Section 4 of the Public Order Act 1986
It is an offence to use abusive, threatening or insulting words or behaviour towards another person or display any writing, sign or visible representation that is abusive or insulting with the intent to cause another immediate unlawful violence.
It is a defence if both you and the complainant are inside the same dwelling.
The maximum sentence is 6 months’ imprisonment.
Section 4A of the Public Order Act 1986
It is an offence for a person to, with intent, cause another harassment, alarm or distress by using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour or display any writing, sign or other visible representation which is threatening, abusive or insulting and causes another harassment, alarm or distress.
It is a defence if you are inside a dwelling and had no reason to believe the the words or behaviour used would cause or would be heard or seen a person outside. Alternatively, it may be that your conduct was reasonable.
The maximum sentence is 6 months’ imprisonment.
Section 5 of the Public Order Act 1986
It is an offence for a person to use threatening or abusive words or behaviour or display any writing, sign or other visible representation which is threatening or abusive within the hearing or sight of a person likely to be caused harassment, alarm or distress.
It is a defence if you had reasonable belief that there was no person within hearing or sight that would have been caused harassment, alarm or distress. Alternatively, it may be that your conduct was reasonable.
The sentence is a financial penalty.
Other public order offences:
- Disorderly conduct
- Criminal damage
- Threatening behaviour
- Riot
- Violent disorder
- Affray
How can we help?
Being accused of public order offences is a serious case. We can provide you with advice and representation anywhere in England and Wales.
We will defend you from the start to make sure you have the best defence available.