Disturbing a Meeting – NRS 203.090

Overview

Disturbing a meeting is an offense addressed under Nevada Revised Statute (NRS) 203.090. This law focuses on maintaining order during public gatherings, including meetings of governmental bodies, organizations, or any assembly where people have gathered to discuss important matters. Understanding the implications of this statute is crucial for individuals who may be involved in public meetings, protests, or other assemblies.

Definition of Disturbing a Meeting

Under NRS 203.090, “disturbing a meeting” involves any act that disrupts the proceedings of a lawful gathering. Key elements of the law include:

1. Disruption: The accused must have engaged in behavior that significantly interrupts or disturbs the meeting. This can include shouting, using offensive language, or engaging in physical confrontations.
2. Intent: The act must be intentional, demonstrating a willful effort to disrupt the meeting rather than an accidental occurrence.
3. Public Nature of the Meeting: The statute applies to meetings that are open to the public, including city council meetings, school board meetings, and other official gatherings.

Legal Requirements for Prosecution

To secure a conviction for disturbing a meeting under NRS 203.090, the prosecution must prove several elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

1. Existence of a Meeting: There must be evidence that a lawful meeting was taking place at the time of the alleged disturbance.
2. Disruptive Behavior: The prosecution must demonstrate that the accused engaged in actions that intentionally disrupted the meeting.
3. Intent to Disrupt: The prosecution must show that the accused acted with the intent to disturb the proceedings, rather than inadvertently causing a distraction.

Related Offenses

Disturbing a meeting is related to several other offenses, including:

• Disorderly Conduct – NRS 207.200: Involves engaging in behavior that disrupts public peace or safety, which may overlap with disturbing a meeting.
• Resisting Arrest – NRS 197.190: If an individual resists law enforcement when asked to leave a meeting, additional charges may apply.
• Unlawful Assembly – NRS 202.060: Involves gathering in a manner that violates the law, which can be connected to disturbances at public meetings.

Examples of Disturbing a Meeting

Understanding NRS 203.090 can be clarified through specific examples:

• Example 1: During a public city council meeting, an individual stands up and begins shouting profanities, refusing to stop despite being asked to do so. This disruptive behavior can lead to charges of disturbing a meeting.
• Example 2: A group of protesters enters a school board meeting and loudly disrupts the proceedings, preventing the board from conducting its business. This coordinated effort can also be charged under the statute.

Penalties for Disturbing a Meeting

The penalties for disturbing a meeting under NRS 203.090 can vary based on the severity of the disruption:

• Misdemeanor Charges: Disturbing a meeting is typically charged as a misdemeanor, which may result in:
  • Fines: Up to $1,000.
  • Imprisonment: Up to 6 months in jail.
• Enhanced Penalties for Aggravating Factors: If the disturbance involves violence, threats, or prior offenses, penalties may escalate, leading to harsher sentencing.

Defenses Against Disturbing a Meeting Charges

If you are facing charges related to disturbing a meeting under NRS 203.090, several defenses may apply:

1. Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that the accused did not intend to disrupt the meeting can be a strong defense. If the behavior was accidental or unintentional, it may not meet the legal threshold for prosecution.
2. Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must provide clear evidence of disruptive behavior. If the evidence is circumstantial or weak, it may lead to a dismissal of charges.
3. Freedom of Speech: In some cases, the accused may argue that their actions were a form of protected speech. However, this defense can be complex, as it must be balanced against the need to maintain order at public meetings.
4. Misunderstanding: If the accused believed their behavior was appropriate in the context of the meeting, this may serve as a mitigating factor in their defense.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating the complexities of disturbing a meeting charges requires knowledgeable legal representation. Josh Tomsheck is a board-certified criminal trial attorney and registered specialist in criminal trial law with the State Bar of Nevada. His extensive experience in handling disorderly conduct and related cases equips him to provide a robust defense against charges under NRS 203.090.

As a Life Member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and a Mountain State’s Super Lawyer, Josh has a proven record of achieving favorable outcomes, including numerous complete dismissals and acquittals at trial. His commitment to protecting the rights of clients and understanding the intricacies of Nevada’s legal landscape make him a strong advocate in cases involving disturbances at public meetings.

Understanding Your Rights

If you are accused of disturbing a meeting, understanding your rights is crucial. Having experienced legal representation can help ensure that you navigate the legal process effectively and protect your interests.

For more information about defending against charges of disturbing a meeting under NRS 203.090 in Las Vegas, contact the law firm of Hofland & Tomsheck to schedule a free consultation. Call (702) 895-6760 today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.