If you have been charged with a lewd and lascivious conduct charge, you may be wondering exactly what the charges mean and how to go about dealing with your case. An attorney who handles criminal defense law cases in your jurisdiction can help prepare your case.
Dealing with Lewd and Lascivious Charges
Criminal charges can be daunting. Your freedom and reputation are suddenly compromised when you have to deal with such accusations. It is important to keep your wits about you to the best of your abilities and handle your case with care. Here are some steps to take if you are charged with a crime such as lewd and lascivious conduct:
- Understand the severity of the charges. Even though lewd and lascivious conduct is usually a misdemeanor (a minor charge when compared with a felony), it can result in a life time of required sex offender registration. Because of the life altering potential of the charges, it is best to do whatever in your means to get the charges reduced, removed or go to trial if you have a strong case.
- What constitutes lewd and lascivious conduct will vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. State criminal law, for the most part, is separate and distinct in each of the states. While it may interplay with federal law, most state criminal cases involve state statutes. Ask your attorney to inform you of the criminal statute under which you are being charged to gain a better understanding of an appropriate defense in your case.
- Most such statutes have a knowledge or intent element. If you did not realize that your actions may be viewed or witnessed by others, you may have a viable defense against the charges. If you have a good defense, you should prepare for trial unless the prosecutor is willing to reduce or remove the charges.
- Get a lawyer. If you are facing criminal charges, no matter what your current financial situation, you need to get the help of an experienced attorney.
Getting Legal Advice
If you are facing criminal charges such as lewd and lascivious conduct charges, an attorney who handles criminal allegations can help you fight your case every step of the way. An attorney will do whatever in his legal power to get your case dismissed, reduce the charges if appropriate or take your case to trial. You will be confident of your legal rights being preserved with an attorney by your side.