Getting charged with indecent exposure can be shocking—especially if it stems from a moment you believed was entirely innocent or accidental. California Penal Code §314 outlines indecent exposure as willfully exposing one’s private parts in public or in the presence of someone who might be offended.
But here’s the truth: not everyone charged with this crime had criminal intent. In fact, one of the most common ways people end up facing this charge is through misunderstandings or unintended situations.
The Most Common Way People Are Unintentionally Charged
You might be surprised to learn how easily a person can be accused of indecent exposure:
- Changing clothes in a parked car without realizing someone is watching
- Urinating outdoors in a secluded area, unaware of a passerby
- Being intoxicated and unaware of behavior in a public setting
- A wardrobe malfunction or brief nudity during a dare or prank
What separates these situations from true criminal acts is intent. But unfortunately, intent can be difficult to prove, and prosecutors don’t always give the benefit of the doubt.
What Are Your Legal Defenses?
If you’ve been accused or charged with indecent exposure, do not panic—you have options. A skilled Sex Crimes Defense Attorney in Orange County can evaluate the specifics of your case and apply one or more of the following defenses:
- Lack of Intent: If your exposure was accidental, involuntary, or occurred without willful intent to offend, that’s a strong foundation for a defense.
- False Accusation: These cases often stem from personal disputes or misidentifications. Eyewitness credibility can be challenged.
- Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the act was willful and lewd. Surveillance footage or the lack of corroborating evidence can work in your favor.
- Mental State Defense: In some rare cases, a medical or psychological condition can explain unusual behavior without criminal culpability.
What Happens If It Was Truly Harmless?
Not every case of alleged indecent exposure should lead to a criminal conviction—especially when it’s a misunderstanding or honest mistake. A proactive defense strategy can lead to:
- Charges being dismissed or reduced
- Diversion programs or alternative sentencing
- Avoiding mandatory sex offender registration
At Simmons & Wagner, we know the devastating personal and professional impact a sex crime charge can carry—even when the underlying incident was far from criminal. As former Orange County District Attorneys, we understand how these cases are prosecuted and, more importantly, how to fight them.
Why Hire Simmons & Wagner?
If you’ve been charged with indecent exposure, don’t try to explain your way out of it alone. One wrong statement can be used against you. Let the experienced team at Simmons & Wagner, your trusted Sex Crimes Defense Attorney in Orange County, step in and protect your future.
We bring decades of courtroom experience, strategic negotiation, and a deep understanding of how the prosecution operates. Our goal is to get the charges dropped, reduced, or resolved in a way that preserves your freedom and reputation.
Charged with indecent exposure? Don’t wait. Contact Simmons & Wagner today for a confidential consultation and start building your defense the right way.