Are you being charged with lewd conduct in San Diego, CA? If you find yourself in this situation, it’s critical to reach out to a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
At Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers, our legal team brings more than 14 years of combined experience to every case. We have the knowledge and the resources to handle a wide range of sex crime defenses. Contact our law office at (619) 357-4977 to schedule a free consultation with a San Diego lewd conduct attorney.
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Why Choose Blair Defense to Help Me if I’m Arrested for Lewd Conduct in San Diego, CA?
Facing a lewd conduct charge in San Diego, California, means that so many aspects of your life are at risk. It’s a time when having skilled representation truly matters. Blair Defense takes on these difficult cases with skill and experience.
Some of the best reasons to turn to our San Diego criminal defense lawyers in this time of need include:
- Over a decade of experience defending clients in California
- Recognition from Super Lawyers and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- More than 100 five-star reviews on Google
Trying to fight a lewd conduct accusation isn’t easy. With the right lawyer, though, it becomes possible.
Contact our law office to schedule a free consultation with a San Diego sex crimes attorney.
An Overview of Lewd Conduct in California
Lewd conduct in California is defined as willfully touching your own or another person’s genitals, buttocks, or a woman’s breast, specifically with the intent to satisfy sexual desire, arouse anyone involved, or offend or annoy someone else.
To be a crime, it must occur in some place that’s public, open to the public, or in a spot that’s easily visible by the general public. Even supposedly private locations, like homes, hotel rooms, or businesses after hours, might fall under “public view” if someone outside could realistically see inside. To be convicted, it must be proven that you knew or should’ve known someone could see you.
What Are the Penalties for Lewd Conduct in San Diego, California?
The exact penalties for lewd conduct in San Diego depend on the facts of your case and whether you have previous convictions, but understanding what the court can do is important for anyone facing this charge.
Misdemeanor
Lewd conduct is usually charged as a misdemeanor. If convicted, you could face up to six months in the county jail and up to a $1,000 fine. However, many people avoid jail completely and instead receive summary probation, which may come with court-ordered counseling, required AIDS testing, mandatory stay-away orders from certain places or people, and additional fines.
Sex Offender Registration
While a lewd conduct conviction alone does not require sex offender registration in California, prosecutors sometimes add extra charges, such as indecent exposure, that do carry this requirement. If you’re dealing with a charge like this, seeking experienced legal assistance should be done right away.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Arrested for Lewd Conduct?
If you’re facing a lewd conduct charge in California, it’s natural to feel anxious and confused, but several strong legal defenses may apply to your case. Some common defenses your lawyer might raise include:
No Lewd Act Occurred
Sometimes, people get arrested based on misunderstandings or overreactions. If no actual touching or indecent act took place, or there’s no solid evidence you did something sexual, your lawyer can challenge whether the elements of the charge are actually met.
No Sexual Intent
Lewd conduct laws require the prosecution to prove there was an intention to arouse, gratify, offend, or annoy. If you can show your actions were misinterpreted or innocent — for example, a medical necessity or personal adjustment — having a lack of sexual purpose can be used as a real defense.
Not in a Public Place or Not Exposed to Public View
For a conviction, the act must occur in a public location or be exposed to public sight. You shouldn’t be convicted if the alleged conduct occurred in a private setting and was not visible to others.
Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after facing charges can be your best chance at beating a lewd conduct charge.
Contact Our San Diego Lewd Conduct Lawyers for a Free Case Evaluation
Being accused of lewd conduct can be a disheartening experience, but you don’t have to face the legal ramifications, uncertainty, or court proceedings by yourself. Your rights matter; working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you walk away without a criminal record. Don’t wait to reach out.
Call Blair Defense to schedule a free consultation with a San Diego lewd conduct attorney.