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Indecent Exposure Defense Attorney

Legal Defense for Charges Under C.R.S. 18-7-302

Accused of Indecent Exposure in Colorado? You Need a Serious Defense

An indecent exposure charge in Colorado may seem minor at first glance—but it carries serious and lasting consequences, including potential jail time, mandatory sex offender registration, and damage to your reputation that can follow you for life.

At The Lawrence Law Firm, we understand how devastating these allegations can be. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, we are here to provide aggressive, strategic, and discreet legal representation.

Our indecent exposure defense attorney defend clients throughout Aurora, Denver, Arapahoe County, Adams County, Douglas County, and across the Denver Metro Area.

What Is Indecent Exposure Under Colorado Law?

According to Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-7-302, a person commits indecent exposure if they:

  • Knowingly expose their genitals to the view of another person;

  • In a manner likely to cause alarm;

  • With the intent to arouse or satisfy the sexual desire of any person (including themselves or the alleged victim).

This statute also applies to masturbation in public, even if no one physically sees the act but it occurs in a place where exposure was likely.

Examples of Conduct That Can Lead to Indecent Exposure Charges

Charges under C.R.S. 18-7-302 can stem from a wide range of allegations, including:

  • Public urination where genitals are exposed and visible to others

  • Flashing or exposing oneself to strangers

  • Engaging in sexual activity in a vehicle or public park

  • Masturbating in a semi-private area such as a hotel window or vehicle

In some cases, these situations involve misunderstandings or are exaggerated. In others, the conduct may have been accidental, non-sexual, or falsely reported.

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Being accused of indecent exposure is serious and can lead to lasting damage to your record and reputation. Speak with an experienced indecent exposure defense attorney today to protect your rights and your future.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony Indecent Exposure in Colorado

First Offense – Class 1 Misdemeanor

Most first-time indecent exposure charges are filed as Class 1 misdemeanors, punishable by:

  • Up to 364 days in jail

  • Fines up to $1,000

  • Sex offender registration

  • Sex offense-specific probation and treatment

  • Potential impact on employment, housing, and immigration status

Subsequent Offenses – Class 6 Felony

If the defendant has previous convictions for indecent exposure or public indecency, the new charge may be escalated to a Class 6 felony, which carries:

  • 1 to 1.5 years in prison

  • Fines up to $100,000

  • Mandatory parole and lifetime sex offender registration

  • Permanent felony record

The decision to file a felony often depends on your criminal history—even if the new incident is minor in nature.

Mandatory Sex Offender Registration

One of the most severe consequences of an indecent exposure conviction is the requirement to register as a sex offender under the Colorado Sex Offender Registration Act (C.R.S. 16-22-101).

This includes:

  • Lifetime or long-term registration (5–20 years depending on the case)

  • Community notification in certain circumstances

  • Severe restrictions on where you can live or work

  • Required participation in sex offender treatment

  • Public visibility on Colorado’s online registry

Even misdemeanor indecent exposure can result in sex offender registration, making it crucial to hire an indecent exposure defense attorney.

Indecent Exposure vs. Public Indecency (C.R.S. 18-7-301)

It’s important to understand the difference between indecent exposure and public indecency, which is often considered a lesser offense.

Public Indecency (18-7-301)Indecent Exposure (18-7-302)
May involve consensual or non-sexual actsRequires sexual intent (arousal/gratification)
Often charged as Class 1 or 2 misdemeanorCan be misdemeanor or felony
May not require registrationOften triggers mandatory sex offender registration

Sometimes, a good defense strategy involves negotiating a reduction from indecent exposure to public indecency, which may spare the defendant from registration and harsher penalties.

Defending Against Indecent Exposure Charges

Every case is unique. Our sex crimes defense attorney carefully evaluates the facts, the surrounding circumstances, and the motivations of witnesses to build a strong defense. Some of the most common legal defenses include:

1. No Sexual Intent

Intent is a required element under C.R.S. 18-7-302. If the act was not done for sexual gratification (e.g., public urination due to medical need or intoxication), it may not meet the statute’s definition.

