{"id":294,"date":"2026-10-12T23:16:12","date_gmt":"2026-10-12T23:16:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/35-229-99-24.nip.io\/?page_id=294"},"modified":"2026-10-12T23:30:52","modified_gmt":"2026-10-12T23:30:52","slug":"dallas-sex-crimes-lawyer","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/dallas-sex-crimes-lawyer\/","title":{"rendered":"Dallas Sex Crimes Lawyer for Indecency Charges"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-secondary-background-color has-background-dim-60 has-background-dim\"><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background\" alt=\"Dallas Sex Crimes Lawyer for Indecency Charges. a realistic, non-graphic photo of the setting of dallas sex crimes indecency charges: the place and the objects involved, no injured people, no medical equipment, no wheelchairs or walkers\" src=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/dallas-sex-crimes-lawyer-for-indecency-charges-a-realistic-n-photo.jpg\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Dallas Sex Crimes Lawyer for Indecency Charges<\/h1><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+19724241902\">Schedule a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">Schedule a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By Heather Barbieri \u00b7 Published October 11, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>If you need a Dallas sex crimes lawyer for a public lewdness or indecent exposure charge, start with one question: what must the State prove? <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.07\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07<\/a> defines public lewdness as knowingly engaging in an act of sexual intercourse, deviate sexual intercourse or sexual contact in a public place or, if not in a public place, being reckless about whether another person is present who will be offended or alarmed by the act. This page explains those rules, what a charge can affect, and how a defense review works in Dallas County and beyond.<\/p>\n<h2>Who This Page Is For and What a Dallas Indecency Charge Means<\/h2>\n<p>This page is for adults in Dallas County who were arrested, cited, or are under investigation for public lewdness or indecent exposure.<\/p>\n<p>These are sex-related offenses under Texas law. They are criminal cases that move through court. A charge is an accusation, not a finding of guilt, and every case turns on its own facts.<\/p>\n<p>People facing these charges often worry about three things. They ask whether the charge is a felony or a misdemeanor. They wonder whether it will show up on a background check. They fear losing a job, a license, or a place at school.<\/p>\n<p>Early decisions matter. A statement to police, a missed court date, or a job disclosure made without advice can change the picture before the case even begins.<\/p>\n<p>Barbieri Law Firm is based in Frisco, Texas. We represent clients in Dallas County, Collin County, and across Texas.<\/p>\n<h2>Public Lewdness vs. Indecent Exposure: What the State Must Prove<\/h2>\n<p>Public lewdness covers sexual conduct in a public place. Indecent exposure covers showing certain body parts with intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Public lewdness<\/strong> (<a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.07\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07<\/a>): the person knowingly engages in sexual intercourse, deviate sexual intercourse, or sexual contact in a public place. If not in a public place, the person must be reckless about whether another person is present who will be offended or alarmed.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Indecent exposure<\/strong> (<a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.08\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.08<\/a>): the person exposes the anus or any part of the genitals with intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire. The person must also be reckless about whether another person is present who will be offended or alarmed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The main difference is focus. Public lewdness turns on the sexual act and where it happened. Indecent exposure turns heavily on intent, which makes evidence of the person&#8217;s purpose central. Where the alleged conduct took place is often an important part of the facts we review with you.<\/p>\n<p>Penalty ranges depend on the class of offense:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Public lewdness is a Class A misdemeanor, except a third-degree felony if the person was civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.<\/li>\n<li>Indecent exposure is a Class B misdemeanor, a Class A misdemeanor after one prior conviction under that section, and a state jail felony after two or more prior convictions.<\/li>\n<li>A Class A misdemeanor carries a fine up to $4,000, jail up to one year, or both (<a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.12.htm#12.21\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 12.21<\/a>).<\/li>\n<li>A state jail felony carries 180 days to two years in a state jail and a fine up to $10,000 (<a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.12.htm#12.35\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 12.35<\/a>).<\/li>\n<li>A court may punish a state jail felony with Class A misdemeanor confinement if it makes the findings required by <a href=\"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.12.htm#12.44\">Texas Penal Code \u00a7 12.44<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Each element is a separate question. We review each one against the evidence.<\/p>\n<h2>How a Charge Can Affect Your Job, License, and Record<\/h2>\n<p>A charge can reach your job, license, and record before a court decides anything. The effects depend on the exact offense and the outcome.