Indecent Exposure
Indecent exposure is governed by California Penal Code section 314. According to the law, indecent exposure is defined as willfully exposing ones genitals to someone else, motivated by a desire to sexually gratifying oneself or offending the other person. Needless to say, this is a rather broad and vague law, therefore often being used to encompass a wide range of actions.
Specifically, California law requires several elements to be present in order for one to be charged with indecent exposure. This includes:
- Willfully exposing one’s genitals
- In the presence of someone who may be offended or annoyed by their actions
- With the intent to direct public attention to one’s genitals for the purpose of either sexually gratifying yourself or someone else or to sexually offend another person
The Penalties
Although an indecent exposure charge may seem rather minor, it can have long lasting, serious consequences. According to section 314, a first offense for indecent exposure is a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months of jail time in a county jail and a fine of up to $1,000.00. With a second offense, the charge is enhanced to a felony, which could include a sentence to a California state prison.
However, serving time could be the least of your worries. More troubling is the fact that a seemingly minor indecent exposure conviction will put you under the California sex offender registry, which requires you to stay publically registered as a sex offender for the duration of your life. Needless to say, this will have long-lasting consequences stretching from your ability to get a job to your family life.
Your Options
Luckily, you do have options to fight your indecent exposure charge. With a good defense, you may be able to get your indecent exposure charge reduced – or even dismissed. For example, common defenses include that you never in fact exposed yourself, you were unaware that anyone was present who would be offended, or that you are the victim of mistaken identity.
Your Los Angeles Defense Attorney
In order to properly defend against your California indecent exposure charge and to protect your reputation, career and family, you need to seek the advice of an experienced California sex crimes defense lawyer. The Law Offices of Jonathan I. Kelman specialize in defending such California criminal charges as indecent exposure. If you or a loved one is facing an indecent exposure charge, seek the support of an attorney practicing only in criminal defense.
Remember, when your future is on the line, call the Law Offices of Jonathan I. Kelman at 310.286.1218 for your free initial consultation.