Public urination is a widespread problem across the United States. There are many reasons why people engage in this behavior, such as a lack of public restrooms in the area, long wait times to use restrooms, or simply the desire for convenience. However, it is important to understand that public urination is illegal and poses a health hazard to the community. 

The presence of urine in public spaces can spread diseases, such as hepatitis A and E, and can also create an unpleasant smell that can discourage people from visiting the area.

In addition, public urination is generally an infraction in the state of Washington. However, sometimes, you can get charged with a more serious crime, such as indecent exposure. If you were not exposing yourself to cause affront or alarm, your attorney might argue to get these charges reduced to an infraction of “urinating in public.”

What Charges Will You Face If You’re Caught Urinating in Public?

Public urination is an infraction typically punishable by a $250 fine. However, if the prosecution charges you with indecent exposure, you could face fines up to $1,000 and/or up to 90 days in jail. Additionally, this offense may result in a criminal record, which can have long-lasting consequences, such as difficulty obtaining employment or housing. 

In the state of Washington. RCW 9A.88.010 outlines indecent exposure as "intentionally making any open and obscene exposure of his or her person or the person of another knowing that such conduct is likely to cause reasonable affront or alarm." This includes exposing oneself in a public place or engaging in sexual conduct in public.

Will I Have To Register as a Sex Offender If I Urinate in Public?

If you get arrested for urinating in public, you may worry that you’ll have to register as a sex offender. Fortunately, this is not true. Public urination in Washington is considered an infraction, not a sex crime,  and does not require you to register as a sex offender.  

What Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do to Help?

If you are arrested for public urination, it is important to seek the advice of a Seattle criminal defense attorney. If you were urinating in public but find yourself facing more serious indecent exposure charges, you must act quickly. These are more serious charges, and you will need a criminal defense lawyer to handle your case.  An attorney with experience handling indecent exposure charges can help you navigate the legal system and may be able to negotiate a plea deal or reduced charges. 

Additionally, a criminal defense attorney can help you understand your rights and any potential defenses you may have. Having a criminal record can have long-lasting consequences, so it is important to take any criminal charges seriously and seek out the advice of a qualified attorney.

Lack of Intent Defense

Your attorney will argue that there was a lack of intent when you were caught urinating in public. Washington law states that defendants are guilty of indecent exposure if they intentionally made an open and obscene exposure. If you did not intend for anyone to see you urinating, your lawyer may use this defense to argue that you did not intend to expose yourself indecently. 

Contact Our Seattle Criminal Defense Lawyers Today!

If you are facing charges for indecent exposure, or urinating in public, it is crucial to seek the assistance of experienced legal counsel as soon as possible. At Lewis & Laws, we understand the urgency of these matters and work tirelessly to prevent charges from being filed against you. If you have been arrested or detained and fear that you may be charged with a crime, don't hesitate to contact us for help. Our goal is to have the charges dismissed entirely, or to take your case to trial and win to prevent a criminal record.