The laws pertaining to sex crimes are extremely complex. This is especially true for charges of prostitution and solicitation. Charges can be filed if law enforcement believes you offered to engage in, or attempted to engage in, a sexual act in exchange for money or other compensation. A conviction can result in substantial fines, jail time, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. It can also cause permanent damage to your personal and professional relationships.
If you have been charged with conducting sexual transactions, it is best to immediately seek skilled legal representation from a Redlands prostitution lawyer. Scott D. Henry and his team have decades of defense experience. We know precisely how prostitution charges are investigated and prosecuted in the area and could build an aggressive defense strategy tailored to your case.
What is Prostitution?
California Penal Code 647b PC makes it unlawful to solicit or engage in prostitution. State law defines prostitution as a lewd act performed in exchange for money or other compensation. You can be charged with prostitution if you do any of the following:
- Solicit another to participate in the act
- Agree to engage in the act
- Engage in the act
Law enforcement diligently pursues prostitution offenders. If you face charges involving prostitution, it is best to be proactive and immediately retain the services of a capable defense attorney in Redlands.
What Acts are Considered to Further the Commission of Prostitution?
For the prosecution to convict someone with prostitution, they must prove that the defendant took actions that furthered the commission of this crime. Acts that may qualify as furthering the commission of prostitution include:
- The possession of condoms or other items intended to be used during a sexual act
- Arriving at a location where the sexual act is to be performed
- Withdrawing money at an ATM after agreeing to a sexual act
- Handing over payment or compensation for the act.
Several points can be argued to challenge whether these actions furthered the commission of a crime. For example, having a condom in your wallet may not be considered furtherance if you typically keep one in your wallet.
Penalties for Exchanging Sex for Money in Redlands
Prostitution is considered a “priorable offense,” which means the penalties for a conviction will increase with each subsequent conviction. A conviction has long-lasting severe effects. The penalties include hefty fines and possible jail time. A first conviction carries a penalty of up to six months in jail, a second conviction carries a penalty of a minimum of 45 days in jail, and any subsequent conviction carries a mandatory 90-day jail sentence.
Several additional consequences result from these charges as well. You will have a permanent criminal record, which limits employment and housing opportunities. Your personal and professional lives are also dramatically affected, and your reputation may be forever tarnished. A skilled lawyer in Redlands could help someone minimize the penalties they may be facing for prostitution charges.
Legal Defenses for Prostitution
This is a serious crime with severe consequences. However, there are several effective defense strategies for prostitution that Scott D. Henry and his team of Redlands attorneys could aggressively pursue. Some of these include:
- Insufficient evidence
- Lack of intent
- Entrapment
- Violation of your 4th Amendment rights
- Untrustworthy witness statements
Contact a Redlands Prostitution Attorney
The outcome of your case could dramatically affect your future. If you have been charged with exchanging sex for money, it is essential to seek representation from a Redlands prostitution lawyer.
Our leading attorneys at The Law Office of Scott D. Henry have extensive experience with these cases accompanied by a proven track record of success. We understand how challenging this situation is and we are committed to providing our guidance every step of the way. Looking out for your best interests is our top priority. Contact us today for a free consultation.