Indecent Exposure Attorney in Corpus Christi

Facing An Indecent Exposure Charge Can Feel Overwhelming—Fight Back with a Former Prosecutor

If you have been accused of indecent exposure, you are probably worried about your record, your reputation, and what your family or employer might find out. This is a criminal charge in Texas, and it can carry serious consequences for your future. You may feel judged already, even before you step into a courtroom.

I am Robert J. Gonzalez, and I have provided legal guidance in this area since 1984. I defend people who are facing indecent exposure and other criminal allegations in and around Corpus Christi. As a former Municipal Court Judge, I understand how these cases are viewed from the bench, and I use that experience to help my clients move forward.

My goal is to give you clear information, honest guidance, and a judgment-free space to talk about what happened. I offer a risk-free consultation, so you can ask questions and understand your options before you decide how to proceed.

Don't let a misunderstanding ruin your life. Call an indecent exposure attorney in Corpus Christi today at (361) 309-9332 or contact me online.

Understanding Indecent Exposure Laws in Texas

Indecent exposure is defined under Texas Penal Code § 21.08. To secure a conviction, the state must prove that a person exposed their anus or any part of their genitals with the specific intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person. Furthermore, the law requires that the individual was reckless about whether another person was present who would be offended or alarmed by the act.

It is important to distinguish this charge from related offenses to understand the specific legal battle ahead:

• Indecent Exposure vs. Public Lewdness: While indecent exposure focuses on the act of exposure itself, Public Lewdness (§ 21.07) involves actual sexual contact or intercourse in a public place.
• Indecent Exposure vs. Disorderly Conduct: In some cases, exposure that lacks sexual intent (such as urinating in public or "mooning" as a prank) may be better classified as Disorderly Conduct, which carries much lighter penalties.
• Indecent Exposure vs. Indecency with a Child: If the state alleges the exposure occurred in the presence of a minor under 17, the charge can be elevated to Indecency with a Child, which is a high-level felony.

As a Corpus Christi indecent exposure lawyer, I meticulously analyze the details of the arrest to determine if the prosecution has overcharged a client for conduct that does not meet the strict statutory definition of Section 21.08.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Indecent Exposure Convictions in Corpus Christi 

The immediate penalties for a conviction are only the beginning of the problems you may face.

• Criminal Penalties: A first-time offense is typically a Class B Misdemeanor in Texas, punishable by up to 180 days in the Nueces County Jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
• Enhanced Charges: If you have a prior conviction for this offense, it escalates to a Class A Misdemeanor, which doubles the potential jail time to one year and increases the fine to $4,000. Under 2025 updates, a third offense can be enhanced to a state jail felony.
• Sex Offender Registration: While a first offense usually does not require registration, a second "violation" (even if the first resulted in deferred adjudication) can trigger a 10-year requirement to register as a sex offender.

There are also indirect consequences that many people do not think about right away. A criminal record can create problems with certain jobs, professional licenses, housing applications, and even travel. In some situations, multiple incidents or other related charges can lead to more serious consequences. Part of my job is to explain how the law applies to your specific case and to discuss ways to limit the long-term impact whenever possible.

Why Hire Me For This Charge

When you search for an indecent exposure lawyer in Corpus Christi, it can be hard to know who to call. In my practice, I combine decades of criminal defense work with the perspective I gained as a Municipal Court Judge. I have seen how prosecutors prepare cases and how judges weigh evidence, and that helps me explain what you can realistically expect.

I have practiced law in this community since 1984. During that time, I have handled a wide range of criminal matters for people from all walks of life. My long-standing presence in local courts, including those in Nueces County, means I understand how cases typically move through the system here and how different factors may influence the outcome.

When you work with me, you deal directly with me. You are not passed from person to person, wondering who is actually handling your case. I take time to listen, to answer your questions, and to explain each step so you can make decisions with confidence. Many clients come to me at one of the most stressful points in their lives, and my focus is to provide peace of mind while I work to protect their future.

How I Defend Indecent Exposure Cases

Every case is different, and my approach begins with listening carefully to you. During our first meeting, I will ask you to walk me through what happened, from your point of view. I want to understand not just the basic facts, but also what you are most worried about, such as your job, your family, or your record. That information helps me focus on the issues that matter most to you.

I then review the police report, any witness statements, and other available evidence. I look at how the allegation was made, whether there were misunderstandings about what someone saw, and whether the required intent can actually be proven. Sometimes the context in which something occurred looks very different when you hear the whole story instead of just a brief summary in a report.

Throughout the process, I place a strong emphasis on discretion and confidentiality. Indecent exposure allegations are highly personal, and many clients feel embarrassed even talking about them. In my office, you can speak openly. My role is not to judge you, but to guide you through the legal system and work to protect your future as much as possible.

I believe that every client deserves a defense tailored to their specific life circumstances. My approach includes:

• Challenging Intent: I focus heavily on the "why" behind the incident. If there was no sexual motivation, there is no crime under Section 21.08.
• The "Privacy" Defense: If the act occurred in a place where you had a reasonable expectation of privacy, I argue that you were not "reckless" about the presence of others.
• Constitutional Challenges: I investigate whether the police had a legal right to stop or search you. If evidence was obtained through an illegal search or seizure, I will file motions to have that evidence suppressed.
• Mitigation and Character: As a family-owned law firm, I understand the importance of your reputation. I gather evidence of your character and contributions to the community to show the prosecutor and the court that you are not the "predator" the charges might suggest.

If you are facing charges, you need a Corpus Christi indecent exposure lawyer who knows how the state thinks. Contact Robert J. Gonzalez, Attorney At Law at (361) 309-9332 or via email to schedule your free consultation. As a family-owned law firm, we are committed to defending your future.