Every night in Indiana, folks head to bars for a good time. Sometimes, due to excessive alcohol and frayed tempers, disagreements may lead to physical confrontations. Such circumstances raise important questions about the potential consequences.
Can you go to jail after a drunken bar fight in Indiana?
Understanding the consequences of battery in Indiana
Battery in Indiana is a crime. If you hurt someone else intentionally, even in a bar fight, you could face charges. Indiana classifies battery into different levels. If you cause bodily harm, it is a Class B misdemeanor. This level of offense can lead to up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. If the person suffers moderate or severe injury, the charges increase to a Level 6 or 5 felony, respectively, which could lead to longer jail sentences.
The role of public intoxication
Public intoxication in Indiana is also a criminal offense. If intoxicated in a public place and you endanger your life or the life of another person or breach the peace or public decency, you may face a Class B misdemeanor. Like battery, the penalties for a Class B misdemeanor could include up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
When you combine public intoxication with battery
When public intoxication and battery combine in a drunken bar fight, the charges compound. You could face charges for both crimes, meaning you could serve jail time for each offense separately. This could potentially double your time in jail, depending on the circumstances of the altercation and the severity of the injuries involved.
A drunken bar fight in Indiana is no laughing matter. It could lead to serious legal consequences, including the potential for substantial jail time. Always keep your temper in check and walk away from confrontations. Remember, having a good time should never lead to a criminal record.