Public Intoxication Lawyer Bergen County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Public intoxication in Bergen County is a disorderly persons offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2, carrying potential jail time and fines. If you are charged with being drunk in public, a defense lawyer Bergen County can challenge the evidence and seek dismissal. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides immediate defense for public intoxication charges in Hackensack and across Bergen County.
New Jersey Public Intoxication Law
In New Jersey, public intoxication is formally classified as a disorderly persons offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2. The statute prohibits appearing in a public place while manifestly under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the degree that you may endanger yourself, others, or property, or annoy others in your vicinity. This is distinct from a DUI/DWI charge, which relates to operating a vehicle. A conviction can result in penalties including up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $500, along with a permanent criminal record.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For local court procedures, visit the Bergen Vicinage website.
Defending a Public Intoxication Charge in Bergen County
Successfully defending a public intoxication charge often hinges on challenging the prosecution’s evidence. In the Bergen County Superior Court, prosecutors must prove you were both intoxicated and causing a public disturbance or danger. A common defense is that your behavior did not rise to the level of “annoyance” or endangerment required by law. Another is questioning the legality of the police stop or arrest.
- Contact a public intoxication lawyer Bergen County as early as possible after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all police reports, bodycam footage, and witness statements.
- A defense strategy is built, often focusing on lack of public disturbance or unlawful detention.
- Your lawyer will represent you at all court dates in Hackensack, seeking dismissal or a favorable plea.
Potential Penalties for Public Intoxication in NJ
In Bergen County, a public intoxication conviction as a disorderly persons offense carries penalties including jail, fines, and a criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Intoxication (N.J.S.A. 2C:33-2) | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 30 days in jail | Up to $500 | Permanent criminal record | Possible probation, community service |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the immediate and long-term consequences a public intoxication charge can have on your life, employment, and reputation. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results for public intoxication in Bergen County are not enumerated here, our firm has a documented history of achieving dismissals and reductions in disorderly persons cases. We apply this focused advocacy to every client’s situation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Public Intoxication Defense Near Bergen County, NJ
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing charges at the Bergen County Courthouse in Hackensack. We represent individuals from Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 651-9900
By appointment only.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is public intoxication a criminal offense in New Jersey?
Yes. Public intoxication is prosecuted as a disorderly persons offense in New Jersey, which is a criminal charge. A conviction will result in a permanent criminal record.
Can a public intoxication charge be dismissed?
It depends. A skilled drunk in public defense lawyer Bergen County can often seek dismissal by challenging whether your behavior met the legal standard for causing public annoyance or danger. Lack of evidence or procedural errors by police can also lead to dismissal.
What should I do if I’m charged with drunk in public in Bergen County?
Do not speak to police about the incident without an attorney. Immediately contact a public intoxication lawyer Bergen County. An attorney will protect your rights, gather evidence, and build a defense strategy for your court date in Hackensack.
What’s the difference between public intoxication and a DUI?
Public intoxication involves being manifestly under the influence in a public place. A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) specifically involves operating a motor vehicle while impaired. They are separate charges with different penalties and defenses.
Can I get a public intoxication charge expunged?
Yes, a disorderly persons offense like public intoxication is generally eligible for expungement in New Jersey after a waiting period (typically 5 years from completion of sentence). An attorney can guide you through this process to clear your record.
Your case in Bergen County, New Jersey
Injury claims are filed in the Civil Part of the Law Division. In Bergen County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage (2nd Vicinage), 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, telephone (201) 527-2700, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2, which sets a two-year filing limit for injury claims; tolling rules and exceptions can change that period, so confirm your deadline early. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Bergen County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Bergen County NJ lawyers directory · Public Intoxication Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Public Intoxication Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.