Although indecent exposure is ususally a misdemeanor charge, a conviction of indecent exposure carries a social stigma that will almost certainly haunt the convicted person for perhaps their lifetime. A conviction of indecent exposure may required the convicted person to register as sex offenders.

A conviction for indecent exposure may also prevent the accused from being able to gain or keep employment. People accused of or convicted for indecent exposure may also suffer unwarranted public disgrace and humiliation, social shunning, and may become the targets of violence.

Those charged with indecent exposure often suffer from psychiatric disorders that compel them to expose themselves in public. However, criminal courts are not pyschiatric hospitals and the focus in a criminal court of a "solution" to the problem is not primarily to help the perpetrator. Depending upon the facts of a particular case, the consequences can be devestating not only to the acused, but to their families as well.

A charge of indecent exposure generally means that the defendant is accused of displaying themselves inappropriately, in a public manner. Usually, but not always, an indecent exposure charge involves displaying one''s genitals to one or more persons. Because there may be an intention of indecent exposure for a sexual gratifcation, the crime may be considered an offense for which the person may eventually become a registered sex offender.

The requirements for charging an individual with indecent exposure can vary a great deal between states. However, people have actually been charged with indecent exposure for walking naked past a window in their own home to wearing a Speedo and cut-off shirt into a fast food restaurant!

It is always critical if you are accused of indecent exposure to immediately retain an attorney. Criminal lawyers that have experience representing charges of indecent exposure and who are familiar with indecent exposure laws in your area will be able to offer you qualified assistance. Please contact us.