Indecent Exposure Attorney In Orange County, CA
Indecent exposure is a serious crime in California which can carry hefty fines and even jail time. You may face these charges if you intentionally expose your genitals in a public place under certain, specific circumstances. Depending on the facts of the case, indecent exposure can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, and convicted individuals will likely need to register as sex offenders for at least 10 years.
When facing these charges, you need a skilled Orange County indecent exposure lawyer who will work hard to protect your future. The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman fights for the underdog and understands that a mistake or misunderstanding should not define you. Attorney Goodman has decades of criminal defense experience and is familiar with how to strategically approach these cases. When you trust her with your case, you will receive aggressive, compassionate, and results-oriented representation every step of the way.
WHAT IS CONSIDERED “INDECENT EXPOSURE” IN CALIFORNIA?
Someone is not necessarily guilty of indecent exposure if their private parts become exposed in public. Under California law, an accused person’s conduct must meet very specific definitions to be convicted of this offense.
Under the California Penal Code, an individual commits indecent exposure if they deliberately expose their genitals in front of someone who might be offended or annoyed by the act. The individual must also intend to direct attention to themselves and seek to offend or enjoy sexual gratification as a result of the act. In other words, if someone accidentally exposes their genitals to someone who is ultimately offended by the exposure, they have not committed indecent exposure. Someone is also not guilty of indecent exposure if they expose their genitals in a public place but make an effort to not be seen by others.
Note that underwear and female breasts are not considered private parts or genitals for purposes of indecent exposure prosecution. Additionally, be aware that public urination or defecation can trigger indecent exposure charges if the act meets the above conditions.
If you have been charged with indecent exposure, schedule a confidential consultation by calling 714-879-5770 or contacting the firm online.
Renowned Success Rate
Criminal cases are often complicated. There are two sides to every story, and it is important that the court sees the situation clearly. We can help defend you in your criminal case and make sure your perspective is heard.
WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR AN INDECENT EXPOSURE CONVICTION IN CALIFORNIA?
The penalties you could face for indecent exposure depend on how you are charged. If this is your first offense and there are no aggravating factors, you will likely be charged with a misdemeanor crime. While this is generally the best-case scenario if the charges cannot be dropped altogether, be aware that the consequences of even a misdemeanor sex crime conviction can lead to life-altering consequences.
Penalties for a misdemeanor indecent exposure conviction in California include:
- Six months of jail time
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Registration as a sex offender for a minimum of 10 years
You may be charged with aggravated indecent exposure if the alleged crime took place in a home or any other inhabited building. Aggravated indecent exposure is a “wobbler,” meaning it can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. You could also face felony indecent exposure charges if you have been convicted of this crime before or if you have been convicted of Lewd Acts with a Minor. Misdemeanor aggravated indecent exposure and felony indecent exposure come with increased penalties.
The requirement to register as a sex offender alone warrants the involvement of a skilled Orange County indecent exposure attorney when facing these charges. After assessing the facts of the case, Attorney Goodman can review your legal options and possible defense strategies.
It is with tremendous thanks and a grateful heart that we let you know how much we appreciated your expertise, advice and phone calls on [client's name] behalf. You are a person of service and dedication.
- Former client’s parents
I don't know where to start. Honestly, I don't think I could possibly write anything that would come close to describing Mrs. Goodman's Skill as a Lawyer , she truly is remarkable at what she does. Do yourself a favor, if your in a bind, and are looking for a well respected lawyer that can produce results.... Call Jacqueline! I…
- Sharif A.
Ms Goodman and her staff were beyond helpful. I was in an extremely difficult situation that I hadn’t been in before and needed help. I was referred to Jackie and her office who were extremely helpful. Jackie and her team were extremely empathetic and knowledgeable. They were quick to respond, took action, and kept me informed. Thank you Ms Goodman…
- Nick K.
Ms.Goodman has been an amazing and thorough lawyer representing my family. She has shown up to each court date, being prepared and ready to speak to the judge. She has been a great communicator with my family and kept us informed along the way. She is authentic, and will go the long mile on your case. Choose her to represent…
- Elizabeth E.