2. Mistaken Identity

Especially in cases involving anonymous reports or incidents in crowded areas, eyewitness misidentification is a real concern. Surveillance video or alibi evidence can be used to refute the claim.

3. No Likelihood of Public Viewing

If the conduct occurred in a private space with no realistic expectation of being seen by others, this can undermine the prosecution’s case. For example, exposure in a fenced backyard may not qualify as “public.”

4. False Allegations

Some claims of indecent exposure are exaggerated or entirely fabricated. We investigate the motive behind the accusation and any inconsistencies in the accuser’s statement.

5. Mental Health or Intoxication Issues

In certain cases, psychological or medical evaluations may be used to explain behavior and help secure treatment-based alternatives to conviction or incarceration.

What to Expect in the Legal Process

If you’ve been accused of indecent exposure, the case will likely follow this general path:

  1. Investigation or Arrest

    • You may be contacted by police or arrested based on a witness statement.

    • Do not speak to police without a lawyer present.

  2. First Court Appearance / Arraignment

    • You’ll be formally advised of the charge(s).

    • Bond conditions and no-contact orders may be imposed.

  3. Pretrial Hearings

    • Your attorney may file motions to dismiss, suppress evidence, or challenge the sufficiency of the charge.

  4. Plea Negotiation or Trial

    • Some cases may be resolved through a plea agreement, often reducing charges to avoid registration.

    • Others go to trial, where the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

  5. Sentencing

    • If convicted, the judge may impose jail time, probation, or sex offender registration depending on the facts and classification.

Why Choose The Lawrence Law Firm for Your Defense

When your future is at stake, you need a law firm that understands both the legal strategies and the social impact of a sex-related accusation.

We offer:

  • Experienced defense against misdemeanor and felony sex offenses

  • Discreet, nonjudgmental representation

  • Trial readiness with a proven track record in court

  • Strategic negotiation to minimize exposure and avoid registration when possible

  • Free consultations and flexible scheduling

We are committed to preserving your rights, protecting your freedom, and restoring your peace of mind.

Counties We Serve

At The Lawrence Law Firm, we provide skilled defense for individuals charged with indecent exposure across Colorado. Every county has its own court procedures and prosecutors, which makes local experience vital. Our experienced indecent exposure defense attorney represents clients in:

  • Arapahoe County – Cases heard at the Arapahoe County Justice Center in Centennial.

  • Adams County – Representation for cases filed at the Adams County Justice Center in Brighton.

  • Denver County – Defense at the Lindsey-Flanigan Courthouse in downtown Denver.

  • Douglas County – Cases handled at the Douglas County Justice Center in Castle Rock.

  • Jefferson County – Representation at the Jefferson County Courts in Golden.

Wherever your case is filed, our indecent exposure defense attorney is prepared to fight for your rights, protect your future, and guide you through the complexities of the Colorado legal system.

Speak with an Aurora Indecent Exposure Lawyer Today

If you’ve been accused or charged with indecent exposure in Aurora or the Denver Metro Area, don’t wait to get help. The sooner you act, the more options you may have to fight the charge, avoid registration, and protect your record.

Call The Lawrence Law Firm today or schedule a free, confidential consultation. We serve clients across Arapahoe, Adams, Douglas, and Denver Counties, and we’re ready to fight for you.

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Areas of Practice

Service Areas

  • Denver County
  • Arapahoe County
  • Adams County
  • Douglas County
  • Jefferson County

Speak with Indecent Exposure Defense Attorney Today

Contact Information

Address

2821 S. Parker Rd. Suite 865 Aurora, CO 80014

Contact

lain@coloradodefenders.com Ph: 720-369-4929

Hours

Monday-Friday: 8 am - 6 pm Weekends and Afterhours By Appointment