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Public urination California - The penalty and penal codes

Updated on June 19th, 2023

Urinating In Public In California Is A Criminal Offense

Public urination in California is an offense.  California residents and visitors must be made aware that urinating in public in the state is deemed a serious crime which, upon conviction, could incur heavy consequences such as:

  • Fines and jail term

Understanding California Laws on Public Urination

Public urination in California is an offense parked under disorderly conduct as stated in the California Penal Code section 647. It could also be charged as an offense in being a public nuisance under California Penal Code sections 370 and 372.

Usually, those who are arrested for public urination are those who exhibit certain forms of disruptive behavior in public which is often caused by intoxication. It is possible for public urination to be charged as an indecent exposure which is a more serious crime under California Penal Code section 314. However, it is still considered a misdemeanor of lewd behavior.

Penalties and Consequences For Misdemeanor Public Urination Charges

Although public urination could be charged as a misdemeanor in California, it could incur unfavorable penalties that include:

  • Maximum one year imprisonment in a county jail
  • Fines between $50 and $500
  • Community services

Social dire consequences may come on later when the offender finds hindrances to:

  • Getting a job
  • Renting an apartment
  • Applying for a professional license

These adverse social consequences are caused by the offender’s criminal record which cannot be expunged unless on special circumstances or court request. The offender of this seemingly minor offense is deemed a serious criminal in the eyes of the public and local authorities.

Get Legal Assistance The San Diego Criminal Defense Pros

Offenders of public urination charges should not take the charge lightly with a criminal record for life at stake. This seemingly light misdemeanor charge could upset the offender’s life for life unless professional legal advice is sought from experienced and competent criminal defense lawyers who are experts in this area.

It is expedient for the offender to hire an experienced California criminal law attorney who is well versed with such charges to activate a professional and aggressive legal representation that reduces or dismisses the charge. Please contact us for free consultation.