Houston Indecent Exposure Defense Attorneys

Indecent Exposure

Indecent exposure is a serious sexual offense in the state of Texas. Even if the case is eventually dismissed, a simple accusation can be enough to permanently damage one’s personal and professional reputation.

Beyond the harrowing effects of being charged with indecent exposure, the specific circumstances surrounding your case may or may not heighten the potential penalties involved. During the instance in question, if a child under the age of 17 was present, you may be charged with indecency with a child. If that is the case, the severity of the charge and its penalties will increase.

While the prospect of facing indecent exposure can be terrifying, the aid of an experienced sex crimes attorney can make the situation feel less intimidating as you prepare and execute your defense.

Any sex crime charge can result in societal rejection and The Gonzalez Law Group understands what’s at stake for individuals facing an indecent exposure charge. Our firm’s team of attorneys have years of experience working with clients who’ve been charged with sex crimes and knows the specifics about the process.

Their team of experienced lawyers will work with you to craft a refined defense while assisting you in navigating the often-perplexing world of legal battles. The Gonzalez Law Group works with clients in the cities of Houston, Friendswood, Pasadena, Pearland, Baytown, or La Porte.

Call (832) 530-4070 to schedule a free consultation.

Overview of Indecent Exposure

What is Indecent Exposure?

To be convicted of indecent exposure, all of the following components of the law must be satisfactorily met.

  • “A person commits an offense if he exposes his anus or any part of his genitals…”
    • In order to be charged with IE, you must have exposed your anus or a part of your genitals
  • “…with the intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person…”
    • In order to be charged with IE one must have exposed themselves with the intention of arousing themselves or someone else.
  • “…and he is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by this act.”
    • In order to be charged with IE one must have exposed themselves in a setting that could possibly or in fact did result in the offense/alarm/distress of another person.

Although all of these components must be met, there are cases in which the prosecution knows exactly how to frame the situation in order to hit each marker. This is one reason why it is critical to have an attorney that is experienced in overseeing indecent exposure defense.

In some instances, public urination can be charged under indecent exposure. If this action is conducted near an area likely to have children or is performed by someone with a previous felony or misdemeanor background, it is possible you might be required to register as a sex offender. Similarly, if one is repeatedly arrested and charged with indecent exposure, it is possible to be charged with a felony and forced to register as a sex offender.

What Are the Penalties?

The punishment for a first offense indecent exposure charge (without the presence of a child under 17) is as follows:

  • Class B Misdemeanor àUp to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $2000

The punishment for a repeat Indecent Exposure Offender (Without the presence of a child) is as follows:

  • Repeated Class B Misdemeanor à30-180 days in jail and a fine up to $2000

The punishment for Indecent Exposure in the presence of a child under 17 is as follows:

  • Third Degree Felony à2-10 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000; may be required to register on the sex offender registry.

It should also be considered that having a sex crime conviction, even if it is just a misdemeanor, can be catastrophic for one’s personal and professional life. It is not uncommon for individuals convicted of indecent exposure to lose their jobs, feel ostracized by their friends and family, and have a limited number of career options into the future. Having a qualified legal team handle your defense might be the most important action you take in fighting for a bright, positive future.

Additional Resources

Chapter 21 of the Texas State Penal Code– This is the official website that houses the penal code for the State of Texas. Utilizing this information, one can gain a more thorough understanding of the exact wording of the law, as well as the established penalties for the charges they are accused of.

Sex Offenders Laws Need Change– The Hill news journal discusses how the sentence of sex offenders is tougher than other criminal charges. The newspaper page demonstrates why being registered as a sex offender can impact the way released prisoners are able to make it out in society.

Lawyer for Indecent Exposure in Harris County, TX

The legal team at The Gonzalez Law Group is dedicated to the cases of their clients. They have several years of experience working with clients who have been charged with sex crimes. Our firm understands how trying this time can be for clients and their families. We are dedicated to providing an in-depth analysis of each case.

The Gonzalez Law Group also supports maintain direct communication with each client. Transparency is very important to us, and we won’t leave any client in the blind. Call (832) 530-4070 for a free consultation with no attachment. Our firm works with clients in the cities of Houston, Friendswood, Pasadena, Pearland, Baytown, and La Porte.

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