<\/p>\n<p>Court records are public, and background checks often search them. Employers and licensing boards may also ask about arrests or charges on applications, so the wording of each question matters. Four terms matter, and each means something different:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Arrest or charge:<\/strong> an open accusation while the case moves forward.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dismissal:<\/strong> the case ends without a conviction, though it may still appear in records.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Deferred outcome:<\/strong> the case follows terms the court sets, and the result depends on those terms.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Conviction:<\/strong> a final finding of guilt, which sets the penalty range discussed above.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you have questions about sex offender registration, we can go over them with you in light of your specific charge. We don&#8217;t assume registration applies, and we don&#8217;t assume it doesn&#8217;t.<\/p>\n<p>Bring any employer, school, or licensing letters to your first meeting. That lets us review timing and reporting questions early.<\/p>\n<h2>What Our Defense Review Covers<\/h2>\n<p>Our defense review tests the paperwork, the location, the video, and the State&#8217;s proof of intent or recklessness.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Charging papers and police report:<\/strong> checked against the exact statute charged, word by word.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The location:<\/strong> lighting, distance, visibility, and whether anyone could actually have seen the conduct.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Video and timeline:<\/strong> body-camera, dash-camera, and surveillance footage, plus times and places.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Witnesses and identification:<\/strong> who saw what, from where, and how certain they were. Research on wrongful convictions lists <a href=\"https:\/\/www.law.umich.edu\/special\/exoneration\/Pages\/about.aspx\">false accusations and mistaken identification<\/a> among recurring causes, so we test each identification closely.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Intent and recklessness:<\/strong> what the evidence shows about the person&#8217;s purpose and awareness of others nearby.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>After the review, we explain your options in plain terms, including possible pretrial steps. No lawyer can ensure a particular outcome, and we won&#8217;t predict one. What we can do is show you what the evidence supports and where it falls short.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/hands-in-handcuffs-rest-beside-case-photos-spread-across-a-t-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Hands in handcuffs rest beside case photos spread across a table, suggesting a criminal investigation.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>What to Expect: From First Call to Resolution<\/h2>\n<p>The process runs in four stages: a consultation, document gathering, evidence review, and court steps.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Free initial consultation.<\/strong> We review the charge, your timeline, and your concerns about work or licensing.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Document gathering.<\/strong> You bring charging papers, bond or court paperwork, police reports, and any employer or licensing letters.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Evidence review.<\/strong> We go through the stop or contact, the video, the witness accounts, and the location, then explain your options.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Court steps.<\/strong> We handle court settings and talks with the prosecutor. You make the final decisions after we explain each one.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Timing varies by county court and case complexity. We explain the expected steps for your case rather than give a fixed schedule.<\/p>\n<h2>Why Barbieri Law Firm: Credentials and Scope<\/h2>\n<p>Barbieri Law Firm is an all-women criminal defense firm in Frisco. We serve clients who need a Dallas sex crimes lawyer in Dallas County, Collin County, and across Texas.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Heather Jean Barbieri, Board Certified, Criminal Law &#8212; Texas Board of Legal Specialization.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Our practice areas include sex crimes defense, aggravated sexual assault, child sex crimes, online sex crimes, aggravated assault, family violence, and theft defense for students and non-citizens. Our approach starts with the facts. We match the charge to the evidence first, then explain your options in plain language.<\/p>\n<p>We are based in Frisco and do not have a Dallas office. This page includes no case results and no client reviews, and we don&#8217;t use rankings or awards here.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions About Dallas Indecency Charges<\/h2>\n<p>These short answers cover the questions readers ask most often. Your case still needs a review of its own facts.<\/p><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Is public lewdness a felony or a misdemeanor in Texas?<\/summary><p>Public lewdness is a Class A misdemeanor under Texas law. It becomes a third-degree felony only if the person was civilly committed as a sexually violent predator.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Will I have to register as a sex offender?<\/summary><p>It depends on the exact offense, subsection, and conviction.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can a charge affect my job?<\/summary><p>It can, through background checks, public court records, and employer or licensing questions. Bring any related letters to your first meeting.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How much does a consultation cost?<\/summary><p>The initial consultation is free. We explain fee options during that meeting.