Indecent exposure involves purposefully displaying one’s body inappropriately in public, which usually is described as displaying one’s private body parts or genitals in a public place, causing others to be disturbed or alarmed. For an act to be indecent, another person, a viewer, must be present, and if a minor is involved, the case will be considered more serious. Furthermore, an indecent exposure charge can be increased to sexual assault if any physical contact is made.
Although often a misdemeanor, indecent exposure is sometimes considered a felony and may be classified as a sex offence, which could result in being registered as a sex offender, a lifelong requirement which can detrimentally affect housing and employment opportunities. In addition to possible imprisonment, probation, and fines, the stigma associated with a conviction of indecent exposure is serious enough to make it important to retain a criminal defense attorney if you are ever arrested for indecent exposure.
A skilled indecent exposure lawyer will be able to identify the local jurisdiction’s requirements for indecent exposure, but the definition can change from place to place. For instance, an individual can be on his or her own property and be charged with indecent exposure. Certain clothes, such as a Speedo or swimsuit, can also result in an indecent exposure charge if they are deemed to be inappropriate.
A criminal defense attorney will be able to determine which indecent exposure defense is best for you. Some typical defenses include victim consent, lack of factual evidence, or mistaken identity. One key concern a criminal defense lawyer will try to discover is whether anyone witnessed the act. A lack of intent, such as when the indecent exposure occurs accidentally, may sometimes be a justifiable defense, especially if the individual tries to hide the exposure. Perhaps the exposure occurred during a party prank, or through an act which was perfectly normal and proper but still offended one individual. Someone may have even made a false allegation as a means of retribution. Skilled sexual assault attorneys and molestation attorneys can find the right defense for your situation.
The potentially devastating consequences of being convicted of indecent exposure make it vitally important for you to retain a criminal defense attorney immediately if you are charged with indecent exposure. Depending on your jurisdiction, you may be facing a lifetime of stigma and inconvenience. Early intervention by a trained and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney will help you avoid charges of indecent exposure.
If you want the best in knowledgeable legal representation & a criminal law firm that will treat your case with consideration and concern, please contact us 24/7 at (866) 847-1247 for a FREE confidential consultation.
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