Public intoxication, also known as "
drunk and disorderly conduct" (sometimes, incorrectly, as "
drunken disorderly"), is a
summary offence in many countries. Public intoxication laws vary widely from country to country.
Whilst it is technically illegal in most states and territories of Australia to be drunk and disorderly, most Australian police take a humane approach with regards to intoxicated persons (IP). This includes transporting the IP to his or her residence or temporary detention at a police station or other welfare establishment until the IP is sober.[citation needed]
Prosecution (charging) is generally only considered if the IP is violent or other offences have been committed.[citation needed]
In Canada, liquor laws are made by the provinces and not the federal government.
