What are the Penalties for Public Intoxication in Georgia?
Our Gwinnett County criminal defense lawyer explains the potentially serious penalties you could be facing if convicted of public intoxication in Georgia.
Having one too many drinks can happen while engaging in your favorite recreational activities, enjoying an evening out with friends, or attending celebrations. Unfortunately, this could create serious problems, causing you to behave in ways that are not only potentially dangerous, but illegal as well.
Obviously, drinking and driving is not an option. But even walking or hanging out in a public place could result in criminal charges. Our Gwinnett County criminal defense attorney explains more about public intoxication charges in Georgia and the penalties associated with a conviction.
Public Intoxication in Georgia
It is easy to lose track of how much you have had to drink. The more alcohol in your system, the less likely you are to be aware of how it is impacting your behavior. Loosened inhibitions and impaired judgment could cause you to act in ways you otherwise would not.
Unfortunately, this can put you on the wrong side of the law. Under Section 16-11-14 of the Georgia Code § 16-11-41, Public Drunkenness is a criminal offense. Categorized alongside other crimes that impact public order and safety, you could face these charges for any of the following types of behaviors:
- Acting overly boisterous, raucous, or rowdy.
- Yelling, screaming, or otherwise talking in an excessively loud voice.
- Using language that is vulgar, profane, or otherwise unbecoming a situation.
- Engaging in indecent acts or behavior.
You can be charged with public intoxication for engaging in any of the above in a public place or private residence if it causes offense to the owner or otherwise lawful occupants.
Penalties for Public Intoxication in Gwinnett County
Public intoxication charges could result from attending parties at someone’s home or apartment building, visiting local bars, nightclubs, or restaurants, walking home afterward, or when in any public place.
In addition to state laws prohibiting this type of behavior, local counties and cities have laws against public intoxication as well. Under the Gwinnett County Municipal Code, public intoxication is classified as a misdemeanor crime and could result in either a summons to appear in court or your immediate arrest, depending on the specific situation. If convicted for public intoxication in Georgia, penalties you could be facing include:
- Fines of up to $1,000.
- Additional court costs and legal fees.
- Up to a one-year jail sentence.
- A criminal record that will remain with you for the rest of your life, potentially damaging your reputation in the community and impacting positions of leadership or job prospects.
Our Gwinnett County Criminal Defense Lawyers Protect You Against Public Intoxication Charges
If charged with public intoxication in Georgia, you could be facing serious criminal penalties. Penalties associated with a conviction could adversely affect you for years to come. Get the professional legal representation you need to build a strong legal defense and reach out to Zimmerman & Associates. Call (770) 350-0100 or contact our Gwinnett County criminal defense attorney online to request a free consultation today.