Open Lewdness is a criminal charge in PA. It can carry with it a lifetime of problems…. if you choose the wrong attorney. When it comes to finding the best Pennsylvania Sex Crimes attorney, we are it.
Indecent Assault dismissed
I have never seen or heard of a more talented group of people and I believe if people really care about their life and future they’ll think real hard about hiring you guys.
SL
Agg Indecent Assault dismissed
Justin, I believe, is the best bar none. Not only just in the courtroom but also for just being a great guy. I’ve always been told not to trust an attorney but Justin I trust along with the whole firm.
Anonymous
Was able to take tension off of the situation, and able to explain what was going on. Also helped put my mind at ease knowing that they were helping me along the way
R.M.
I called at midnight the night before my hearing and spoke with Attorney Barrouk for almost an hour. He attended my hearing and got my charges dismissed.
T.M.
Everything
I felt your firm had everything under control. you were on top of things and most of all I knew I did not have to worry about anything – which was great.
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The Law
You can read the entire statute here: 18 PS § 5901 (Open Lewdness). While it is short and sweet, it is nuanced.
As always the government and the government alone has a case that it has to make. Under the law, you are innocent. The government must overcome this default not guilty with credible and actual evidence. The government must prove beyond a reasonable doubt the following:
- the accused
- did any lewd act
- knowing it is likely to be observed by others who would be affronted or alarmed.
So the nuance comes with the following questions:
When selecting which attorney to hire, please consider:
- Can you call anytime and talk to a live person?
- Do they offer payment plans with no credit checks?
- Will your attorney be attentive and explain what’s going on?
At The McShane Firm, we answer yes to all of these questions. We strive to provide you with a great customer service experience during this tough time.
What is or is not a lewd act?
Walking through a parking lot in a T-shirt and underwear does not constitute the crime of open lewdness.
Masturbating in a public parking lot parked in an area where high foot traffic existed in a conspicuous manner is a lewd act.
A man who was masturbating and exposing his genitals in his own back yard, which was visible from the victims’ home as well as an apartment occupied by another was open lewdness.
Being nude in one’s own house with windows open in and of itself is not the crime of open lewdness.
What are some examples of “knowing it is likely to be observed by others who would be affronted or alarmed”
A conviction for Open lewdness only happens when defendant’s lewd conduct occurs in a place and at a time when it is likely to be observed by persons who have not consented to its occurrence. Alternatively, the crime only occurs when those who have observed the lewd act not specially positioned themselves in such a manner as to be able to observe it. In other words, you get what you look for.
For example, a striptease in a bar viewed only by those who paid a $6 admission fee to view that specific performance was not open lewdness. It occurred in a confined space not accessible to the general, unsuspecting public. Further, they were the very acts the observers bargained for.
What is The McShane Difference?
- We take time to understand your personal needs and goals. Then we cater our legal strategy to fit you.
- We care about you. We listen and return phone calls. We will take time to explain things so you are not left anxious in the dark.
- We will make this as easy as possible. We will try to minimize the number of times you have to be in court which means less disruption of your work and family life.
Does this sound like what you are looking for in an attorney? If yes, then take the next step and call (717) 657-3900.
Megan’s Law and Sexually Violent Predator Considerations
A conviction for Open Lewdness in PA does not trigger Megan’s Law. The court cannot find you to be a Sexually Violent Predator (SVP) simply based upon this conviction.
Maximum Penalties
Open Lewdness is a misdemeanor of the third degree. As such the potential penalty is no more than one year in prison and a fine not to exceed $2500. You also have to consider all lifelong consequences with this charge. A criminal conviction will be on your record forever. Imagine trying to explain this conviction to a potential employer. Here are some other consequences to consider: Misdemeanor Conviction Consequences in Pennsylvania
Our Clients are entitled to a Bill of Rights which states:
- Our clients have the right to expect, we will be proactive in communication. You will hear it from us first. We will return all phone calls, texts and emails promptly.
- Our clients have the right to expect plain speaking, straight shooting. No B. S.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to do it right the first time, every time.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to be on time and professionally prepared for all court appearances, and all meetings.
- Our clients have the right to expect that they will be fully informed at all times.
This is our promise to you. Call today to get us on your side: (717) 657-3900.
