Bonnaroo 2017 is Here, Know Tennessee's Public Intoxication Laws

The attorneys at Shipman & Crim love the Bonnaroo festival season just as much as the next guy.  We know sometimes things can get a little out of hand. Bonnaroo is here, and kicks off on Thursday, June 8, 2017. This is a good time to revisit Tennessee public intoxication laws. Although the offense sounds self-explanatory, there are actual elements to the offense and intoxication in public are not the only elements.

Tennessee law on public intoxication is found at Tennessee Code Annotated 39-17-310 and states the following:

A person commits the offense of public intoxication who appears in a public place under the influence of a controlled substance, controlled substance analogue or any other intoxicating substance to the degree that:
(1) The offender may be endangered;
(2) There is endangerment to other persons or property; or
(3) The offender unreasonably annoys people in the vicinity.

A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor. A class "C" misdemeanor in Tennessee carries a maximum punishment of 30 days incarceration and a $50 fine.

The law certainly leaves a degree of discretion to law enforcement in deciding whether you fall into one of those categories, however they must provide a factual basis to support their belief. It is important to note that public intoxication includes more than just alcohol - it applies to any substance which can impair you. Public place would also include events which require a ticket, such a Bonnaroo.

Enjoy Bonnaroo, be smart, have fun and feel free to contact Shipman & Crim, Tennessee criminal defense attorneys at 615-829-8259 or 931-303-0421 if you find yourself in trouble.

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