Fight or disorderly conduct in Hungary? English-speaking criminal defence lawyer, 0–24
After an incident in a bar or club, on the street or at a sports event in Hungary, the police can quickly open criminal proceedings for disorderly conduct (garázdaság). Cases often reach court within days, so it matters to have a lawyer straight away.
Dr. László-Tamás Benő: +36 70 379 0245 (0–24)
What does Hungarian law say?
The offence (Section 339 of the Hungarian Criminal Code) is provocative, violent and antisocial behaviour capable of causing outrage or alarm. Nobody needs to be injured. Provocative antisocial behaviour without violence also counts as disorderly conduct if it is linked to prior drug use.
What counts as violent behaviour? Under Section 459 (1) point 4 of the Hungarian Criminal Code, any aggressive physical act against another person is violent behaviour, even if it is not capable of causing injury: a shove or a slap can be enough. In the aggravated forms, the offence is committed in a group if at least three people take part; with a weapon if the offender carries a working firearm or explosives or threatens with an imitation of them; and armed if they carry an object capable of killing, such as a knife, in order to overcome or prevent resistance.
What penalty can you face?
- Basic offence: up to 2 years’ imprisonment
- In a group, with a weapon, armed, seriously disturbing public order, or at a public event: up to 3 years
Instead of imprisonment, the court may impose a fine or community service.
What should you do now?
- Do not make a statement without a lawyer.
- Ask for an interpreter in your own language.
- Ask for copies of the official records and call us before the interview.
- If a family member has been detained in Hungary, find out where they are being held and call us immediately.
How we help
- We explain every document and every step of the procedure in English
- Assistance at the interview in English
- Obtaining CCTV footage and having witnesses heard
- Assessing self-defence
- Representation in fast-track proceedings and in court
Frequently asked questions
What if I was the one attacked?
If the act was lawful self-defence, it is not punishable. It has to be proven, however, which is why witnesses and recordings matter.
Do I have to stay in Hungary?
It depends on the measures ordered. We can represent you remotely at certain stages, but the decision lies with the authorities.
I live abroad. Who will try my case?
An offence committed in Hungary is dealt with by the Hungarian authorities. We can represent you and keep you informed in English.
Call us now, day or night
Dr. László-Tamás Benő: +36 70 379 0245
Office: Falk Miksa utca 4, mezzanine 4, 1055 Budapest (by appointment only)
See also: Detained or arrested in Hungary · Hungarian version