In England and Wales, violent disorder is a serious public order offence under the Public Order Act 1986. It involves three or more people using or threatening unlawful violence in a way that would cause a person of reasonable firmness present at the scene to fear for their safety.
If you are facing an allegation of violent disorder, securing expert legal representation early is essential. Call or WhatsApp 01162 555155 for urgent advice and support.
What is the Offence of Violent Disorder?
Violent disorder occurs when three or more individuals are involved in using or threatening unlawful violence, and their collective conduct causes or is likely to cause fear for personal safety among bystanders.
The offence can happen during protests, large fights, sporting events, or even spontaneous gatherings. It is important to note that:
- Each individual can be guilty of violent disorder even if they did not personally use violence, as long as they were part of the group.
- There is no requirement for an actual victim to come forward – it is enough if the conduct would have caused fear.
- Violent disorder is classified as an either-way offence, meaning it can be heard in the Magistrates’ Court or Crown Court, depending on how serious the incident is.
Examples of Violent Disorder
Here are some examples where charges of violent disorder might arise:
- A large street brawl outside a nightclub where several people throw punches and use bottles as weapons.
- Football fans clashing violently after a match, causing public fear and disruption.
- Protesters smashing windows and clashing with police during a demonstration, leading to injuries and property damage.
- A group fighting in a park where weapons like bats or knives are brandished in front of members of the public.
In each case, it is the group’s collective behaviour and the fear it causes that are central to the offence.
How Violent Disorder Differs from Affray
While violent disorder and affray are both public order offences, they are distinct in key ways:
| Aspect | Violent Disorder | Affray |
| Number of people involved | Minimum of three people required | Can be committed by one person alone |
| Nature of offence | Group violence causing serious fear or disruption | Individual or small-scale violence causing fear |
| Public impact | Typically greater, with wider disruption or fear among the public | Focused on the fear caused to immediate bystanders |
| Severity | Considered more serious than affray | Less serious but still significant offence |
In short, violent disorder involves more participants and usually causes broader public fear and disorder than affray.
Penalties for Violent Disorder
Violent disorder is treated very seriously by the courts. Sentences vary depending on the facts of each case, but potential penalties include:
- A community order (in less serious cases)
- Significant fines
- Imprisonment of up to five years if convicted in the Crown Court
The court will take into account:
- The level of violence used or threatened
- Whether weapons were involved
- The number of people involved
- The extent of fear or disruption caused
- The defendant’s previous criminal record
Due to the serious nature of violent disorder, immediate expert legal representation is vital.
Why Choose Sahota & Sahota Solicitors for Violent Disorder Defence?
At Sahota & Sahota Solicitors, we have extensive experience in representing clients charged with public order offences, including violent disorder.
We are:
- Experts in defending violent disorder cases in both Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court
- Skilled in challenging group identification evidence and the prosecution’s case
- Available 24/7 for urgent police station advice and representation
Whether you are accused of being a bystander, minor participant, or leading figure, we will work hard to secure the best possible outcome for you.
Recent Violent Disorder Cases Handled
- Successfully defended a client accused of participating in a large public violent disorder, resulting in a not guilty verdict after trial.
- Negotiated a downgrade of charges from violent disorder to affray, resulting in a non-custodial sentence.
- Represented clients charged following football-related incidents.
Contact Sahota & Sahota Solicitors Today
If you or someone you know has been arrested or charged with violent disorder, do not delay in seeking specialist legal advice.
Call or WhatsApp us on 01162 555155 for immediate legal assistance.
Visit us at: Sahota & Sahota Solicitors, 25 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 6TE.
At Sahota & Sahota, we will stand by you every step of the way, fighting to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
