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Disorderly Behaviour Causing Harassment, Alarm or Distress

Section 5 Public Order Act 1986

Maximum Sentence

Fine

Court Information

Magistrates’ Court

What is Disorderly Behaviour Causing Harassment, Alarm or Distress?
This offence occurs when a person uses threatening or abusive words, disorderly behaviour, or displays any writing, sign, or representation that is threatening or abusive. The offender either intends their actions to be threatening, abusive, or disorderly or is aware that their words or actions may cause harassment, alarm, or distress within the hearing or sight of another person.

This offence often involves:

  • Threats or abuse made in public settings.

  • Homophobic or racist abuse.

  • ‘Tragedy chanting’ that is not directed at a specific individual but is likely to cause alarm or distress to anyone who hears or sees it.

Court and Sentencing Information

  • These cases are exclusively handled in the Magistrates’ Court.

  • This includes the racially aggravated offence under Section 31(1)(c) of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.

  • Maximum penalty: A fine.

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Football Law is highly experienced in defending clients accused of disorderly behaviour. We work to minimise penalties and safeguard your rights.

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    Dean

  • I had a really good experience with Rob and the team. The service provided is professional throughout and really helped me achieve the best possible outcome. I would strongly recommend the FLA and Rob to anyone who finds themselves in need of a solicitor for football related offences.

    Joe

  • Found myself in a horrible position where I needed the services of a solicitor and was very fortunate to come across Football Law Associates. Melanie Cooke was my initial contact and put my mind at rest within a few minutes of talking to her. Melanie is extremely professional and understanding, whilst offering fantastic guidance.

    Patrick

  • Rob helped me a lot during my case back in April 2024. I had a case of assault against me due to an allegation made against me due to an act of self defence from myself. Rob was amazing and supportive with everything and made the process very comforting and it helped me a lot

    Gregg

  • I would definitely recommend Football Law Associates. Rob Perkins dealt with my case and was available to answer my calls or call be back. He also kept me updated and explained everything. Nothing was rushed. He represented me in a very professional manner and ensured I understand every possible outcome.

    Jonny

  • I needed support for a matter and stumbled across FLA. They have directed and advised me across a number of court appearances and complicated law matters and their service has been extremely professional and excellent.

    Dean

  • I had a really good experience with Rob and the team. The service provided is professional throughout and really helped me achieve the best possible outcome. I would strongly recommend the FLA and Rob to anyone who finds themselves in need of a solicitor for football related offences.

    Joe

Reviews

Trusted by Our Clients

Reviews

Trusted by Our Clients

  • Found myself in a horrible position where I needed the services of a solicitor and was very fortunate to come across Football Law Associates. Melanie Cooke was my initial contact and put my mind at rest within a few minutes of talking to her. Melanie is extremely professional and understanding, whilst offering fantastic guidance.

    Patrick

  • Rob helped me a lot during my case back in April 2024. I had a case of assault against me due to an allegation made against me due to an act of self defence from myself. Rob was amazing and supportive with everything and made the process very comforting and it helped me a lot

    Gregg

  • I would definitely recommend Football Law Associates. Rob Perkins dealt with my case and was available to answer my calls or call be back. He also kept me updated and explained everything. Nothing was rushed. He represented me in a very professional manner and ensured I understand every possible outcome.

    Jonny

  • I needed support for a matter and stumbled across FLA. They have directed and advised me across a number of court appearances and complicated law matters and their service has been extremely professional and excellent.

    Dean

  • I had a really good experience with Rob and the team. The service provided is professional throughout and really helped me achieve the best possible outcome. I would strongly recommend the FLA and Rob to anyone who finds themselves in need of a solicitor for football related offences.

    Joe

Reviews

Trusted by Our Clients

  • Found myself in a horrible position where I needed the services of a solicitor and was very fortunate to come across Football Law Associates. Melanie Cooke was my initial contact and put my mind at rest within a few minutes of talking to her. Melanie is extremely professional and understanding, whilst offering fantastic guidance.

    Patrick

  • Rob helped me a lot during my case back in April 2024. I had a case of assault against me due to an allegation made against me due to an act of self defence from myself. Rob was amazing and supportive with everything and made the process very comforting and it helped me a lot

    Gregg

  • I would definitely recommend Football Law Associates. Rob Perkins dealt with my case and was available to answer my calls or call be back. He also kept me updated and explained everything. Nothing was rushed. He represented me in a very professional manner and ensured I understand every possible outcome.

    Jonny

  • I needed support for a matter and stumbled across FLA. They have directed and advised me across a number of court appearances and complicated law matters and their service has been extremely professional and excellent.

    Dean

  • I had a really good experience with Rob and the team. The service provided is professional throughout and really helped me achieve the best possible outcome. I would strongly recommend the FLA and Rob to anyone who finds themselves in need of a solicitor for football related offences.

    Joe