Indecent Exposure and Public Indecency criminal charges have 4 key differences important to your Weld County court case. These terms are often thought of as very similar, but they are totally different criminal charges and convictions which will result in very different sentences. How to hire the best criminal attorney is something important to know in order to get you the best possible result in court. Below we will explore the differences between Indecent Exposure and Public Indecency charges. Call our defense lawyers to learn if they are the best lawyer for you.
#1 How are the Definitions of Indecent Exposure C.R.S. 18-7-302 and Public Indecency, C.R.S. 18-7-301, Different in Greeley Colorado?
In Greeley Colorado, Indecent Exposure – C.R.S. 18-7-302 – is defined as:
The definition of Public Indecency – C.R.S. 18-7-301 – in Greeley is:
While the definitions of Public Indecency and Indecent Exposure sound similar, the exposure of the genitals is what separates the two, and makes Indecent Exposure treated more seriously.
#2 If Convicted of Indecent Exposure or Public Indecency, What is the Different Sentence You’ll Face?
If convicted of Indecent Exposure or Public Indecency, the consequences are very different and can have very different lasting affects on your life. Indecent Exposure is a class 1 misdemeanor that requires up to an 18 month sentence in Weld County Jail. If this is a subsequent conviction of Indecent Exposure, it could be charged as a class 6 felony. If you are convicted of Indecent Exposure (even if it is your first offense), you are also required to register as a Sex Offender. However, a Public Indecency conviction is a class 1 petty offense, and you could only face up to 6 months in the Weld County Jail and a fine of up to $500.
#3 Difference: Do You Need to Register as a Sex Offender if Convicted of Indecent Exposure or Public Indecency?
On your first conviction of Indecent Exposure, you will be required to register as a sex offender. A Public Indecency conviction does not require you to register as a Sex Offender, however if it is your second or subsequent conviction, you would be required to register as a Sex Offender.
#4 Difference: Sentences for Two or More Convictions in Charges Indecent Exposure and Public Indecency
A second or subsequent conviction of Indecent Exposure it is a class 6 felony, and results in 1 year to 18 months in the Colorado Department of Corrections, up to $1,000 in fines, registration as a Sex Offender and Sex Offender Treatment. With a second or subsequent conviction of Public Indecency, it is a class 1 misdemeanor, and you’ll be facing a fine between $500 – $5,000, between 6 – 18 months in jail and the need to register as a Sex Offender. Public Indecency remains much less serious.
It is important to know the criminal charges that you face and hire an attorney who has experience in navigating the Weld County Court system. The consequences and challenges that arise in a conviction can have lasting effect your personal life, career, and even your housing.
If you or a loved one are facing an Indecent Exposure or Public Indecency charge in Greeley, Colorado, be smart and exercise your right to remain silent. Call our experienced and skilled defense attorneys at 970-616-6009 to meet in the Weld County and Greeley area. Together, we can protect your future.
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