Utah Public Intoxication Attorney - Criminal Defense Salt Lake

Often referred to as "public intoxication" in Utah, a criminal charge for Intoxication under Utah Code 76-9-701 can be filed for conduct occurring either a public or private place. Intoxication is a criminal charge that can carry penalties including jail time, substantial fines, and a variety of probation conditions. If you are facing criminal prosecution for intoxication, it is important to have the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Based in Salt Lake City, criminal lawyer Stephen Howard has handled thousands of cases ranging from aggravated murder to DUI. He has a record of achieving real results for his clients. If you have been charged with intoxication in Utah, contact us today to arrange for a confidential attorney consultation.

Elements of an Intoxication Charge under Utah Law

A Utah intoxication charge requires proof that the defendant was been intoxicated to a degree that he or she endangered either the defendant or another person. The "intoxication" involved in this criminal charge can be the result of alcohol consumption, controlled substances (drugs), or "any substance having the property of releasing toxic vapors."

While the charge is often filed in connection with actions in a public place, the language of Utah's public intoxication statute is sufficiently broad to cover some conduct occurring in private places. A criminal charge for intoxication can be based on conduct occurring either in a public place, or "in a private place where the person unreasonably disturbs other persons." If the defendant's conduct is loud enough or otherwise unreasonably disturbs other persons, a public intoxication charge can be filed for actions occurring even in the "privacy" of one's own home.

Consequences of a Utah Public Intoxication Conviction

While an intoxication charge is "only" a misdemeanor in Utah, any criminal charge should be taken seriously. Violation of Utah's public intoxication law is classified as a class C misdemeanor, and is often accompanied by an additional charge of disorderly conduct or other related charges.

Under Utah law, a single class C misdemeanor charge carries a maximum sentence of up to 90 days jail, a $750 fine, plus an additional 90% surcharge. If multiple charges are filed, the potential penalties increase substantially.

In addition to potential jail time for a charge of intoxication in Utah, a driver license suspension may also be imposed if the defendant is under the age of 21. The driver license suspension can be imposed even if the case involves no allegations of driving or other involvement of a motor vehicle. The period of a driver license suspension may be reduced by the court if the case involves the defendant's first intoxication conviction and the defendant completes required alcohol counseling.

Finding a Utah Criminal Lawyer in Salt Lake City

If you are facing criminal charges in Utah, an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help protect your constitutional rights. Based in Salt Lake City, Stephen Howard offers legal services to clients throughout Utah. He has handled thousands of felony and misdemeanor cases during his career. His criminal defense experience ranges from murder to DUI. He has successfully defended clients at trial in Utah's district courts and justice courts, and on appeal in Utah's appellate court system.

Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with Utah criminal defense attorney Stephen Howard.

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