Pensacola Public Sexual Indecency Attorneys
Public sexual indecency is all too often viewed as a relatively minor infraction. It encompasses a wide variety of acts that range from explicit to accidental to “all in good fun.” Yet, the consequences for violating Florida’s indecent exposure laws are nothing to joke about. Jail time, fines, and possibly being forced to register as a sex offender carry serious and long-term implications that can make finding housing, job hunting, and personal relationships a challenge.
At The Morris Firm, our Pensacola sex crimes defense lawyers understand the serious repercussions that can arise from a public sexual indecency conviction. That’s why we work diligently to protect the legal rights of our clients and craft a defense strategy that offers the best chance at a favorable outcome. If you’ve been charged with a public sexual indecency crime, you need immediate support and a defense team that can help you navigate the legal process.
For more information on how we can help defend your rights, call us, and let’s talk about the details of your case. To set up a case evaluation, call us at (850) 503-2626. We want to help you move forward with your life and get you going in a positive direction.
What Is Public Sexual Indecency?
The most common example of public sexual indecency that can be prosecuted under Florida law is that of lewdness and indecent exposure. Indecent exposure is defined as the unlawful exposure of sexual organs. Exposing or displaying sexual organs in public, or even on some private premises, is a violation of Florida law and is considered a first-degree misdemeanor. However, multiple offenses of indecent exposure can result in felony charges. The only exceptions to this law are mothers who are breastfeeding and individuals who are naked in specific places set aside for that purpose. Think of a locker room or changing area in a club or gym.
Lewd or lascivious offenses are sexual offenses committed in the presence of a minor. Lewd or lascivious exhibition is the exposure of sexual organs, masturbation, or an intentional sexual act in view of those under the age of 16. Since this form of exposure takes place in front of a minor, it is considered a second-degree felony charge, and the penalties can be severe.
Penalties for Public Sexual Indecency
The consequences can be severe for those found guilty of public sexual indecency, especially if minors are involved. Depending on the nature of the crime, a conviction may result in prison time and significant fines.
Indecent Exposure
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
Lewd or Lascivious Exhibition
- Up to 15 years in prison
- Fines up to $10,000
In addition to time behind bars and fines, a conviction can also result in probation, mandatory counseling sessions, and having to register as a sex offender. These penalties can significantly impact an individual’s ability to retain employment (especially in certain fields), limit their housing opportunities, and tarnish their reputation.
What Activities Could Result in Exposure Charges?
Exposing sexual organs in public is not the only way to end up with indecent exposure charges. Many people are shocked at the types of behaviors that can land them in hot water with the authorities. Even activities that go on behind closed doors, but can be viewed through open windows, may result in serious charges.
In Florida, individuals could face charges of indecent exposure if they are caught engaging in the following:
Exposing sexual organs in public
Exposing sexual organs to minors
Urinating in public
Skinny dipping
Engaging in sexual behaviors in public
- Intercourse
- Oral sex
Engaging in sexual activities on private property, but in public view of others (open window or door)
Mooning someone
Streaking
While some of these activities seem “all in good fun,” that isn’t the way the law perceives them. They are viewed as serious criminal offenses that may carry significant criminal penalties for those convicted.
Defenses for Public Sexual Indecency
There is no cookie-cutter defense tactic for public sexual indecency. The circumstances of the incident and the evidence provided dictate how an experienced attorney will approach the defense strategy. There may be a variety of different avenues to pursue that can prove an individual’s innocence or to demonstrate that there was no lewd or vulgar intention behind the act itself. In some cases, a defense attorney may be able to argue that the exposure was unintentional, the defendant was not aware that they were visible to the public, or that there is limited evidence to convict.
A public sexual indecency charge may seem like a minor offense, but the repercussions of a conviction can be long-standing. One night of “harmless” fun can turn into a lifetime of struggling to find employment, being barred from certain areas, and having trouble securing housing. Charges of this nature can haunt you for years. Imagine the embarrassment of telling a new significant other about this charge on your record.
Don’t take a chance. Get in touch with an experienced defense attorney who has the resources to protect your rights and work towards a favorable outcome for your situation. At The Morris Firm, we work diligently to build a solid defense based on the circumstances of your unique situation.
Contact an Experienced Pensacola Defense Attorney Today
Too often, individuals view public indecency charges are “minor.” However, the repercussions for these crimes are not minor. They can end up significantly impacting how you live your life. You deserve a defense team that takes these charges seriously and will work hard towards achieving a positive outcome for your situation.
If you are facing allegations of public sexual indecency, contact the experienced Pensacola defense team at The Morris Firm for help. We can review your case and provide you with the advice, guidance, and support you need during this confusing and challenging time. Don’t wait. Contact us today by calling (850) 503-2626, and let’s set up your initial case evaluation.
