Public Intoxication Lawyer Denton, TX

Fighting Accusations of Being Drunk in Public in Denton County

Although public intoxication is considered a misdemeanor offense, that does not mean a charge for this crime should not be taken seriously. Any criminal conviction can have lasting impacts on your life, making it challenging to go about your days as you once did. The most effective way to challenge the allegations of being drunk in public is with the help of a skilled lawyer.

At Magaña & Van Dyke, we have over 20 years of combined legal experience, and we have handled thousands of criminal cases. Our Denton public intoxication defense lawyers know how to skillfully navigate the criminal justice system. When you hire us, we'll deliver the personalized legal representation you need. Your case is just as important to us as it is to you. That is why we get to know you as a person, listen to your goals, and work hard toward a favorable outcome on your behalf. Throughout the process, we'll maintain open communication with you and respond promptly to your questions and concerns, which means you can be confident that you have someone on your side who cares about what happens in your case.

To schedule a free consultation, call us at 940-382-1976 or contact us online today.

What Is Considered Public Intoxication?

Although some people might believe that a public intoxication charge can be levied just for being in a public area while drunk, that's not necessarily the case.

Under Texas Penal Code § 49.02, a person commits an offense when:

• They're in public;
• While intoxicated; and
• They may be a danger to themselves or the people around them.

What this means is that if someone is walking home after a night of drinking, and they're not disturbing anybody, they're not committing a crime. However, if they try to pick a fight with a passerby, they may be charged with public intoxication.

In the above example, the person is walking along a sidewalk when they commit the alleged offense. But a public place isn't limited to that area.

Any location that everyone is allowed to lawfully enter is considered a public place, such as:

• Hospitals
• Restaurants
• Bars
• Parks

What Are the Penalties for Public Intoxication?

In Texas, public intoxication is a Class C misdemeanor. It is penalized by a fine of up to $500. While there is no jail time attached to this offense, as mentioned earlier, that does not mean it's not serious.

In many public intoxication cases, many people simply pay the fine and put the matter behind them. But resolving the issue by paying the fine is akin to admitting guilt, and the conviction does not stay in the past. It remains on a person's criminal record, following the individual around for the rest of their life. Thus, it is crucial to hire someone who knows what they are doing to help defend innocence.

Contact Our Denton County Public Intoxication Attorneys

Our experienced Denton defense lawyers know how to defend against a public intoxication charge and how to mitigate the consequences of a conviction. We will take a firm stance in fighting for your rights and do everything we legally can to protect your freedom.

Contact Magaña & Van Dyke for a free consultation on your public intoxication charge in Denton County. Call 940-382-1976 today.