Public Intoxication Attorney Cedar Rapids

Public Intoxication Charges in Iowa

Public intoxication is a crime in Iowa and can result in fines and jail time. I.C.A. § 123.46 states that consuming alcohol in a prohibited area or being visibly intoxicated in public is a simple misdemeanor. While not as severe as a felony, a conviction can still mean jail time, fines and a criminal record—which can impact your employment and personal life.

You can’t:

• Drink or be intoxicated in a public place.
• Consume alcohol on public streets or highways.
• Drink on public school property or at school related events.
• Simulate intoxication in a public place.

If convicted, a public intoxication charge can be expunged after 2 years—as long as you don’t have any other convictions in that time. But avoiding a conviction altogether is always the best option.

Penalties for Public Intoxication in Iowa

A simple misdemeanor public intoxication conviction means:

• A $105-$855 fine plus 15% surcharge and $60 court costs.
• Up to 30 days in jail.
• A permanent criminal record which can affect employment, housing and professional licenses.

Even though enhancements for repeat offenders were removed in 2019 prior convictions may still impact sentencing and increase jail time.

Impact on Employment and Personal Life

A conviction can limit:

• Job opportunities and professional licensing.
• Rental applications and loan approvals.
• Personal and professional relationships due to reputational damage.

Avoiding a conviction is key. A criminal defense attorney can help you understand your charges, build a strong defense and fight for reduced or dismissed penalties.

What to Do If You Are Arrested for Public Intoxication

If a police officer thinks you are public intoxicated they may give you a preliminary breath test or a chemical test. A chemical test must be done within 2 hours of arrest to measure alcohol in your blood, breath or urine.

Your rights are:‍

• The right to refuse a preliminary breath test (with no penalties).
• The right to request an independent chemical test at your own expense.
• The right to remain silent and request a criminal defense attorney before answering any questions.

**Defending Against Public Intoxication Charges

A good defense can mean dismissed or reduced charges and no permanent criminal record. A public intoxication attorney can:

• Challenge the arrest.
• Attack the test results.
• Argue lack of probable cause.
• Look at alternative sentencing to keep your record clean.

Why Our Cedar Rapids Public Intoxation Attorney?

Going through a public intoxication charge on your own can be tough. Our criminal defense lawyer will:

• Protect your rights.
• Walk you through court.
• Develop a strategy to reduce or dismiss charges.
• Help you avoid long term consequences of a conviction.

Don’t let a public intoxication charge ruin your future. Call today for a consultation and get started on your defense.

‍