Even responsible, social drinkers may find themselves faced with a public intoxication charge. In Virginia, public intoxication is a Class 4 misdemeanor punishable with only a fine up to $250. Because the punishment is only a fine, many people naively pay the fine and forget about the incident - that is, until they later encounter job applications, school applications, loan applications, etc. inquiring about past criminal convictions.
We are experienced Virginia criminal defense attorneys who will aggressively fight your charges. Don't make the mistake of trying to go it alone without hiring a lawyer. When the results matter, rely on an attorney who won't give up on you.
Call us today for a free case evaluation at 1-888-384-5997.
§ 18.2-388. Profane swearing and intoxication in public.
If any person profanely curses or swears or is intoxicated in public, whether such intoxication results from alcohol, narcotic drug or other intoxicant or drug of whatever nature, he shall be deemed guilty of a Class 4 misdemeanor. In any area in which there is located a court-approved detoxification center a law-enforcement officer may authorize the transportation, by police or otherwise, of public inebriates to such detoxification center in lieu of arrest; however, no person shall be involuntarily detained in such center.