Arrested for Drunk in Public in Los Angeles? Here’s What You Need to Know
As a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles, we often represent clients charged with Drunk in Public, also known as Public Intoxication under California Penal Code §647(f). This charge can arise when a person is found in a public place under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both—even if they aren’t causing harm.
If you or someone you love was arrested for public intoxication, here’s what you need to know about the law, the consequences, and how a skilled DUI Los Angeles attorney can help.
What Is Drunk in Public (PC §647(f))?
Under California Penal Code section 647(f), a person can be arrested for being “drunk in public” if:
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They are so intoxicated that they cannot care for their own safety or the safety of others, or
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They interfere with, obstruct, or prevent the free use of a street, sidewalk, or other public way.
Importantly, Drunk in Public does not require alcohol—you can be charged for being under the influence of drugs or a combination of drugs and alcohol.
This law is not intended to punish someone simply for having too much to drink. Instead, it’s meant to prevent harm caused by extreme intoxication in public settings.
Common Defenses to Drunk in Public Charges
As a drunk in public attorney Los Angeles residents trust, we have successfully defended numerous clients using strategic legal defenses. Common defenses include:
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Not actually in a public place – Being on private property, like your own front yard or inside a car, may not qualify as “public.”
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Not intoxicated – Officer perception is subjective. Body language, speech, and behavior may be misinterpreted, especially if bias is involved.
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Capable of self-care – Being tipsy is not enough; prosecutors must prove you were incapable of caring for yourself or obstructing a public path.
In many cases, prosecutors are open to dismissals or alternative resolutions like diversion or completing self-help classes (such as AA or NA) when represented by an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney.
What Are the Penalties for Drunk in Public in California?
Although PC 647(f) is a misdemeanor, it can still carry serious consequences:
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Up to 6 months in county jail
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Fines up to $1,000
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Criminal record
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Possible probation
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Additional jail time for repeat offenses
However, in reality, public intoxication is a low-priority offense for prosecutors and judges. In many cases, especially with first-time offenders, we are able to negotiate favorable outcomes such as dismissals after attending a few classes.
Immigration and Professional Licensing Consequences
Even though it’s “just a misdemeanor,” a drunk in public conviction can have serious immigration consequences for non-citizens. USCIS may view repeat alcohol-related offenses as evidence of habitual drunkenness, which can impact:
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Green card applications
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U.S. citizenship
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Deportation proceedings
- Loss Of DACA
Additionally, if you hold a professional license (nurse, physical therapist, teacher, etc.), your licensing board may initiate disciplinary action. Many boards view any alcohol-related offense as a red flag—especially in professions that involve caring for others.
Why Choose Our Los Angeles DUI Attorney Team?
Our office specializes in all alcohol-related offenses, including:
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Drunk in Public (PC 647(f))
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Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
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Alcohol-related probation violations
We have built strong relationships with local prosecutors and courts throughout Southern California, including Los Angeles, Orange County, San Bernardino, and Riverside. This experience allows us to get results that many other firms simply can’t.
We frequently use drunk in public charges to negotiate better outcomes in DUI cases, especially when driving cannot be proven. Our approach includes litigation, motion practice, and negotiating alternative sentencing or full dismissals.
Contact a Drunk in Public Attorney Los Angeles Today
If you or your loved one has been arrested for a violation of Penal Code section 647(f) (commonly known as “drunk in public”) in Los Angeles, don’t wait. Let a skilled criminal defense attorney Los Angeles residents rely on help you avoid the long-term consequences of a misdemeanor conviction.
Call (818) 921-7744 now for a free consultation and speak directly to an attorney—no receptionist or phone tag.
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