer free consultations for potential criminal clients who read our blog posts. To schedule a consultation, click the image below, complete the intake form, and an experienced Maryland disorderly conduct attorney will contact you within one hour.
