Criminal Defense Sex Offenses
Public Lewdness
Public lewdness is a criminal offense under Texas Penal Code § 21.07. It is illegal to engage in sexual conduct in a public place, or in a private place where the conduct is observable by others who would be offended or alarmed. While often charged as a misdemeanor, a conviction carries a permanent criminal record and can have lasting consequences for employment, professional licensing, and reputation. Todd Rash provides experienced, discreet defense for clients facing these charges throughout North and Central Texas.
Texas Law Penal Code § 21.07
Public lewdness is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000. The offense covers sexual intercourse, deviate sexual intercourse, sexual contact, and sexual contact with an animal, when committed in a public place or in view of a person who would be offended. The law does not require that anyone actually witnessed the conduct, only that it was observable.
Context and Circumstances
Public lewdness charges frequently arise from situations that are ambiguous or that involve a misunderstanding about the privacy of a location. Whether a place qualifies as "public" or whether the conduct was truly observable are factual questions that Todd Rash examines carefully in every case. The prosecution must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt.
Protecting Your Record
For first-time offenders, options may exist to resolve the case without a permanent criminal conviction. Todd Rash explores every available avenue, including deferred adjudication and pretrial diversion, to protect his clients from the long-term consequences of a misdemeanor conviction on their record.
Potential Penalties
- › Class A misdemeanor up to 1 year in jail
- › Fine of up to $4,000
- › Permanent criminal record
- › Potential impact on professional licenses and employment
Possible Defenses
- › Location did not qualify as a public place
- › Conduct was not observable by others
- › No one present would have been offended or alarmed
- › Mistaken identity
- › Insufficient evidence
- › Improper arrest or search procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
Facing Public Lewdness charges?
Todd Rash has a proven record defending clients throughout Texas. Call now for a free consultation.
Free Consultation(817) 808-2247Understanding the Cost of a Sex Offense Defense
Sex offense cases are among the most complex and resource-intensive in criminal law. Attorney fees are typically on par with murder and other serious felony charges a reflection of the time, preparation, and expertise required.
An effective defense often requires retaining outside experts: polygraph examiners, licensed psychologists for psychosexual evaluation, private investigators, and information technology professionals. These expert fees are separate from attorney fees and are the responsibility of the client.
Todd Rash will be straightforward with you about anticipated costs from your very first consultation.