Legal Definitions - unlawful assembly

An unlawful assembly is when three or more people gather together with the intention of disturbing the public peace. This means that they plan to do something that could cause danger to the people around them and make others feel afraid. It doesn't matter if their purpose is legal or illegal, as long as they intend to cause trouble.

If the group takes steps towards carrying out their plan, it becomes a "rout." If they actually go through with it and cause violence, it becomes a "riot." Anyone who participates in any of these actions is guilty of a misdemeanor.

• A group of people gather outside a courthouse with signs and loudspeakers, shouting and blocking the entrance. They are not allowed to do this because it disturbs the peace and could intimidate people who need to enter the courthouse.
• A group of people gather in a park to protest a new law. They have not obtained a permit to protest and their actions could cause danger to others in the park. This is an unlawful assembly.
• A group of people gather outside a store and start breaking windows and stealing items. This is a riot because they are causing violence and damage to property.

These examples illustrate how an unlawful assembly can be dangerous and disruptive to the community. It is important to respect the laws and regulations in place to maintain public safety and order.