Indecent Exposure Laws in Texas

When they say “don’t mess with Texas” that includes showing Texas your privates. Exposing yourself to another person in Texas can result in indecent exposure charges. If you’ve been charged with indecent exposure you’ll want to know how the crime is defined, what defenses might be available, and what kinds of punishments might result.

Have You Been Charged for Indecent Exposure in Brazos County?

Indecent exposure is considered a sexual offense in Texas. For a person to be convicted on a charge of indecent exposure in Brazos County, the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt they exposed their anus or any part of their genitals, with the intent to arouse the sexual desire of any person, and they were reckless about whether another person was present who may be alarmed or offended by the act.

Charges of indecent exposure and public lewdness are misdemeanors in Texas. Indecent exposure laws classify the crime as a “Class B” misdemeanor. This charge typically faces a penalty of not more than 180 days in a county jail and/or a fine of no more than $2,000. The sentence imposed will be at the discretion of the judge and will depend upon the circumstances of each defendant and the nature of the offense. For example, a person who has been convicted of the same charge in the past will likely face a harsher sentence than one who has not been convicted before. The penalties these charges carry may not seem as harsh as some other sex crimes, but their impact on your reputation can be just as severe. Having a conviction for indecent exposure appear on your record will raise eyebrows for the rest of your life. It may prevent you from securing a job you want and it may effect your relationships.

Call a Bryan-College Station Sex Crimes Attorney!

With all this on the line, you can’t allow the state to prosecute you without a fight. You need an experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorney to take your side and do the fighting for you. We understand there is an explanation behind every criminal act someone might be charged with. Some defenses to this charge may include lack of intent. Since the intent must be to arouse sexual desire, urinating behind a dumpster likely would not be consider “indecent.” Another mitigating circumstance may be intoxication. This is not a standard defense to charges, but intoxication may be a factor reducing penalties. Also, what if your exposure was inadvertent? What if you had no intention of being seen? You need someone to prove that for you. Proving it can make all the difference between the most severe penalties and an acquittal. If we decide to accept representation in your case, rest assured you will have an experienced advocate on your side, fully prepared to go the distance to defend your legal rights. We work as a team to give you the best possible representation. You need a criminal defense lawyer who understands the delicacy of these charges and the impact they can have on the rest of your life.

 

Let us help you defend your rights. Call us today so we can make a difference.