Orange County Lewd Conduct Lawyer Certified Specialist in Criminal Law

Orange County Lewd Conduct Lawyer

Lewd Conduct Attorney In Orange County, CA

Not everyone realizes that a public display of affection can lead to criminal charges if it goes too far. The term “lewd conduct” is the name of the criminal act that encompasses a variety of scenarios, including touching oneself for sexual gratification in a public place, touching someone else’s private parts for sexual gratification in a public place, or even soliciting sexual activity to be conducted in a public place.

You do not want a criminal record, so if you have been arrested and are now facing these charges, it is in your best interest to hire an Orange County lewd conduct lawyer to represent you. The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman is committed to providing aggressive defense representation to individuals accused of all types of crimes, including those involving lewd conduct. Attorney Goodman is a Certified Criminal Law Specialist who fights for the underdog and can provide the skilled advocacy you need and deserve.

Understanding How Entrapment Affects Lewd Conduct Cases in California

Because it is also unlawful to solicit “lewd conduct,” many lewd conduct charges in Orange County are the result of sting operations. A law enforcement officer may pose as a civilian and loiter around areas where lewd conduct frequently occurs. If someone does happen to voluntarily solicit them for lewd conduct, they can face criminal charges, but in practice, undercover law enforcement will sometimes pressure or encourage solicitation. In these instances, a person consequently charged with lewd conduct may be a victim of entrapment, which occurs when someone is compelled to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed. If you believe you may have been entrapped by law enforcement, The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman may be able to get the charges dismissed.

You do not need to face the criminal justice system alone. Schedule an initial consultation with a seasoned legal professional by calling (657) 571-2266 or filling out an online contact form.

What Is Considered “Lewd Conduct” in California?

Lewd conduct describes several distinct types of criminal offenses in California. All involve actual or solicited sexual conduct that occurs in a public place where someone else could see and become offended.

It is unlawful to touch your own or someone else’s breasts, butt, or genitals for purposes of sexual gratification in a public place when you knew or reasonably should have known that someone who could be offended is present. It is unlawful to solicit these forms of public sexual conduct under these circumstances.

Locations that are considered “public places” for purposes of enforcing lewd conduct laws include:

Public parks
Public bathrooms
Vehicles parked on a public street
Lobbies or hallways in an apartment complex

For example, someone could be charged with lewd conduct if they engaged in physical sexual activity with another person in a public bathroom where they reasonably should have known that another party could enter the bathroom, witness the conduct, and become offended. A person could also be criminally charged if they ask someone in a public bathroom to engage in sexual activity that could be reasonably witnessed by another party.

Note that the physical contact must be for purposes of sexual gratification to qualify as lewd conduct. You must also have been aware or reasonably should have been aware of the possibility that someone could see you and become offended. If either of these conditions does not apply to your situation, you have not committed lewd conduct.

An Orange County lewd conduct attorney can evaluate the facts of your case and advise whether the prosecution is likely to have a strong case against you. Attorney Goodman can help you understand your rights, your defense options, and how the legal process will work.

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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

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What Are the Penalties for a Lewd Conduct Conviction in California?

Lewd conduct is a misdemeanor offense. A conviction can lead to up to 6 months of jail time and up to $1,000 in fines. Fortunately, individuals convicted of lewd conduct are not typically required to register as a sex offender for any amount of time. While this makes the consequences of a lewd conduct conviction less severe than those of other sex crimes, having any kind of criminal record can make it more difficult to obtain housing and employment opportunities. An Orange County lewd conduct lawyer can fight to protect your rights and help you avoid these consequences.

Do not plead guilty or accept a plea bargain without first consulting a legal professional. Fill out an online contact form or call (657) 571-2266 to schedule your complimentary consultation.

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Have questions? Ready to get started? Call (657) 571-2266 today or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

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