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Should I talk to police before I speak with a lawyer?<\/summary><p>Getting advice first is wise. What you say at the scene can shape the case, so ask for a lawyer before you give a statement.<\/p><\/details><h2>Talk Through Your Charge With Our Team<\/h2>\n<p>If you were cited or arrested for indecent exposure or public lewdness in Dallas County, and a job or license now feels at risk, you don&#8217;t have to sort out the next steps alone. Call (972) 424-1902, request a free consultation, or send your case details through our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">contact form<\/a>. Bring your charging papers and any employer or licensing letters. No lawyer can ensure a particular outcome, but a review of the evidence can clarify your options.<\/p>\n<p>Attorney responsible for this site: Heather Jean Barbieri, Barbieri Law Firm, Frisco, Texas.<\/p>\n\n<\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>Barbieri Law Firm, 17 Cowboys Way, Suite 175, Frisco, TX 75034. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Results listed are not a guarantee or indication of future case results.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Ready to take the next step?<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+19724241902\">Schedule a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/contact\/\">Schedule a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/\">Online Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer | Collin County &amp; Texas<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/dallas-solicitation-defense-lawyer\/\">Dallas Solicitation Defense Lawyer<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/guides-will-i-lose-my-job-if-charged-with-a-sex-crime-texas\/\">Will I Lose My Job If I Am Charged With a Sex Crime in Texas?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/how-much-is-a-sex-crime-lawyer\/\">How much is a sex crime lawyer?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/indecency-with-a-child-defense-lawyer\/\">Indecency with a Child Defense Lawyer in Collin County, Texas<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/sex-crimes-lawyer-plano\/\">Sex Crimes Lawyer Plano<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dallas sex crimes lawyer guide to Texas public lewdness and indecent exposure charges, penalties, and the defense review. Call (972) 424-1902.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":19,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"{\"v\": 1, \"checked_at\": \"2026-10-11T01:38:40+00:00\", \"checked\": true, \"jurisdiction\": \"Texas\", \"claims\": [{\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.07\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07\", \"heading\": \"PUBLIC LEWDNESS\", \"support\": \"knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"Sec. 21.07. PUBLIC LEWDNESS. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place or, if not in a public place, the person is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the person's: (1) act of sexual intercourse; (2) act of deviate sexual intercourse; or (3) act of sexual contact. (b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"sentence\": \"Public lewdness covers sexual conduct in a public place.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.08\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.08\", \"heading\": \"INDECENT EXPOSURE\", \"support\": \"exposes his anus or any part of his genitals with intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 21.08. INDECENT EXPOSURE. (a) A person commits an offense if he exposes his anus or any part of his genitals with intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person, and he is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by his act. (b) An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor, except that the offense is: \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"Indecent exposure covers showing certain body parts with intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.07\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07\", \"heading\": \"PUBLIC LEWDNESS\", \"support\": \"knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"Sec. 21.07. PUBLIC LEWDNESS. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place or, if not in a public place, the person is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the person's: (1) act of sexual intercourse; (2) act of deviate sexual intercourse; or (3) act of sexual contact. (b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"sentence\": \"**Public lewdness** (Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07): the person knowingly engages in sexual intercourse, deviate sexual intercourse, or sexual contact in a public place.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.07\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07\", \"heading\": \"PUBLIC LEWDNESS\", \"support\": \"if not in a public place, the person is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the person's\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"Sec. 21.07. PUBLIC LEWDNESS. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place or, if not in a public place, the person is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the person's: (1) act of sexual intercourse; (2) act of deviate sexual intercourse; or (3) act of sexual contact. (b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"sentence\": \"If not in a public place, the person must be reckless about whether another person is present who will be offended or alarmed.