Public Lewdness Lawyer Nassau County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Public lewdness in Nassau County is a Class B misdemeanor under New York Penal Law § 245.00, punishable by up to 90 days in jail. A conviction can lead to sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for these sensitive charges. Our public lewdness lawyer Nassau County team understands the local court procedures and works to protect your rights and future.
New York Public Lewdness Law
Public lewdness is defined under New York Penal Law § 245.00. A person is guilty of this offense when they intentionally expose their private parts in a public place or in a private place where they can be readily observed from a public place, and they do so with the intent to be observed or for the purpose of sexual gratification or to alarm or annoy another person. This statute is strictly enforced in Nassau County, where such charges are prosecuted in the Nassau County Criminal Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Nassau County Criminal Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to New York Penal Law § 245.00 (official New York State Senate). Court information and procedures can be found at the Nassau County Courts website.
Nassau County Court Process for Public Lewdness
In Nassau County, public lewdness cases are handled in the Nassau County Criminal Court. Under New York’s 2020 bail reform, most misdemeanor defendants, including those charged with public lewdness, are released on their own recognizance with a desk appearance ticket (DAT). The court process focuses heavily on the specific intent and circumstances of the alleged act.
- You will receive a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT) or be arraigned.
- Your attorney will review the complaint and police reports for factual and legal defenses.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the District Attorney’s office, often seeking an ACD or a violation-level plea.
- If no plea is reached, your attorney will prepare for a bench trial before a judge.
- A successful defense or plea may avoid jail time and sex offender registration.
Potential Penalties for Public Lewdness in Nassau County
In Nassau County, public lewdness is a Class B misdemeanor carrying up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, and potential probation.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Lewdness (First Offense) | Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Probation, possible sex offender registration |
| Public Lewdness (Subsequent) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | None | Mandatory sex offender registration likely |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the severe personal and professional consequences a public lewdness charge can bring and provide a discreet, vigorous defense focused on protecting your reputation and future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific local case counts are not published, SRIS actively practices in Nassau County. Firm-wide, our attorneys have achieved 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and acquittals in sensitive misdemeanor cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Public Lewdness Lawyer Near Me Nassau County
Our New York location serves clients throughout Nassau County, including Mineola, Garden City, Hempstead, Long Beach, Valley Stream, Hicksville, Levittown, Freeport, Rockville Centre, Glen Cove, Oyster Bay, Great Neck, Massapequa, and Syosset. We are accessible via I-495 (LIE) and the Northern/Southern State Parkways.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is public lewdness a sex crime in New York?
Yes. Public lewdness under NY Penal Law § 245.00 is classified as a sex offense. A conviction can trigger mandatory registration as a sex offender under the New York Sex Offender Registration Act (SORA), depending on the specific circumstances and your criminal history.
Can I get an ACD for a public lewdness charge in Nassau County?
It depends. An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is often available for first-time, non-violent misdemeanor offenses like public lewdness. If you comply with the terms (typically 6-12 months with no new arrests), the case is dismissed and sealed. An experienced public lewdness lawyer Nassau County can advocate for this outcome.
What is the difference between public lewdness and indecent exposure?
In New York, “public lewdness” is the specific statutory charge found in Penal Law § 245.00. It requires intent for sexual gratification or to alarm/annoy. “Indecent exposure” is a broader common-law term but is typically prosecuted under the public lewdness statute in Nassau County.
Will I go to jail for a first-time public lewdness charge?
Not necessarily. For a first-time Class B misdemeanor charge, jail is possible but not automatic. The court often considers alternatives like an ACD, conditional discharge, or probation. An affordable public lewdness lawyer Nassau County can work to negotiate a non-custodial resolution.
How can a lawyer help with a public lewdness charge?
A lawyer can challenge the intent element required by the statute, negotiate for a favorable plea like an ACD, argue for reduced charges, protect your rights during questioning, and represent you at trial. Early intervention is key to building a strong defense.
Internal Links: For more information, see our New York Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Suffolk County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Nassau County Family Law services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding public lewdness charges in Nassau County.