Drunk in Public in Long Beach? Get Your Charges Dismissed!!!

Second Street in Long Beach, also known as “Belmont Shore” has begun to crack down on public intoxication. Long Beach Police have drastically increased the number of arrests on patrons who have come to Second Street to enjoy the bars, restaurants, café’s and other establishments on the festive street. Specifically, numerous arrests for violations of California Penal Code 647(f) (aka “Public Intoxication” or “Drunk in Public“) have occurred in Long Beach in increasing numbers over the past few weeks.

California Penal Code §647(f) specifically states that one can be convicted of a misdemeanor for disorderly conduct if he or she is found in a public place under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or any combination of alcohol and drugs in a condition that he or she is unable to exercise care for his or her own safety or the safety of others OR if he or she interferes with or obstructs or prevents the free use of any street, sidewalk, or other public way.

There are many techniques to attack any arrest for being drunk in public. Case law is very specific as to what qualifies as being “unable to care for one’s own safety”. Often, police reports are vague (at best) as to the actions that the officer deemed “unsafe” to the arrestee. Furthermore, the law is also specific that if arrested under 647(f), the arrestee must be taken to a specified facility and shall NOT be subject to any criminal prosecution for the events giving rise to the arrest for Public Intoxication (also known as Drunk in Public). But, to properly fight these allegations and make sure your rights are honored, you need the assistance of an experienced lawyer who is able to handle your case and possibly get it dismissed.

If you have been arrested for Public Intoxication or Drunk in Public in Long Beach, you need the assistance of a competent and experienced defense attorney working to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive your constitutional due process. The criminal defense lawyers at Houston Law of California can assist with your Public Intoxication charges in Long Beach and anywhere in Orange County or Los Angeles. The lawyers at Houston Law of California can handle any other criminal accusations against you. (Often, “Drunk in Public” cases turn in to DUI arrests). Call TODAY! Do NOT WAIT! Call the Long Beach criminal defense attorneys of Houston Law of California at 714.841.3921 or email at info@HBLawyers.net .

For a discussion leading up to the increases in arrests, see http://thedistrictweekly.com/2009/daily/writing-shotgun/the-legend-of-belmont-shore-bar-problems-grow/ and http://thedistrictweekly.com/2009/print/news/say-cheese/