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.08\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.08\", \"heading\": \"INDECENT EXPOSURE\", \"support\": \"exposes his anus or any part of his genitals with intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 21.08. INDECENT EXPOSURE. (a) A person commits an offense if he exposes his anus or any part of his genitals with intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person, and he is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by his act. (b) An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor, except that the offense is: \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"**Indecent exposure** (Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.08): the person exposes the anus or any part of the genitals with intent to arouse or gratify sexual desire.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.08\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.08\", \"heading\": \"INDECENT EXPOSURE\", \"support\": \"he is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by his act\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 21.08. INDECENT EXPOSURE. (a) A person commits an offense if he exposes his anus or any part of his genitals with intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person, and he is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by his act. (b) An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor, except that the offense is: (1) a Class A misdemeanor if it is shown on the trial of the offense that the defendant has been previously convicted one time of an offense under this section; \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"The person must also be reckless about whether another person is present who will be offended or alarmed.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.07\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07\", \"heading\": \"PUBLIC LEWDNESS\", \"support\": \"knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"Sec. 21.07. PUBLIC LEWDNESS. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place or, if not in a public place, the person is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the person's: (1) act of sexual intercourse; (2) act of deviate sexual intercourse; or (3) act of sexual contact. (b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"sentence\": \"Public lewdness turns on the sexual act and where it happened.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.08\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.08\", \"heading\": \"INDECENT EXPOSURE\", \"support\": \"with intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 21.08. INDECENT EXPOSURE. (a) A person commits an offense if he exposes his anus or any part of his genitals with intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person, and he is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by his act. (b) An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor, except that the offense is: (1) a Class A misdemeanor if it is shown on the trial of the offense that the defendant has been previously convicted one time of an offense under this section; \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"Indecent exposure turns heavily on intent, which makes evidence of the person's purpose central.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.07\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07\", \"heading\": \"PUBLIC LEWDNESS\", \"support\": \"An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"Sec. 21.07. PUBLIC LEWDNESS. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place or, if not in a public place, the person is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the person's: (1) act of sexual intercourse; (2) act of deviate sexual intercourse; or (3) act of sexual contact. (b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"sentence\": \"Public lewdness is a Class A misdemeanor, except a third-degree felony if the person was civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.08\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.08\", \"heading\": \"INDECENT EXPOSURE\", \"support\": \"An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor, except that the offense is: (1) a Class A misdemeanor if it is shown on the trial of the offense that the defendant has been previously convicted one time of an offense under this section; (2) a state jail felony if it is shown on the trial of the offense that the defendant has been previously convicted two or more times of an offense under this section\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 (b) An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor, except that the offense is: (1) a Class A misdemeanor if it is shown on the trial of the offense that the defendant has been previously convicted one time of an offense under this section; (2) a state jail felony if it is shown on the trial of the offense that the defendant has been previously convicted two or more times of an offense under this section; or (3) a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"sentence\": \"Indecent exposure is a Class B misdemeanor, a Class A misdemeanor after one prior conviction under that section, and a state jail felony after two or more prior convictions.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.12.htm#12.21\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 12.21\", \"heading\": \"CLASS A MISDEMEANOR\", \"support\": \"(1) a fine not to exceed $4,000; (2) confinement in jail for a term not to exceed one year; or (3) both such fine and confinement.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"Sec. 12.21. CLASS A MISDEMEANOR. An individual adjudged guilty of a Class A misdemeanor shall be punished by: (1) a fine not to exceed $4,000; (2) confinement in jail for a term not to exceed one year; or (3) both such fine and confinement.\", \"sentence\": \"A Class A misdemeanor carries a fine up to $4,000, jail up to one year, or both (Texas Penal Code \u00a7 12.21).\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.12.htm#12.35\", \"also\": [{\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.12.htm#12.35\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 12.35\", \"heading\": \"STATE JAIL FELONY PUNISHMENT\", \"support\": \"may be punished by a fine not to exceed $10,000\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 12.35. STATE JAIL FELONY PUNISHMENT. