[WA] Is it illegal to walk in public while intoxicated?

I understand that you're in a tough situation right now. Have you considered how far away the food is and whether you feel safe walking there?

Are you currently alone, or do you have someone with you who can assist you?

Is there anything else the Lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your safety concerns.

Hello! I'm Tony, your legal expert here to assist you. I understand you're dealing with a situation involving walking to get food in Tacoma, WA, while being concerned about safety. Could you share more details about any specific concerns or questions you have regarding this situation?

Please don't walk right now. Even if it is only 0.3 miles, walking highly intoxicated and alone at night, especially around the steep hills and uneven sidewalks of Tacoma's Stadium District and North End, is incredibly risky. Your safety is the absolute priority right now.

Here is what you should do instead:

Order delivery: Use an app like DoorDash or UberEats to bring the food directly to your door. You can stay warm, safe, and off the streets.

Take a rideshare: If you must go to get the food, order an Uber or Lyft. Even for a 0.3 mile trip, having a driver pick you up and drop you off is far safer than walking alone in your current state.

Call a friend: If you have anyone nearby, call or text them to see if they can pick you up or bring you something. If you absolutely have to step outside, make sure you are on a phone call with someone you trust the entire time so they know exactly where you are.

Please stay put, lock your doors, and let the food come to you. Are you in a safe indoor spot right now?

It is not illegal to walk drunk in Washington. Washington state does not have a public intoxication law, in fact, the state decriminalized public drunkenness decades ago (the old (RCW 71.08.010) penalty for public intoxication was repealed effective January 1, 1975). State law treats alcoholism and public intoxication as public health issues rather than crimes.

However, there are two major exceptions you need to know:

1. Disorderly Conduct: If you are acting aggressively, shouting, blocking traffic, or damaging property while drunk, you can still be arrested for disorderly conduct. (WA Rev Code § 9A.84.030)
2. Your Own Safety: Under Washington's behavioral health involuntary treatment laws, if a police officer finds you highly intoxicated and believes you are a danger to yourself, such as walking into the street or being unable to care for yourself, they have the legal authority to take you into protective or emergency custody. This isn't an arrest or a criminal charge. It means they can transport you to a hospital, a sobering center, or your home to keep you safe.

Even though it isn't a crime, the biggest risk tonight isn't the police. It's your safety. Please stay inside and order delivery if you can. Are you currently somewhere safe indoors?

I hope the information I provided was helpful. If you have any follow-up questions or need guidance on your next steps, just let me know. Please remember that this is general information rather than formal legal advice. If you'd like to hire a local lawyer, I'm happy to provide recommendations.