Public Order Offences

‍Threatening behaviour under Section 4 of the Public Order Act criminalises using threatening, abusive, or insulting behaviour likely to cause fear of violence. These charges often arise from heated arguments that escalate, with alcohol frequently playing a role. The offence requires no actual violence - the threat alone suffices for conviction.

Affray represents a more serious public order offence, requiring unlawful violence that would cause fear to a reasonable bystander. Affray charges often follow pub fights or street disturbances involving multiple parties. The prosecution must prove specific legal elements, creating opportunities for technical defences.

Violent disorder and riot represent the most serious public order charges, typically following large-scale disturbances. These charges carry severe sentences and often involve complex legal arguments about participation levels and intent. Joint enterprise principles can catch peripheral participants in serious charges meant for main perpetrators.

Harassment offences straddle public order and personal protection law. From neighbour disputes to online trolling, harassment allegations have proliferated in our interconnected world. Understanding the fine line between legitimate expression and criminal harassment requires careful legal analysis.

The following is not to be used as legal advice, it is a general understanding of events.

Context is everything in public order cases. Behaviour appearing aggressive on CCTV might be self-defence when full circumstances emerge. We meticulously gather witness evidence, CCTV from multiple angles, and social media content to present complete pictures of incidents.

Mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions increasingly feature in public order defences. Autism, ADHD, and other conditions can affect behaviour and perception in high-stress situations. Expert evidence explaining these impacts can transform courts' understanding of defendants' actions.

Protest-related charges require particular expertise. The balance between legitimate protest and criminal behaviour shifts with political and social contexts. We defend protesters' rights whilst navigating complex legislation around demonstrations and public assemblies.

Protecting Your Future

Public order convictions impact employment prospects, particularly in education, healthcare, and security sectors. We fight not just for acquittals but for outcomes that minimise long-term consequences. Sometimes accepting lesser charges protects futures better than fighting and losing on serious allegations.

Football banning orders and other ancillary orders often accompany public order convictions. These civil orders can restrict movement and association for years. We challenge these additional penalties, ensuring proportionate outcomes that don't unnecessarily restrict clients' lives.

Don't let a moment's poor judgement define your future. Our public order defence team understands the law's complexities and courts' approaches to these common but serious offences. Contact us for immediate, confidential advice on defending your case.