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What is the penalty for a conviction of Public Indecency for the purpose of urination?

What is the penalty for a conviction of Public Indecency for the purpose of urination?

Q: What can happen if you get caught peeing in public?

If caught urinating in public, you may receive a citation or ticket for public indecency. This can lead to fines and, in some cases, a misdemeanor charge. The severity of the consequences often depends on local laws and whether it is a first offense. Repeat offenses may result in harsher penalties.

Q: Does peeing in public go on your record?

Whether public urination goes on your record depends on the outcome of the case. If you are convicted of a misdemeanor, it may appear on your criminal record. However, first-time offenders might have the option for expungement or diversion programs, which can help avoid a permanent record.

Q: What is the public urination charge?

Public urination is typically charged as public indecency, which can be classified as a misdemeanor. The specific charge may vary by state, but in Illinois, for example, it falls under 720 ILCS 5/11-9. Penalties can include fines and possible jail time, especially for repeated offenses.

Q: What is the charge if you pee in public?

If you pee in public, you may be charged with public indecency. This is usually a misdemeanor, but the exact charge can depend on local laws. In some jurisdictions, it may also lead to additional charges if there are aggravating factors, such as being near minors.

Full question:

I want to know what the penalty is for a conviction of Public Indecency for the purpose of urination. I got a ticket for it and I just want to know if I will have to pay a fine or if it would leave me with a criminal record that would exclude me from practicing law. What is the worst that could happen if I plead guilty. This was my first offense and I have a clean record.

Category: Criminal
Date: 04/07/2025
State: National

Answer:

I am unable to tell you what the specific ordinance in your area allows for sentencing. Public urination ordinances are passed by local areas, imposing varying fines and sentences by local area. I suggest calling the local clerk of courts for sentencing information. Often, a fine may be paid without having a criminal record, but the chances are less likely if the defendant fails to appear and defend himself on the scheduled date of hearing.

If you were charged under the state statute below, the plea of guilty allows the judge to sentence you to a Class A misdemeanor. Class A misdemeanors in Illinois are those punishable by less than a year of confinement.

The following is an Illinois statute:

720 ILCS 5/11-9 (from Ch. 38, par. 11-9)
Sec. 11-9. Public indecency.

(a) Any person of the age of 17 years and upwards who performs any of the following acts in a public place commits a public indecency:

(1) An act of sexual penetration or sexual conduct as defined in Section 12-12 of this Code; or

(2) A lewd exposure of the body done with intent to arouse or to satisfy the sexual desire of the person.
Breast-feeding of infants is not an act of public indecency.

(b) "Public place" for purposes of this Section means any place where the conduct may reasonably be expected to be viewed by others.

(c) Sentence.

Public indecency is a Class A misdemeanor. A person convicted of a third or subsequent violation for public indecency is guilty of a Class 4 felony.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What is the law of urination?

The law regarding urination in public varies by state and local jurisdiction. Generally, public urination is considered a form of public indecency. In many places, it is classified as a misdemeanor, which may result in fines or other penalties. It's important to check local laws to understand the specific regulations and consequences in your area.