In the state of California, it is unlawful to solicit, agree to engage in, or engage in a sexual act for money or other forms of compensation. Prostitution charges carry strict penalties that can last a lifetime. If you have been charged with this type of sexual crime, it is essential to speak with a reputable Corona prostitution lawyer immediately.
Our seasoned criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry have defended our clients against charges such as these for over 40 years. We know precisely how these cases are investigated and prosecuted, which help us build effective legal strategies that typically result in dropped or reduced charges.
How is Prostitution Charged?
Under California Penal Code 647b PC, it is illegal to engage in prostitution or solicit or agree to be involved in prostitution. This means that both the prostitute and their customer, or “john” can be arrested and charged with this crime. In California, these crimes are charged as a misdemeanor and carry considerable penalties. A prostitution conviction carries a sentence of up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
It is important to note that this crime is a “priorable offense,” meaning that the penalties will increase with subsequent convictions. For a second prostitution conviction, penalties include a minimum of 45 days in jail, and a third or any subsequent conviction carries a sentence of a minimum of 90 days in jail. An attorney in Corona could explain what an accused individual should expect during the legal process depending on their specific prostitution charges.
What are the Legal Defenses to Prostitution?
Depending on the circumstances of your prostitution case, several legal strategies could prove effective. Some of these include but are not limited to:
- Insufficient or untrustworthy evidence
- Lack of intent
- 4th Amendment violation
- Entrapment
A skilled lawyer in Corona could determine what defense strategy may work best in a particular prostitution case.
How a Knowledgeable Prostitution Defense Attorney Can Help
Having experienced legal counsel on your side significantly increases your chances of avoiding a conviction. Our seasoned attorneys are committed to providing superior legal representation by:
- Explaining your rights, options, and possible outcomes
- Guiding you through the entire criminal process
- Performing a thorough investigation into the allegations
- Meticulously reviewing the police report to look for any errors or discrepancies
- Presenting evidence to law enforcement or prosecutors
- Skillfully negotiating to avoid charges or have existing charges reduced or dismissed
- Negotiating to minimize penalties and avoid jail time in cases where a conviction is unavoidable
Contact an Experienced Corona Prostitution Attorney
If you have been charged with exchanging money for sex, we urge you to contact our experienced Corona prostitution lawyers right away. At the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry, we understand how severe a conviction can be. We fight tirelessly to defend our clients against criminal charges and minimize or avoid any consequences. Contact our office today for a free, confidential case analysis. One of our skilled lawyers could explain your charges, advise you of your rights and legal options, and begin to determine a defense strategy that best fits your situation.