California Penal Code Section 647 F
by
Randy Collins on Feb. 24, 2012
Summary: Being Drunk in Public is as its name suggests, is being intoxicated or under the influence in a public place. Under this code, this state of drunkenness will also pose a hazard to the individual who is drunk and others in their way.
Definition
Being Drunk in Public under California Penal Code Section 647 F, is a criminal offense and it is normally filed as a misdemeanor. Being Drunk in Public is as its name suggests, is being intoxicated or under the influence in a public place. Under this code, this state of drunkenness will also pose a hazard to the individual who is drunk and others in their way.
Other names associated with being drunk in public include:
· DIP for short
· Public Intoxication
· Drunk and Disorderly
Example
A common illustration of Being Drunk in Public is when someone is so highly intoxicated that they try to start a fight with someone they may not know. This is one of many examples.
Elements of the Crime
In order to take a Being Drunk in Public CPC 647 F case to trial, certain elements of the crime will have to be proven. This includes:
· That the defendant intentionally got drunk or used drugs in a public area
· That the defendant posed a hazard to themselves and those around them
· That the defendant obstructed a public passageway (like a sidewalk or road as an example)
Punishments for CPC 647 F
These penalties are to be determined by a judge and he/she will make a decision based on the circumstances surrounding the case.
When found guilty of Being Drunk in Public, it is usually filed as a misdemeanor, which is punishable up to six months in jail, up to one thousand dollars in fines, a probation and also attending counseling.
Legal Defenses for California Penal Code 647 F
A good lawyer can present many legal and valid defenses for Being Drunk in Public charges under California Penal Code 647 F to prove someone’s innocence. MacGregor and Collins is based in Orange County, California, and has successfully defended those who were falsely accused of Being Drunk in Public. Call (949) 250-6097 to speak to a lawyer, should you be on trial for Being Drunk in Public.
Learn more about other California Section Penal Codes here.