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (c), an individual adjudged guilty of a state jail felony shall be punished by confinement in a state jail for any term of not more than two years or less than 180 days. (b) In addition to confinement, an individual adjudged guilty of a state jail felony may be punished by a fine not to exceed $10,000. (c) An individual adjudged guilty of a state jail felony shall be punished for a third degree felony if it is shown on the trial of the offense that: \u2026\"}], \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 12.35\", \"heading\": \"STATE JAIL FELONY PUNISHMENT\", \"support\": \"an individual adjudged guilty of a state jail felony shall be punished by confinement in a state jail for any term of not more than two years or less than 180 days.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 12.35. STATE JAIL FELONY PUNISHMENT. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (c), an individual adjudged guilty of a state jail felony shall be punished by confinement in a state jail for any term of not more than two years or less than 180 days. (b) In addition to confinement, an individual adjudged guilty of a state jail felony may be punished by a fine not to exceed $10,000. (c) An individual adjudged guilty of a state jail felony shall be punished for a third degree felony if it is shown on the trial of the offense that: \u2026\", \"sentence\": \"A state jail felony carries 180 days to two years in a state jail and a fine up to $10,000 (Texas Penal Code \u00a7 12.35).\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.12.htm#12.44\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 12.44\", \"heading\": \"REDUCTION OF STATE JAIL FELONY PUNISHMENT TO MISDEMEANOR PUNISHMENT\", \"support\": \"A court may punish a defendant who is convicted of a state jail felony by imposing the confinement permissible as punishment for a Class A misdemeanor if\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"Sec. 12.44. REDUCTION OF STATE JAIL FELONY PUNISHMENT TO MISDEMEANOR PUNISHMENT. (a) A court may punish a defendant who is convicted of a state jail felony by imposing the confinement permissible as punishment for a Class A misdemeanor if, after considering the gravity and circumstances of the felony committed and the history, character, and rehabilitative needs of the defendant, the court finds that such punishment would best serve the ends of justice. (b) At the request of the prosecuting attorney, the court may authorize the prosecuting attorney to prosecute a state jail felony as a Class A misdemeanor.\", \"sentence\": \"A court may punish a state jail felony with Class A misdemeanor confinement if it makes the findings required by Texas Penal Code \u00a7 12.44.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.07\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07\", \"heading\": \"PUBLIC LEWDNESS\", \"support\": \"An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"Sec. 21.07. PUBLIC LEWDNESS. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place or, if not in a public place, the person is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the person's: (1) act of sexual intercourse; (2) act of deviate sexual intercourse; or (3) act of sexual contact. (b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"sentence\": \"Public lewdness is a Class A misdemeanor under Texas law.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.07\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07\", \"heading\": \"PUBLIC LEWDNESS\", \"support\": \"the offense is a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"Sec. 21.07. PUBLIC LEWDNESS. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place or, if not in a public place, the person is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the person's: (1) act of sexual intercourse; (2) act of deviate sexual intercourse; or (3) act of sexual contact. (b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"sentence\": \"It becomes a third-degree felony only if the person was civilly committed as a sexually violent predator.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.08\", \"also\": [{\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.07\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07\", \"heading\": \"PUBLIC LEWDNESS\", \"support\": \"except that the offense is a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"law_text\": \"Sec. 21.07. PUBLIC LEWDNESS. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place or, if not in a public place, the person is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the person's: (1) act of sexual intercourse; (2) act of deviate sexual intercourse; or (3) act of sexual contact. (b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\"}], \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.08\", \"heading\": \"INDECENT EXPOSURE\", \"support\": \"a Class A misdemeanor if it is shown on the trial of the offense that the defendant has been previously convicted one time of an offense under this section\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"\u2026 (b) An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor, except that the offense is: (1) a Class A misdemeanor if it is shown on the trial of the offense that the defendant has been previously convicted one time of an offense under this section; (2) a state jail felony if it is shown on the trial of the offense that the defendant has been previously convicted two or more times of an offense under this section; or (3) a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"sentence\": \"It depends on the exact offense, subsection, and conviction.