St. Louis Indecent Exposure Attorney

Arrested for Indecent Exposure in Missouri? Call Us Now at (314) 334-3807

At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we represent individuals facing serious sex crime charges throughout Missouri, including charges for indecent exposure. We know these charges are serious, and we know that if you stand accused, proven representation is critical. It's why we advise everyone to contact us as soon as possible after being contacted by law enforcement.

What is Indecent Exposure?

A defendant can only be convicted of indecent exposure if the prosecutor can prove the following four elements:

• There was actual exposure of the individual's "private body parts." - This refers to body parts such as male and female genitals, and female breasts.
• The exposure under question must have been done willfully and with intent. - This means that the accidental exposure of private body parts, such as an unintentional wardrobe malfunction, would not be considered a legal offense and cannot be prosecuted.
• The exposure must have occurred in a public place in order for it to be punishable by the law. - This includes retail establishments and public recreational areas but excludes private homes and bedrooms. In Missouri, the definition of a "public place" is broad and open to interpretation by the presiding judge or jury.
• The exposure must have taken place in the presence of another person. - There must have been an onlooker within sight when the exposure took place. In Missouri, indecent exposure with a child present is taken more seriously than if the only witnesses were adults.

The severity of the charge could differ from case-to-case. For example, a public urination charge may not be dealt with as seriously as a public indecency for the purpose of solicitation.

What are the Penalties for Indecent Exposure in Missouri?

Although it is not an offense warranting enrollment in the state's sex offender registry, indecent exposure can be categorized as a 2^nd degree misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $1,000.

Is Indecent Exposure a Felony in St. Louis, MO?

Indecent exposure is considered a criminal offense in St. Louis, MO and it can be either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the specific circumstances of the case.

However, if the offender has prior convictions for indecent exposure or other similar offenses, or if the indecent exposure was committed in the presence of a child under the age of 17, it can be considered a Class D felony, punishable by up to four years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

It's important to note that laws and penalties can vary by state and can change over time, so it's always best to consult with a criminal defense attorney in your area for specific legal advice.

Contact The Hammer Law Firm for a Free Consultation

Individuals who've been accused of indecent exposure in the state of Missouri can find the aggressive criminal defense team they need at The Hammer Law Firm, LLC. Backed by years of legal experience and a number of past successful cases, we are more than prepared to help you fight the charges that have been made against you.

The first consultation with our firm is provided completely free of charge or obligation, so don't wait to contact us today at (314) 334-3807.