CAN YOU GET ARRESTED FOR PUBLIC INTOXICATION IN KANSAS CITY’S WESTPORT?

Westport is one of Kansas City’s most popular nightlife districts. With its bars, clubs, and late-night energy, it’s a go-to spot for fun. But what many people don’t realize is how often nights out in Westport end with arrests for public intoxication or related charges.

If you’ve been stopped by police or arrested in Westport, you may be wondering:

“Can you really get arrested just for being drunk in public in Kansas City?”

The short answer is yes and the consequences are more serious than you might think. But, all is not lost. If you’ve been ticketed for public intoxication in Westport, or any public location in Kansas City or Missouri, we’ve got your back.

Call KC Defense Counsel today and schedule a free and confidential case evaluation with one of our experienced Missouri criminal defense attorneys.

WHAT PUBLIC INTOXICATION MEANS IN KANSAS CITY

Unlike some states, Missouri doesn’t have a statewide law specifically against public intoxication. Instead, Kansas City municipal ordinances allow police to arrest someone who is drunk in public if they are causing a disturbance, endangering themselves, or creating safety risks for others.

In Westport, this often comes down to situations like:

• Loud or disruptive behavior on the street.
• Arguments or fights outside bars.
• Blocking sidewalks or creating disturbances.
• Falling asleep or passing out in public areas.

Even if you’re not driving, Kansas City police have broad authority to detain or arrest you if your behavior is deemed unsafe or disorderly.

COMMON CHARGES CONNECTED TO PUBLIC INTOXICATION IN WESTPORT

Public intoxication arrests often come with related charges, including:

Disorderly Conduct: for loud, disruptive, or threatening behavior.

Resisting Arrest: if you argue or physically resist police.

Assault: if an altercation happens outside a bar or on the street.

Trespassing: if you refuse to leave a business or private property when asked.

These charges can turn a “night out” into a criminal case that impacts your record for years.

PENALTIES FOR PUBLIC INTOXICATION IN KANSAS CITY

Penalties depend on the charge, but may include:

• Fines up to several hundred dollars.
• Jail time, especially for disorderly conduct or assault charges.
• Permanent criminal record, even for misdemeanors.

Many people assume a night in “drunk tank” is the worst-case scenario, but in reality, a conviction can create lasting consequences — including background check problems for jobs, housing, and professional licenses.

WHY ARE ARRESTS TO COMMON IN WESTPORT?

Westport has a heavy police presence on weekends and event nights. Law enforcement is under pressure to maintain order in large crowds, which means arrests happen quickly. What you think is “just a little too much fun” can easily look like disorderly conduct to officers monitoring the streets.

Defending Against Public Intoxication Charges: Being arrested doesn’t mean you’re automatically guilty. A skilled Kansas City criminal defense lawyer can fight charges by:

• Challenging whether your behavior actually met the legal standard for disorderly conduct.
• Arguing that police violated your rights during the stop or arrest.
• Negotiating for diversion programs or dismissals to protect your record.
• Showing that alcohol, while present, did not result in unsafe or unlawful behavior.

WHY YOU NEED A TRUSTED KANSAS CITY DEFENSE LAWYER ON YOUR SIDE

Public intoxication charges may sound minor, but they can follow you for life. Without representation, you risk a permanent mark on your record for what could have been a misunderstanding or one bad night.

An experienced Missouri public intoxication defense attorney can:

• Protect your rights in municipal or state court.
• Work to get charges reduced or dismissed.
• Help you avoid the long-term fallout of a conviction.

At KC Defense Counsel, our affordable Missouri criminal defense lawyers have helped countless clients arrested in Westport and other Kansas City nightlife districts. If you’ve been charged with public intoxication, don’t assume it’s just a “night in the drunk tank.” The consequences can be serious, and your future is worth protecting.

• Kansas City ordinances allow police to arrest people for public intoxication if they create disturbances or safety risks.
• Westport is a hotspot for arrests because of its heavy police presence and late-night crowds.
• Charges may include disorderly conduct, trespassing, or even assault.
• Penalties range from fines to jail time, plus a permanent record.
• A skilled Kansas City criminal defense attorney can protect your rights and fight to keep your record clean.

The sooner you have a skilled criminal defense lawyer on your side, the stronger your case will be. At KC Defense Counsel, we have the experience, resources, and determination to fight for the best possible results in your case. We’ve helped thousands of people across Kansas City and Missouri defend their rights — now let us help you.

Call KC Defense Counsel for a free case evaluation with an experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyer.

Cities we serve: Adrian, Archie, Bates City, Belton, Blue Springs, Buckner, Butler, Cameron, Claycomo, Cleveland,  Drexel, Fairview,  Ferrelview,  Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Houston Lake, Independence, Kansas City Missouri, Kearney, , Knob Noster, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lake Waukomis, Lake Winnebago, Lawson, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Oakview,  Parkville, Peculiar,, Platte City, Platte Woods, Plattsburg, Pleasant Hill,  Raymore, Raytown, Riverside, Smithville, Sugar Creek, Tracy,  Warrensberg, Weatherby Lake, and Weston.

Statewide: Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sheriff Counties we serve: Bates County, Cass County, Clay County, Jackson County, Platte County, Ray County.

Contact our experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyers near me in Missouri and let us help begin building your defense. Let us help.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Always consult qualified counsel regarding your unique situation.