Public Intoxication

For almost the entire history of our country, drinking alcohol has been 100% legal. Millions of people throughout our society regularly drink alcohol, including senators, Congressmen, prosecutors, and judges.

Nevertheless, California Penal Code section 647(f) makes it a misdemeanor offense to be found intoxicated in any public place "in a condition that he or she is unable to exercise care for his or her safety or the safety of others." What does that mean? We don't know. Neither do city attorneys or judges. It's basically meaningless, but it does give police officers a very wide latitude in arresting or citing anyone who's had a couple of drinks. Of course, court fines from public intoxication convictions are a substantial moneymaker for any city, but that's probably just a coincidence.

Luckily, you don't have to just roll over and pay the city government's exorbitant fines and fees. The aggressive and dedicated attorneys at McGregor and Ernenwein are highly experienced in defending public intoxication cases throughout Southern California, and we have a great track record in securing acquittals, reductions and dismissals for our clients.

Under California Penal Code section 647(f), public intoxication is a misdemeanor criminal charge. If you are convicted of this charge, it will appear on your criminal record. In some cases, a public intoxication charge accompanies other significant charges, such as assault and battery. An added public intoxication charge can make any other separate charge much more serious.

There are a number of defenses to public intoxication charges available, and an experienced attorney can prepare a strong defense that is suited to your specific case. We will carefully review the event in question and investigate the statements of any witnesses present at the scene. If we are able to prove that you were sober enough to provide the police with your personal information and to interact with them, that is a very good indication of your innocence.

Public intoxication may be viewed as a minor criminal charge, but you can be assured that our attorneys take it very seriously. We are ready to fight for you and your rights. Your case will be entirely handled by a licensed attorney, not by a paralegal.

Attorneys at the Law Offices of McGregor & Ernenwien have been defending public intoxication cases throughout Southern California for almost twenty years. If you or a loved one has been accused of public intoxication, call a dedicated and experienced defense attorney at McGregor & Ernenwein today for a free consultation.