In the state of California, Penal Code 647j makes “invasion of privacy” a crime. The problem is that this Code includes several different acts and many people are not even aware they are illegal. Keep reading to find out more about charges of invasion of privacy and then contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 if you are in need of a free legal consultation.
There Are Three Crimes That Can Be Considered Invasion of Privacy
California considers three different crimes to be invasion of privacy:
- Using a device to look through a hole or opening;
- Using a concealed camera to look under or through a person’s clothing;
- Using a concealed camera to view a person’s body while they are in a private room.
In addition to potential criminal charges for invasion of privacy, a person can potentially sue in a civil court too.
Examples of Criminal Invasion of Privacy
If you are not still clear on what criminal invasion of privacy can include, let us give you some examples. If a person uses binoculars to look into another person’s window to watch them undress, this may be criminal invasion of privacy. If a person records people changing in a fitting room, this could be invasion of privacy. These are just a few examples that hopefully give you a better idea of what the crime is.
Potential Punishment for Criminal Invasion of Privacy
Invasion of Privacy is considered a crime in California under our disorderly conduct laws. This makes it a misdemeanor. The potential punishment is up to six months in jail and fines of up to $1,000. While it will depend heavily on the specifics of the case, most people will not serve time in jail for this offense unless they have been previously convicted of a similar crime.
Defense Options for Charges of Invasion of Privacy
If you are charged with invasion of privacy then the first thing you should do is contact a criminal defense attorney. Even if it seems as though it is a minor issue and you are just being charged with a misdemeanor, remember that a conviction will show up on background checks. There will come a point in time in which you are going to be asked to explain what you were convicted of and that point in time could be very uncomfortable.
A much better option is to let an experienced attorney fight your case for you. At Chambers Law Firm we will carefully consider all evidence against you. We will carefully factor in the facts of the case, your criminal history, and all other issues involved in the case to find the best way forward. We can get started right now when you call us at 714-760-4088 for a free legal consultation.
