Prostitution is a serious criminal offense. Though some would argue that it is a victimless crime, state laws and aggressive prosecutors think otherwise. A conviction could endanger your reputation and result in harsh fines and serious jail time.
If you have been charged with this type of offense, we strongly recommend speaking with an Ontario prostitution lawyer right away. Sex crimes carry overwhelming consequences, so it is essential to obtain skilled and aggressive legal representation to properly defend you against these charges. Our seasoned criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Scott Henry have been defending these cases for over four decades. They have the knowledge and resources to advocate effectively on your behalf to avoid a conviction and mitigate any consequences.
What Constitutes Prostitution?
Prostitution charges arise when an individual agrees to pay for a sexual act, offers to perform a sexual act for money or other compensation, or engages in a sexual act in exchange for compensation. These unlawful acts are misdemeanors and carry sentences that include six months in jail, probation, and a $1,000 fine. Prostitution is what is known as a “priorable” offense. This means that penalties for any future convictions will become increasingly harsh. Second convictions carry penalties that include a minimum of a 45-day jail sentence, and a third or subsequent conviction carries a minimum 90-day jail sentence.
It is important to note that the crime of supervising or aiding prostitution is also a crime. This offense is related to the widely known offenses of pimping and pandering. California Penal Code 653.23 PC makes it unlawful to direct, supervise, recruit, or otherwise aid another person in the commission of prostitution as well as collect or receive all or a portion of the proceeds earned from this crime.
An individual is guilty of committing this crime if they monitor a prostitute, repeatedly communicate with a prostitute, communicate with others in an attempt to solicit prostitution on behalf of the prostitute, or openly receive money from a prostitute. In California, this crime is charged as a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. A lawyer in Ontario could help someone accused of any prostitution-related crime.
Legal Defenses to Prostitution
Building a solid defense is essential in obtaining a favorable outcome. Several strategies are typically effective, including but not limited to:
- Lack of intent
- Insufficient or untrustworthy evidence
- Police coercion
- Forced into prostitution
- Illegal search and seizure
Our knowledgeable Ontario defense attorneys could thoroughly investigate the alleged incident and determine the most appropriate and persuasive defense argument specific to your prostitution case.
Contact a Skilled Ontario Prostitution Attorney
Given the seriousness of prostitution charges, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Our experienced and aggressive Ontario prostitution lawyers at the Law Offices of Scott Henry are committed to fighting tirelessly to get you a positive resolution. We are skilled litigators who never shy away from taking a case to trial. Our sex crime attorneys have a thorough understanding and familiarity with state prostitution laws and could pursue every legal angle to get you the result you need. Contact our offices today for a complimentary case analysis with one of our leading attorneys.