There are certain rights that are protected by the U.S. Constitution, including the right to free speech and the right to free assembly. Nevada law aims to protect those rights, while also placing reasonable limitations when necessary to serve the public interest. For example, in an effort to protect the rights of people to come together, assemble, and speak, Nevada has limited the free speech of others by prohibiting the act of disturbing a lawful meeting.
Nevada has actually made it a crime under certain circumstances to disturb a meeting. The definition of this offense is found within Chapter 203, which is the chapter of Nevada’s penal code that establishes the definition of and penalties for offenses against public peace. If you have been accused of disturbing a public meeting in violation of Chapter 203, you should reach out to a Vegas defense lawyer to get assistance in fighting the accusations you are facing.
LV Criminal Defense has provided assertive representation to defendants accused of all different types of offenses related to breach of the peace that are found within Chapter 203. Our legal team knows this part of Nevada law inside and out, we understand how these cases are approached by prosecutors, and we can help our clients to develop the right legal strategy for their situation so they can avoid or reduce penalties associated with possible conviction. To find out more about how we can assist you if you’ve been accused of disturbing a meeting or any other offenses in the state, give us a call today.
The state of Nevada defines the offense of disturbing a meeting in Nevada Revised statute section 203.080. This is a separate statute than the general law prohibiting breach of peace, which is found in Nevada Revised Statute section 303.010.
Breach of peace prohibits the act of interfering with the peace and quiet of others by offensive conduct, threats, unusual noises, or other disturbing conduct. This offense is made unlawful in N.R.S. 203.010.
The offense of disturbing a meeting, as explained in N.R.S. 203.090, involves willfully disturbing any assembly or willfully disturbing any meeting that is not unlawful in its character. In other words, if you harass or bother others at any type of meeting or other event, you could potentially be found guilty of the offense of disturbing a meeting.
Nick Wooldridge has a long track record of representing clients accused of serious federal and state crimes in Nevada.
N.R.S. 203.090 indicates that disturbing a meeting is a misdemeanor criminal offense. However, because the offense requires willfulness, the prosecutor has to prove that you intentionally disturbed a legal meeting or assembly. The prosecutor also must show you have no authority of law to act in disturbing the meeting, as you cannot be prosecuted for interference with the meeting if you act in accordance with your legal duty.
If a defendant violates N.R.S. 203.090 by disturbing a meeting, that defendant could potentially be charged with a misdemeanor offense. If convicted, there is a possibility the conviction could have far-reaching consequences including preventing a defendant from being able to fully take advantage of educational and career opportunities going forward.
If you have been accused of disturbing a meeting or any other offense in violation of Chapter 203, LV Criminal Defense can provide representation and advocacy. Our compassionate and knowledgeable legal team can work closely with you to evaluate the strength of your case, determine if going to court is the best course of action to try to clear your name, or to identify an alternative approach to respond to charges based on your situation. Alternatives could potentially include a guilty plea and/or entering a pre-trial diversion program to avoid a criminal record.
To find out more about how we can help you if you have been accused of disturbing a meet, give us a call today to talk with a Vegas criminal defense attorney who can help you.
When I initially met with Mr. Wooldridge, he took the opportunity to sit and go over my problem with me. He described details in my case which he found disturbing and explained why he I should have him on my side.