Indecent Exposure Overview

Indecent exposure is the deliberate exposure in public or in view of the general public by a person of a portion or portions of their body in circumstances where the exposure is contrary to local moral or other standards of appropriate behavior. The term indecent exposure is a legal expression. Social and community attitudes to the exposing of various body parts and laws covering what is referred to as indecent exposure vary significantly in different countries. It ranges from outright prohibition to prohibition of exposure of certain body parts, such as the genital area, buttocks or breasts.

Exposing one's genitals means just that to show your bare genitals. However, flashing one's underwear, no matter how revealing or skimpy, is usually not considered indecent exposure for purposes of most states' laws. While showing a bare female breast could result in a criminal charge, most states carve out an exception for women breastfeeding their babies.

So what about urinating in public? If one is urinating behind a dumpster, for example, outside direct view of the public especially at night, that person likely would have a good argument that the act was not done with the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification, or offending another. But, whether or not public urination falls within the definition of indecent exposure will rely heavily on the way a state's statutes are written.

Because of its depiction in the media, indecent exposure may appear to be a frivolous crime. However, indecent exposure charges can result in serious ramifications, such as prison time and sex offender registration. Given the severity of the penalties, it's in your best interests to talk to an experienced sex crime lawyer if you're facing indecent exposure charges.