California Indecent Exposure Defense Attorneys
Indecent exposure is simply defined as purposefully exposing oneself in a public manner where said exposure is considered lewd and out of place. Intentional exposure of part of one’s body, where exposure of that particular part is seen as offensive and contrary to the decency standards set forth in a specific community, is for all intensive purposes classified as indecent exposure.
Although indecent exposure criteria may vary by region, with certain regions being much less tolerable of exposure than others, it remains consistent throughout that exposure of one’s genitalia, backside, or chest region (for females) is lacking in decency and therefore characterized as indecent exposure accordingly.
Defining Indecent Exposure in California
According to California’s penal code, Section 314:
“Every person who willfully and lewdly, either…
- Exposes his person, or the private parts thereof, in any public place, or in any place where there are present other persons to be offended or annoyed thereby; or
- Procures, counsels, or assists any person so to expose himself or take part in any model artist exhibition, or to make any other exhibition of himself to public view, or the view of any number of persons, such as is offensive to decency, or is adapted to excite to of thoughts or acts is guilty of a misdemeanor.”
For an offense in which a person enters a private residence or the inhabited portion of any building, punishment can include up to one year in prison. For all subsequent instances of indecent exposure, a convicted offender is guilty of a felony. Also worth noting is that the first offense of indecent exposure may result in a felony conviction if the offender has a previous conviction.
What Are Consequences Of Indecent Exposure?
A conviction of indecent exposure can lead to multiple problems. Not only will one have to face imprisonment, but will also have to endure the stigma that comes along with being convicted of a sex crime. Background checks will reveal an indecent exposure conviction to potential employers, and the convicted will have to register as a sex offender in California. Regardless, indecent exposure convictions can drastically affect a person’s life.
In all indecent exposure cases, it must be proven that the exposed party did so with the intent of disturbing the viewing party. Instances where the exposed party unintentionally exposes oneself cannot necessarily be termed indecent exposure, and those who are accused in cases such as these are not necessarily guilty. The California indecent exposure attorneys at Wallin & Klarich are experienced criminal defense attorneys and know how to handle your case. Our team of qualified and aggressive attorneys have the resources and skills to help you get your charges reduced or in some incidents, dismissed completely. Please call us today at 877-230-1528 for a free consultation.
