Breckenridge Indecent Exposure Defense Attorneys
Indecent Exposure Lawyers in Breckenridge Aggressively Defend Your Freedom
A conviction for indecent exposure will have a drastic impact on your life. If you're facing any sex offense charges in Colorado, contact the experienced Breckenridge criminal defense attorneys at Whitaker & Penix, LLC, right away.
Finding a lawyer with proficiency in the local court system can make a huge difference in the outcome of your case. Whitaker & Penix, LLC, proudly holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, and Kylie Whitaker has been recognized by Super Lawyers for significant professional achievement and outstanding peer reviews. Call (970) 368-0602 to schedule a FREE consultation today.
Breckenridge Penalties for Indecent Exposure
Indecent exposure is defined by specific criteria under Colorado state law. To be charged with this offense, an individual must knowingly expose their genitals to another person in a situation that is likely to cause alarm or offense. This can include acts such as flashing or public masturbation. The intent to cause alarm or the recklessness of the act plays a crucial role in how the case is evaluated.
The legal statutes covering indecent exposure are primarily found in the Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) 18-7-302, which outlines the conduct that constitutes indecent exposure. It's important to note that conviction for a repeated offense escalates the severity of punishment.
A first offense is generally treated as a Class 1 misdemeanor, which can result in penalties such as fines, probation, and possible jail time. But if the defendant has previous convictions for the same offense, or if the indecent act was performed in the presence of a minor, the charges may be escalated to a Class 6 felony, and conviction carries up to 18 months in prison and fines up to $100,000. There is also a mandatory parole period of one year.
A felony conviction for indecent exposure in Colorado has grave implications that extend beyond the legal penalties. Convicted Colorado felons face consequences that may include the loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to vote and the right to own firearms. Conviction can also negatively impact employment opportunities, limit housing options, and restrict access to a professional license.
Conviction for Indecent Exposure and Sex Offender Registry in Colorado
In Colorado, individuals convicted of indecent exposure may be required to register as sex offenders, depending on the specific circumstances of their case. The requirement typically applies when the offense involves a minor or if the individual has a prior history of similar offenses.
Being listed on the sex offender registry has profound implications. Registrants are required to provide personal information that is open to the public, including their name, address, and photograph. Every time a sex offender registrant moves, they are required to re-register this information. The public nature of the registry often leads to social stigma and ostracization from the community.
Registrants often face ongoing challenges, such as difficulty securing employment, as employers may be hesitant to hire individuals with a sex offense record. Housing options can likewise be severely limited due to community safety concerns and residency restrictions that prevent living near schools or parks. Educational opportunities may also be restricted.
Legal Defenses Against Indecent Exposure Charges
Your Summit County criminal defense lawyer plays a pivotal role in building a strong defense against indecent exposure charges. The experienced trial lawyers at Whitaker & Penix, LLC, may scrutinize the details of the accusation, looking for inconsistencies or violations of your rights. We may challenge the evidence based on how it was obtained or argue that the actions did not meet the legal standard for indecent exposure.
Our skilled Breckenridge sex crime defense attorneys may also pursue every legal avenue to reduce or dismiss the charges. For example, we may argue that the exposure was accidental, not intended to cause alarm or injury, or that the defendant's actions are protected under the First Amendment.
Some effective legal defenses against indecent exposure charges include:
- There was no criminal intent.
- Witnesses against you are unreliable.
- It was a case of mistaken identity.
- You were a victim of police misconduct.
- The prosecution failed to provide enough evidence to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
What to Do If You've Been Charged with Indecent Exposure in Breckenridge
If you've been charged with indecent exposure, your first action should be to refrain from discussing your case with anyone other than your lawyer, as anything you say can be used against you in court. Contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible is crucial. Your lawyer will guide you through the legal process, help you understand the charges, and formulate a defense strategy.
Follow all court orders and appear for all scheduled court dates. Whenever you appear before a judge, make sure to show up on time, dress appropriately, and remain respectful at all times.
Our Attorneys Defend Against Breckenridge Indecent Exposure Charges
Remember: A charge is not a conviction. Also, a knowledgeable Summit County indecent exposure lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Whitaker & Penix, LLC, will fight for your freedom every step of the way. Everybody is entitled to a strong legal defense — call (970) 368-0602 to learn more today.