Public Order Offences
Public order offences cover a wide range of situations involving behaviour that is alleged to disturb the peace, cause disorder or interfere with public safety. Many people want to understand how these offences are defined, what evidence may be relevant and how factors like intent, location, conduct and police directions are assessed when responding to an allegation.
This page outlines the general issues that may arise and explains how Law Tram provides a secure and obligation-free way to connect with licensed Australian lawyers who can discuss your circumstances confidentially.
What are public order offences?
Public order offences cover a broad category of charges that relate to behaviour in public spaces. These offences are often dealt with in local or magistrates courts but can still lead to fines, convictions or jail time depending on the circumstances.
Common public order charges include offensive language, offensive behaviour, being drunk and disorderly, riot or affray, and failing to comply with police directions. These charges often arise in the context of protests, nightlife areas, or situations where alcohol is involved.
Law Tram connects you with lawyers who can explain the charges, assess whether the police acted lawfully and help you minimise the impact of a public order offence on your record.
Law Tram's Legal Partners can assist with public order offences, including:
- Offensive language and offensive behaviour charges
- Drunk and disorderly conduct in public places
- Failing to comply with police directions or move-on orders
- Riot, affray or unlawful assembly
- Public nuisance or loitering charges
- Obstructing public officers or emergency workers
- Supporting bail applications and court representation
- Advising on diversion, non-conviction outcomes or penalty reduction
Why choose Law Tram
- Connect with lawyers who understand public order matters
- Confidential platform to outline your situation
- Guidance on evidence or documents that may be relevant
- No obligation to engage any lawyer you speak with
- Lawyers help you understand the legal considerations involved
How it works
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Legal information only – not a substitute for advice
This page provides general legal information only. It is not legal advice and should not be relied on as such. Criminal charges can carry serious penalties and strict time limits. You should seek advice from an Australian Legal Practitioner as early as possible, especially before speaking to police or attending court.
Law Tram does not provide emergency legal support or crisis response services and does not assist in finding legal representation for minors.
Take the first step toward resolution
Law Tram offers a secure, efficient and supportive way to connect with lawyers who understand the legal issues involved in public order offences. Whether the situation involves allegations of disorderly behaviour, refusing police directions, public nuisance, obstructing public places or incidents arising during protests or gatherings, our platform helps you access tailored legal guidance before you decide how to proceed.
Take the first step with clarity and peace of mind by starting your free online consultation with Law Tram now.
Frequently Asked Questions
They are generally treated as summary offences, but they can still result in a criminal record and fines. Some can also lead to imprisonment.
Possibly. Offensive language laws differ between states, but context matters. A lawyer can help argue that the behaviour was not legally offensive.
Yes. Failing to comply with a lawful direction can lead to charges, but not all directions are valid. Legal advice can help assess your case.
In many cases, yes. A lawyer can help you apply for a diversion or non-conviction order depending on your history and the offence.
Potentially. A recorded conviction can impact background checks, travel or employment. Legal advice can help avoid long-term consequences.
Videos, photos, witness details, communication records, police directions, event information and a clear timeline can help a lawyer outline the general issues that may arise.
Yes. A lawyer can outline the general principles used to assess conduct, context, intent and how the behaviour affected people nearby.
Yes. A lawyer can explain how legality of the direction, misunderstanding, safety concerns or other circumstances may be considered.