Pennsylvania’s Top 5 Most Common Summary Offenses—Are You Guilty?

Have you ever found yourself wondering, “Is this a big deal, or just a slap on the wrist?” If you’ve been cited for a summary offense in Pennsylvania, you’re not alone. Summary offenses are some of the most common legal issues people face, and they can sneak up on anyone. As a lawyer who’s handled countless cases like these, let me walk you through Pennsylvania’s top five summary offenses, what they mean, and how you can navigate the legal system if you’ve been charged. Trust me, I’ve seen it all, and some of these might surprise you.

What Are Summary Offenses?

Before diving into the specifics, let’s clear up what a summary offense actually is. In Pennsylvania, summary offenses are the lowest level of criminal offense. Think of them as the legal equivalent of a mosquito bite—annoying, often harmless, but occasionally problematic if not handled properly. These offenses don’t usually carry the weight of a misdemeanor or felony, but they can still lead to fines, a criminal record, and even jail time in some cases.

For example, a speeding ticket is a type of summary offense. But don’t let the low-level classification fool you. Even minor infractions can snowball into bigger issues if ignored.

1. Disorderly Conduct

Disorderly conduct is like the catch-all category of bad behavior. It’s a charge that can cover anything from public fights to being excessively noisy. The law defines it broadly, which means it’s easy to get charged even if you didn’t think you were doing anything wrong.

Real-Life Example: I had a client—let’s call him Joe—who was charged with disorderly conduct after yelling at a referee during his son’s soccer game. Joe was frustrated, sure, but he had no idea his shouting could lead to a legal issue.

What to Do If You’re Charged:

• Stay calm and avoid further conflict.
• Note any witnesses or evidence that could help explain your actions.
• Contact a lawyer to discuss whether your behavior meets the legal definition of disorderly conduct. Spoiler: It might not.

2. Public Drunkenness

We’ve all seen someone who’s had one too many beers at the bar—maybe it’s even been you. Public drunkenness is a summary offense that’s often tied to harmless fun gone a bit too far. However, the consequences can be serious, especially if you’re also charged with related offenses like disorderly conduct or vandalism.

Personal Anecdote: A college student I represented had been celebrating his 21st birthday. He wandered out of a bar, loudly singing “Don’t Stop Believin’” on the street at 2 a.m. He didn’t realize his volume (and lack of balance) could result in a citation for public drunkenness.

How to Avoid Trouble:

• Stick with friends who can keep you in check.
• Call a ride or use public transportation if you’ve been drinking.
• If you’re cited, remember that you have the right to contest the charge—especially if your behavior wasn’t actually disruptive.

3. Retail Theft (a.k.a. Shoplifting)

Retail theft isn’t just a problem for teens acting out; it happens across all age groups and social classes. Even minor thefts—like accidentally walking out with a pack of gum—can result in charges.

Case in Point: One of my clients was a busy mom who forgot to scan a few items at a self-checkout line. She was mortified when she was stopped and charged with retail theft. These systems aren’t perfect, and honest mistakes can lead to unnecessary legal trouble.

Key Takeaways:

• Always double-check your purchases before leaving a store.
• Don’t panic if you’re accused—many cases can be resolved with minimal penalties, especially for first-time offenders.
• Seek legal advice to explore diversionary programs that might keep your record clean.

4. Harassment

Harassment charges can stem from behavior like sending too many text messages or making someone feel threatened. What’s tricky about harassment is that it’s often subjective—what seems harmless to you might feel like a big deal to someone else.

Client Story: I once defended someone who was charged with harassment after repeatedly texting their ex. They thought they were just trying to “talk things out,” but their ex felt overwhelmed and went to the police.

Legal Tips:

• If you’re in a conflict, take a step back before contacting the other person.
• Document any communication to show your side of the story.
• Know that a lawyer can help negotiate lesser penalties or even dismiss the charge if there’s insufficient evidence.

5. Traffic Violations

Speeding tickets, running red lights, or driving without a valid license—these are some of the most common summary offenses. While they might seem minor, multiple traffic violations can lead to points on your license, increased insurance rates, or even suspension.

My Own Experience: I once got a ticket for rolling through a stop sign on my way to court. Talk about irony! Even lawyers aren’t immune to traffic violations, but we do know how to fight them.

Pro Tips:

• Always read your citation carefully to understand the charges.
• Consider attending a traffic school program to reduce points on your license.
• Hire an attorney if you’re facing potential license suspension or hefty fines.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Summary Offenses

It’s tempting to brush off a summary offense as “no big deal,” but ignoring it can lead to:

• Higher fines
• A warrant for your arrest
• A criminal record that could affect employment or housing opportunities

Remember, even minor offenses can have long-term consequences if not handled properly.

How a Lawyer Can Help

As someone who’s been in your shoes (or at least very similar ones), I know how stressful it can feel to face any kind of legal trouble. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to go through it alone. A lawyer can:

• Explain your charges in plain English
• Represent you in court
• Negotiate lesser penalties
• Explore options to keep your record clean

Final Thoughts

Getting cited for a summary offense doesn’t make you a bad person. Life happens, and sometimes we make mistakes or get caught up in misunderstandings. The important thing is to take action and protect your rights.

If you’ve been charged with a summary offense in Pennsylvania, don’t wait. Reach out to a lawyer who can guide you through the process and help you achieve the best possible outcome. I’m here to help—because everyone deserves a second chance.