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Charged With Disorderly Conduct in Myrtle Beach?
If an argument, a night out, or an encounter with police has left you facing a disorderly conduct charge, you may be wondering what happens next.
Perhaps you disagree with the officer’s account or aren’t sure whether to pay a fine. Speaking with a lawyer can help you understand your options before deciding how to handle the case.
A disorderly conduct lawyer at Coastal Law can discuss your charge and legal options. The firm represents local residents and visitors facing criminal charges in Myrtle Beach and Horry County.
Call 843-488-5000 or request a free consultation.
Your Side of the Story Matters
When you discuss your defense, explain what happened before police arrived, who witnessed the incident, and whether anyone recorded it.
Bring your paperwork and identify the allegations you dispute. A specific account gives your attorney a starting point for examining the charge and available evidence.
Your conversation with Coastal Law can cover:
- The charge: What statute or ordinance is listed, and what conduct is alleged?
- The evidence: Are witness accounts, body-camera footage, surveillance recordings, or cellphone videos available?
- The defense: Do the allegations fit the offense? Are there issues with the evidence or police procedures?
- The next step: What court dates, deadlines, and possible resolutions should you understand?
There is no single approach that fits every case. Ask what representation would involve and how the attorney would evaluate your circumstances.
What Counts as Disorderly Conduct?
S.C. Code § 16-17-530 addresses three categories:
- Public behavior: Gross intoxication, or disorderly or boisterous conduct, on a highway or at a public place or gathering.
- Language: Obscene or profane language in designated public locations or within earshot of a schoolhouse or church.
- Firearms: Discharging a firearm without just cause or excuse while under, or pretending to be under, alcohol’s influence, on or within 50 yards of a public road or highway, except on one’s own premises.
For a fuller explanation of the statute and possible defenses, read our guide to disorderly conduct in South Carolina.
Penalties and Other Options
Under § 16-17-530, public disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $100 or up to 30 days in jail.
Conditional discharge
Qualifying first-time offenders may receive a conditional discharge with the circuit solicitor’s approval, the accused’s consent, and court action.
It follows a guilty plea or finding, with judgment deferred during probation. Successful completion results in dismissal; violating conditions can result in an adjudication of guilt.
This option is available only once. The statute requires a $150 fee before discharge and dismissal, with relief possible for indigency.
Expungement
After qualifying discharge and dismissal, a person may apply for expungement under subsection (C). SLED retains a limited nonpublic record.
Why Choose Coastal Law?
When you’re choosing a disorderly conduct lawyer, the firm’s background and the attention your case receives matter. Coastal Law offers:
- Roots in Horry County: Attorney Mike Wells founded Coastal Law in Conway in 2001. The firm now has offices in Myrtle Beach, Conway, and Charleston.
- A background in litigation: Mike earned his law degree with a concentration in Litigation Studies. His practice includes criminal defense alongside personal injury and other legal matters.
- Personal attention: Coastal Law emphasizes honest guidance and individual attention. Bring your concerns to the consultation so you can discuss how the firm would approach your case.
- A free initial conversation: The firm offers free consultations for criminal defense cases. You can discuss your charge and ask about representation, fees, and expenses before deciding whom to hire.
Learn more about Attorney Mike Wells and our firm, or read about our criminal defense services.
Visiting Myrtle Beach?
A charge can leave you with questions about travel and court appearances. If you live outside South Carolina, tell the firm when you call.
Identify the court and any scheduled appearance on your paperwork. Ask what your case requires before booking another trip or assuming someone can appear on your behalf.
Coastal Law represents both locals and tourists. Your consultation should focus on your charge and what you need to do next.
What to Bring
Prepare a few things for your consultation:
- Your ticket or arrest paperwork and any court notices.
- A timeline of what happened, written while the details are fresh.
- Names of potential witnesses and information about recordings or photographs.
- A list of questions, including concerns about other charges from the same incident.
Separate what you personally saw from what someone else told you. If you are unsure about a detail, say so.
Common Questions
Should I pay the fine first?
Ask an attorney to review your paperwork and explain what that resolution means before deciding. Discuss your options rather than choosing solely because a payment seems convenient.
What if the police report is wrong?
Point out the details you dispute. Identify witnesses or recordings that support your account and provide your disorderly conduct attorney with a clear timeline.
Can you guarantee a dismissal?
No particular result is promised. The firm needs to evaluate your circumstances before discussing an approach. Results achieved for other clients do not necessarily indicate similar results in your case.
