What is the crime of lewd conduct in California?
In California, the crime of lewd conduct is defined under Penal Code 647(a) as engaging in any touching of the genitalia or anus of oneself or another person with the intent to sexually gratify oneself or another person. The touching must also be done in a public place or in the presence of someone else who could be offended by the conduct.
It’s important to note that the crime of lewd conduct is considered a sex crime, and individuals convicted of this crime can be required to register as a sex offender under Penal Code 290. Additionally, a conviction for lewd conduct can result in significant consequences, including time in jail or prison, fines, and a criminal record that can affect future employment and other aspects of life.
It’s recommended that individuals who have been charged with lewd conduct speak with a criminal defense attorney to understand their rights and options, as well as the potential consequences of a conviction.
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What are some examples of the crime of lewd act in California?
Examples of the crime of lewd conduct in California include:
Masturbating in a public park
Touching oneself sexually in front of others on a public beach
Engaging in sexual touching with another person in a public bathroom
Exposing one’s genitals in a public place with the intent to sexually gratify oneself or another person
Engaging in sexual touching with another person in a crowded movie theater
It’s important to note that in order for the conduct to be considered a crime under Penal Code 647(a), it must take place in a public place or in the presence of someone else who could be offended by the conduct, and it must be done with the intent to sexually gratify oneself or another person. Additionally, the specific circumstances of each case can affect the classification and severity of the crime, and individuals charged with lewd conduct should consult with a criminal defense attorney to understand their rights and options.
What are the penalties for the crime of lewd act in California?
The penalties for the crime of lewd conduct in California can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case, including the age of the victim and the defendant’s criminal history. However, in general, lewd conduct is considered a misdemeanor offense under Penal Code 647(a).
If convicted of a first-time lewd conduct offense, an individual could face the following penalties:
Up to 6 months in county jail
A fine of up to $1,000
Informal probation for up to 3 years
Possible lifetime sex offender registration under Penal Code 290
It’s important to note that the penalties for lewd conduct can be more severe if the victim was a minor, or if the defendant has prior convictions for sex crimes. In such cases, the defendant may face more serious charges and more severe penalties, including imprisonment in state prison and additional fines.
Lewd acts, indecent exposure, pornography, and exposing the genitals in a public place are considered sex crimes. You need the help of an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in the area of Sex Crimes if you have been charged with Lewd Conduct upon a Child. These are very serious charges which unfortunately are not taken very seriously by those who are first contacted by Los Angeles Detectives. As a result, often, the person under investigation freely speaks with the detectives not knowing of the adverse consequences and the purpose of the interviews. Sure enough, the person is arrested and held in custody and often a very high bail amount is set that prevents the suspect’s release.
It is almost like suicide to try to handle a lewd conduct investigation or charge by yourself. You must immediately invoke your constitutional right to remain silent if you are contacted by a detective. Even if someone else such as a relative, a child or anyone calls you on the phone and tries to bring up allegaitons of child abuse, do not speak with that person. Chances are the conversaiton is set up by the detectives and is being recorded.
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By simply calling an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles, you could indeed save your own life. Don’t fall for tricks used by police officers or detectives to get you to admit that you touched a minor illegally. Don’t submit to lie detector tests thinking that you are innocent and you will for sure pass the test. These are common mistakes made by those who come to our office and they have ended up being arrested.
Call us for a free consultation and let us deal with the detectives. We are experienced in the filed of sexual assault investigation and defense work. Don’t try to do it yourself. You will regret it for ever.
Criminal prosecution can affect your health, freedom, employment, and social life. You need help and you need the best criminal defense you can get. At the Law Offices of Tony M. Seyfi, with the state of the art computerized legal research tools and forensic techniques, we will focus on identifying the defenses you may have and will develop numerous challenges to any crime possible.
Our goal is victory for our clients and to keep them from going to jail, and we are confident of our defense strategies. If you would like to discuss your case, call us today for a FREE CONSULTATION and case analysis.
