D&D 5E Attacks of Opportunity at Disadvantage?

[patwil]

My character has the War Caster Feat which allows me to use a spell instead of a weapon attack for attacks of opportunity (AoO). My question is - normally ranged spells have disadvantage when cast in melee but the attack of opportunity is triggered by my opponent leaving my melee range, so if I cast the cantrip Fire Bolt during this AoO do I incur disadvantage or not?

Thanks

 

[Hriston]

Yes, the reaction interrupts the creature's movement as it leaves your reach, so any ranged attack is at disadvantage. Choosing a spell that let's you make a melee spell attack or that doesn't involve an attack roll might be more appropriate.

 

[Leatherhead]

I would have to say OAs count as a melee range attack, mostly to avoid headaches that would occur otherwise (namely, not being able to stab people with non-reach weapons). Good news though, if you are using a spell that has a saving throw (like Acid Splash), it doesn't suffer disadvantage. Likewise for spells with melee attacks (such as Shocking Grasp).

 

[thethain]

You do occur disadvantage, choose your reaction spell carefully or pickup crossbow expert..