Indecent Exposure Attorney in Laredo

Facing An Indecent Exposure Charge? Our Team Is Here To Help Protect Your Future

If you or someone close to you has been accused of indecent exposure, you may be feeling scared, embarrassed, and unsure where to turn. An allegation like this can threaten your record, your reputation, and your relationships, and it can feel overwhelming to step into the criminal justice system for the first time. 

You do not have to go through that process alone. At Altgelt Law Office, P.C., we defend people accused of indecent exposure in Laredo and throughout the South Texas border region. Our firm is led by attorney George Altgelt, a former prosecutor with more than 20 years of criminal law experience who has been licensed in Texas since 2004.

Your reputation is your most valuable asset—don't let a single accusation take it away. Contact Altgelt Law Office, P.C. today to speak with a dedicated indecent exposure attorney in Laredo. Call us at (956) 758-3001 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation—Hablamos español.

Understanding Indecent Exposure Laws in Texas

In Texas, the offense of indecent exposure is codified under Texas Penal Code § 21.08. To be convicted, the state must prove that a person exposed their anus or any part of their genitals with the "intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person."

As your Laredo indecent exposure lawyer, we often have to distinguish this charge from other similar offenses. For example, if the state alleges that a child was present during the exposure, the charge may be upgraded to Indecency with a Child (Section 21.11), which is a much more severe felony. 

Conversely, if the exposure occurred without the specific intent to arouse—such as urinating in public or a practical joke—it may be more appropriate to fight for a reduction to Disorderly Conduct, which is a lower-level misdemeanor and does not carry the same sexual stigma.

It is a common misconception that indecent exposure can only happen in a public park or street. Under Texas law, you can be charged for conduct that occurs on private property, including your own home or backyard, if you are "reckless" about being seen by others who might be alarmed. This broad reach of the law makes it essential to have an indecent exposure attorney in Laredo who can challenge the state's interpretation of "recklessness" and "intent."

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Indecent Exposure in Texas

While a first-time indecent exposure charge is typically classified as a Class B Misdemeanor, the consequences are far from minor. Because Altgelt Law Office, P.C. is committed to your long-term success, we look beyond the immediate jail time to the "collateral" damage a conviction causes.

• Incarceration: A Class B Misdemeanor conviction can result in up to 180 days in the Webb County Jail.
• Financial Fines: You may be ordered to pay fines of up to $2,000, in addition to court costs.
• Repeat Offender Enhancements: If you have a prior conviction for indecent exposure, the charge is elevated to a Class A Misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail). If you have two or more priors, it becomes a State Jail Felony.
• Sex Offender Registration: This is perhaps the most feared consequence. While a first conviction does not usually require registration, a second conviction for indecent exposure triggers a 10-year registration requirement as a sex offender in Texas.
• Impact on Employment: Many employers in Laredo, especially those involving education, healthcare, or government contracts, will not hire someone with a sexual offense on their record.
• Immigration Consequences: For non-citizens, any sex-related conviction can lead to the denial of a green card, loss of legal status, or deportation. We can work closely with you to mitigate these specific risks.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Indecent Exposure Defense

At Altgelt Law Office, P.C., we provide a defense that is as thorough as it is compassionate. We know that these cases are sensitive, and we handle every detail with the utmost confidentiality.

• Challenging Witness Credibility: Many indecent exposure cases rely entirely on the word of one person. We look for inconsistencies in their story or motives they may have for making a false accusation.
• Proving Lack of Intent: We gather evidence to show that the exposure was accidental, a result of a medical condition, or performed without any sexual motivation.
• Environmental Analysis: We visit the scene of the alleged incident to determine if it was actually possible for a bystander to see what they claimed to see.
• Protecting Your Record: We prioritize strategies that keep your record clean and protect you from the requirement of sex offender registration.

What To Do After An Indecent Exposure Arrest In Laredo

The hours and days after an arrest can feel confusing. Taking a few key steps can help protect your rights from the start. The most important point is that you do not have to answer detailed questions about what happened without an attorney present. You can provide basic identifying information, but you have the right to remain silent about the facts of the case and to request a lawyer.

It can be helpful to write down everything you remember as soon as you can. Include where you were, who was present, any conversations you recall, and anything that might support your version of events, such as text messages or potential video sources. Details that seem minor now may become important later when we are reviewing the State's evidence.

Prepare For Upcoming Court Dates

In Laredo, indecent exposure cases typically move through courts that serve Webb County. After an arrest, you may have an initial appearance or arraignment where the court addresses bond, informs you of the charge, and schedules future dates. The exact timing can depend on when the arrest occurred and how busy the docket is.

It is usually wise to avoid talking about the case on social media or in casual conversations. Even comments made in frustration can be misunderstood or taken out of context. When you contact Altgelt Law Office, P.C., we can talk privately about what has happened, go over the paperwork you received, and explain what to expect next. 

Working with an indecent exposure attorney in Laredo after arrest may help protect important rights and options.

Reach out to Altgelt Law Office, P.C. at (956) 758-3001 or via our online contact form.