Whether you are being extremely loud in public or involved in a physical altercation in Nevada, you could be charged with “breaching the peace.” Also known as disturbing the peace, this offense is defined as intentionally or willfully disturbing a person, family, or neighborhood with either loud and strange noises, offensive and tumultuous conduct, threats, or fights or challenges to a fight.
Common examples of breaching the peace in Nevada include:
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Playing loud music when it is late at night
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Loudly and repeatedly yelling obscenities or racial slurs
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Allowing your dog to loudly bark throughout the night
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Fighting or challenging others to a fight
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Using language to provoke another person to breach the peace
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Stumbling on the street while intoxicated
Breaching the peace in Nevada is a misdemeanor, which carries a jail sentence of up to six months and a maximum fine of $1,000. However, if this is a first-time offense and the defendant does not have a significant criminal history, the judge will most likely only order a fine without jail time.
Even though breaching the peace is considered a minor offense, it is imperative to still hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect your rights and freedom. In fact, it is not uncommon for a judge to dismiss the entire case, if the defendant wishes to fight the charges against them.
However, if you fail to pay the fine or even appear in court, a judge will likely issue a “bench warrant” for your arrest. If you end up getting arrested, you could be held in custody without bail until your court hearing.
If you or a loved one has recently been arrested for or charged with breaching or disturbing the peace in Reno, contact the Law Offices of Kenneth A. Stover today at (775) 502-1575 for a free consultation. Let our former prosecutor protect your rights and freedom.