Indecent Exposure

Individuals may be accused of indecent exposure even when the incident was innocent, such as urinating in public or nude sunbathing. Unfortunately, people often find themselves facing criminal charges or labeled a sex offender because of something they did which was not intentional. At The Justice Firm, our Los Angeles indecent exposure defense lawyers work to protect those arrested or charged with all types of criminal offenses. We know that no one wants to face the ruin of a career or reputation; criminal penalties can be harsh as well, and include fines, jail or prison time, probation, and more.

California Penal Code Section 314 defines indecent exposure as a misdemeanor offense which involves displaying one's private parts (or genitalia) in a public manner. To be more specific, the law prohibits acts which would likely annoy or offend others. Certain activities such as nude sunbathing on your own property would not necessarily qualify as grounds for criminal prosecution. It is also important to note that you may be in violation of the laws regarding indecent exposure if you assist or encourage someone else to expose him or herself in a public place, or anywhere where others are likely to be offended.

While the penalties in LA for indecent exposure are not as harsh as those for other more serious crimes, the penalties are still quite serious, particularly for those who are innocent. It is an unfortunate fact that individuals may be arrested or convicted not on the basis of fact, but based on a judge or police officer's opinion. Unlike in other cases where there may be solid evidence, this statute is one in which the language is often open to interpretation. We cannot stress how critical it is to protect your innocence, as a conviction could leave you facing fines of up to $1,000 along with up to 6 months in jail.

Even worse, you will be ordered to register as a sex offender for life, just as those who are convicted of serious sex offenses including rape, sexual assault, or child molestation/pornography. We urge you to contact our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys immediately in order to protect your legal rights, freedom, and reputation.

In certain situations, those accused of indecent exposure may also be charged with sexual assault; this may be true if physical contact is made. Additionally, you may face harsher penalties or enhanced charges if the alleged indecent exposure involves a minor or occurs in or on another individual's living quarters or property. In order to understand the charges you may face and what to expect throughout the criminal justice process, it is important you speak with an experienced and capable criminal defense attorney.

The Justice Firm is a highly skilled team of Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers dedicated to protecting the legal rights of those accused of all types of crimes, including indecent exposure. We will work aggressively to secure the best possible outcome for you, and are ready to begin work on your case now. Contact us today by calling 310-914-2444 for a free consultation.