Walk It Through: The Shove Outside the Bar
Loud words at closing time, an offer to step outside, a shove that hurts, and an officer's hand on an arm.
At closing time, two people start shouting at each other on the sidewalk.
Two things a person in this spot might do. Picking one shows what the law says about it.
A late night argument between adults who do not live together. A household member, a weapon, and a serious injury change the charge, and each has its own page.
A practice walkthrough, not a prediction of how any real one will go. Legal information, not legal advice.
Words this turns on
Terms with a legal meaning that is narrower than the everyday one. Each links to the definition and the authority behind it.
- FelonyA crime that can be punished by death or by imprisonment for more than one year. Every other crime is a misdemeanor.
- Simple assaultUnlawfully trying to cause bodily injury to another, with the present ability to do it; a misdemeanor with a fine of up to $750.
- Unlawful contactTouching someone in a rude, insolent or angry way without enough force to injure, or recklessly causing bodily injury; a misdemeanor of up to six months.
- Breach of the peaceDisturbing the peace of a community with unreasonably loud noise or music, or threatening, abusive or obscene language or violent actions, knowing it will.