Charged with Disorderly Conduct, Disturbing the Peace, or Trespass in Boston? 

You Deserve a Smart, Strategic Defense.

In a city like Boston, where public spaces are packed, tensions run high, and policing is aggressive — a minor encounter can quickly lead to major consequences. Whether you were at a protest, leaving a bar, passing through a private business, or caught up in a heated moment, charges like disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, or trespassing are often used to control situations — even when no crime actually occurred.

At DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C., we represent clients facing public order charges across Boston Municipal Court and Suffolk County. We know these charges can be vague, subjective, and deeply unfair. We also know how to beat them.

What Are These Charges — and Why Are They So Common in Boston?

These charges are broadly defined under Massachusetts law, giving officers significant discretion. That means you can be arrested for behavior that would barely get noticed elsewhere — especially in a high-police presence area like Downtown Crossing, the T, Fenway, or the Seaport.

Disorderly Conduct (M.G.L. c. 272, § 53)

Charged when someone allegedly behaves in a threatening, offensive, or disruptive manner in public. Common situations in Boston include:

• Public arguments or shouting
• Reacting emotionally during a police stop
• Intoxicated behavior near bars or events

Disturbing the Peace (M.G.L. c. 272, § 53)

Often overlaps with disorderly conduct. In Boston, it’s commonly used when:

• Loud noise or behavior disrupts residential or business areas
• A fight breaks out in public
• An individual is accused of “causing a scene”

Trespass (M.G.L. c. 266, § 120)

This charge can stem from:

• Staying in a store, bar, or public space after being asked to leave
• Entering buildings after hours (especially on college campuses)
• Being on private property during protests or public gatherings

All three are frequently used as catch-all charges when police want to exert control — especially when someone challenges authority or draws attention in public.

What Are the Penalties?

Even though these charges are often considered “minor,” the consequences are anything but:

• Fines of $200–$500
• Jail time of up to 6 months for disorderly conduct or trespass
• A permanent criminal record
• Impact on jobs, housing, student visas, or immigration status
• Damage to public image, especially for professionals or students

If you're charged in Boston, it’s easy to feel like the system is stacked against you. That’s why you need a defense attorney who knows how to push back.

Our Approach to Boston Public Order Charges

At DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, we build your defense with full context. We’ll review:

• Body-worn camera footage
• Witness accounts
• Surveillance video from surrounding businesses or T stations
• Police reports and procedures

We often argue that:

• Your behavior didn’t meet the legal standard for the charge
• The arrest was based on bias, overreach, or retaliation
• Your conduct was non-violent, protected speech, or an emotional reaction
• The police violated your First Amendment rights (especially during protests)

Why Boston Clients Trust Us

• Deep experience in Boston Municipal and Suffolk courts
• Success in getting charges dismissed or resolved quietly
• Culturally competent, trauma-aware representation
• Familiarity with protest defense, student conduct, and public safety cases

We defend professionals, students, visitors, activists, and residents who never thought they’d be in this position. If that’s you — we’ve got your back.

Call a Boston Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

Public order charges may sound minor, but they can derail jobs, visas, school applications, and housing opportunities — especially in a city like Boston.

Don’t take that risk.

Contact DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C. today for a free consultation. We’ll help you get answers, protect your record, and move forward with confidence.