\"}, {\"url\": \"https:\/\/statutes.capitol.texas.gov\/Docs\/PE\/htm\/PE.21.htm#21.07\", \"cite\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07\", \"heading\": \"PUBLIC LEWDNESS\", \"support\": \"(a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place or, if not in a public place, the person is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the person's:\", \"verdict\": \"supported\", \"law_text\": \"Sec. 21.07. PUBLIC LEWDNESS. (a) A person commits an offense if the person knowingly engages in any of the following acts in a public place or, if not in a public place, the person is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by the person's: (1) act of sexual intercourse; (2) act of deviate sexual intercourse; or (3) act of sexual contact. (b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a felony of the third degree if the actor is civilly committed as a sexually violent predator under Chapter 841, Health and Safety Code.\", \"sentence\": \"Texas Penal Code \u00a7 21.07 defines public lewdness as knowingly engaging in an act of sexual intercourse, deviate sexual intercourse or sexual contact in a public place or, if not in a public place, being reckless about whether another person is present who will be offended or alarmed by the act.\"}], \"languages\": [{\"code\": \"en\", \"post_id\": 294}]}","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"","chg_jsonld":"[{\"name\": \"Dallas Sex Crimes Defense for Public Lewdness and Indecent Exposure Charges\", \"@type\": [\"Service\", \"FAQPage\"], \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"Audience\", \"audienceType\": \"Adults arrested, cited, or under investigation for public lewdness or indecent exposure in Dallas County, including licensed professionals, employees, and students\"}, \"provider\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Barbieri Law Firm\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/\"}, \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"areaServed\": [{\"name\": \"Dallas County, Texas\", \"@type\": \"County\"}, {\"name\": \"Collin County, Texas\", \"@type\": \"County\"}, {\"name\": \"Texas\", \"@type\": \"State\"}], \"description\": \"Plain-English guide to Texas public lewdness (Penal Code 21.07) and indecent exposure (Penal Code 21.08) charges, covering the elements the State must prove, how a charge can affect work, licensing, and records, what a defense review covers, and what to expect after the first call.\", \"serviceType\": \"Criminal defense for public lewdness and indecent exposure charges under Texas Penal Code Chapter 21\", \"termsOfService\": \"Page provides general information only. No outcome is guaranteed.\", \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Heather Barbieri\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.barbierilawfirm.com\/attorneys\/heather-barbieri\/\", \"jobTitle\": \"Founding Attorney, Board Certified in Criminal Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.texasbar.com\/AM\/Template.cfm?Section=Update_My_Profile&Template=\/CustomSource\/AttorneySearch\/MainProfileView.cfm&CFID=16102400&CFTOKEN=de0a8b038ec3c7b5-2AB4B1CB-5056-9551-D4D5BC06D0A3DEE5\", \"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/heather-barbieri-3880184\", \"https:\/\/www.avvo.com\/attorneys\/75034-tx-heather-barbieri-1771243.html\"]}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Barbieri Law Firm\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Carrie Thomas\", \"jobTitle\": \"Managing Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.texasbar.com\/AM\/Template.cfm?Section=Update_My_Profile&Template=\/CustomSource\/AttorneySearch\/MainProfileView.cfm&CFID=16102400&CFTOKEN=de0a8b038ec3c7b5-2AB4B1CB-5056-9551-D4D5BC06D0A3DEE5\"]}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is public lewdness a felony or a misdemeanor in Texas?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Public lewdness is a Class A misdemeanor under Texas law. It becomes a third-degree felony only if the person was civilly committed as a sexually violent predator.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Will I have to register as a sex offender?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"It depends on the exact offense, subsection, and conviction.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can a charge affect my job?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"It can, through background checks, public court records, and employer or licensing questions. Bring any related letters to your first meeting.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How much does a consultation cost?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"The initial consultation is free. We explain fee options during that meeting.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Should I talk to police before I speak with a lawyer?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Getting advice first is wise. What you say at the scene can shape the case, so ask for a lawyer before you give a statement.\"}}]}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Online Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 3, \"name\": \"Dallas Sex Crimes Lawyer for Indecency Charges\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/online-sex-crimes-defense-lawyer\/dallas-sex-crimes-lawyer\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"Dallas sex crimes lawyer guide to Texas public lewdness and indecent exposure charges, penalties, and the defense review. Call (972) 424-1902.","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-294","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/294","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=294"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/294\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":412,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/294\/revisions\/412"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/19"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/barbierilawfirm.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=294"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}