I needed an appointment with Ms. Jacqueline Goodman and it was urgent. The best part was that she called me back immediately and I did not have to drive an hour to see her. The first meeting is free and she spoke with me for a lengthy time and she made me feel like for the first time in seeking…
- Mary P.
Ms Goodman was excellent an very professional. She took the time to understand our concerns an worries. I had 2 really bad cases facing 10+ years for trafficking, sales, an distribution between the both ... she was able to get me the best deal an walked away with probation an a new look at life. I will always recommend her…
- Joe G.
Ms. Goodman and her team is by far the best in Southern California. I literally had zero hope of getting anything but prison time on my current case and Ms. Goodman somehow got me an interview for probation. I can say it hasn’t been easy and she’s been doing a lot out of love more than any other attorney would…
- Former Client
The court was offering 9 years for 459pc. After retaining her I got the deal I wanted and even better I was free after serving just 2 years. She's an amazing attorney that you can count on.
- Aliya J.
I can't even begin to express how amazing Jacqueline was when I worked with her for a close friend's case. She was always a quick text away, and when we worried she was the vote of confidence we needed to keep going. Her office staff was also SO easy to work with. Her closing statement moved me, the family, and…
- Caleigha C.
Best lawyer! Jacqueline Goodman is an amazing lawyer, she knows her law well. She helped my brother out of a messy situation and she was always easy to contact and gave me all the information that came her way.
- Rosie C.
Jacqueline, was very professional, and knowledgeable. She listened closely, as we discussed my case. I could tell She truly cared about me. I was very pleased the outcome, and would strongly recommend Her. Honest, hard working, and compassion, would describe, Jacquie.
- Dorian C.
Ms. Jacqueline Goodman was a beacon of hope to my daughter at a time when options and hope seemed limited. Her hard work and dedication was an outcome of Excellence. Ms. Goodman’s attention to detail and knowledge of laws are truly unsurpassed. Thank you.
- Ralph S.
Jacqueline is the best! If any of my friends or family found themselves in a situation where they needed a Criminal Defense attorney I would highly recommend her. She and her staff are extremely professional and they know their stuff. I can't say enough good things!
- Travis H.
She was carring and attentive, always up front with information. She truly cares about her clients and works diligently to achieve the best possible outcome. My family and I truly admire and respect this amazing and talented lawyer. She is definitely someone you can count on for the best advice and outcome.
- Chip E.
Great attorney to work with. She's a boss and has some serious attorney swagger. When I walked into the court room with her, everybody stopped and starred. I felt like I was getting represented by a superstar attorney. She'll run circles around any DA.
- Marcus W.
DEFENDING AGAINST INDECENT EXPOSURE CHARGES IN CALIFORNIA
Because an accused person’s conduct must meet specific definitions to be convicted of indecent exposure, a variety of defense strategies may be available. Preventing the prosecution from proving even a single element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt will result in a favorable outcome.
An Orange County indecent exposure lawyer can help you pursue one or more defense techniques, which may include establishing:
- You did not intentionally expose yourself. If you can prove the exposure was unintentional because of a wardrobe malfunction, you cannot be convicted of indecent exposure.
- You were not aware others were around. If you thought you were alone when you exposed yourself, you have not committed indecent exposure under the law. Alternatively, if you were among friends and agreed it would be fine for you to discreetly urinate, you may not realize that another person who could become offended has entered the space in the course of completing the act. In these types of scenarios, you could show you did not deliberately try to offend anyone and were not aware of the possibility of doing so.
- You are a victim of mistaken identity. When someone is shocked by the sudden appearance of genitals, their first instinct is likely to look away. They may not be paying sufficiently close attention to whoever was actually responsible for the exposure.
Some allegations of indecent exposure are the result of misunderstandings, and a compelling defense strategy can help avoid jail time and the need to register as a sex offender. No matter your circumstances, The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman is prepared to hear your side of the story and get work on your case.
Fill out an online contact form or call 714-879-5770 to request confidential legal advice today.