Law enforcement frequently conducts prostitution stings designed to catch those in the act solicitation. Additionally, prosecutors in this area actively pursue solicitation charges, and courts strongly punish those convicted of this crime.
If you have been arrested and charged with this offense, it is essential to act quickly and seek legal representation for a knowledgeable Ontario solicitation lawyer as soon as possible. Our seasoned criminal defense attorneys have been successfully handling sex crime cases for over four decades combined. We have strong relationships with local law enforcement, prosecutors, and judges, allowing us to skillfully negotiate on your behalf. We understand the potential consequences that arise from a conviction, so we pursue every legal angle to get you a positive possible, mitigating any consequences.
How Do Solicitation Cases Work?
In California, it is illegal to solicit, agree to engage in, or engage in any act of prostitution. An “act of prostitution” covers a broad range of acts, encompassing more than just sexual intercourse. Prostitution also includes “lewd acts,” which refer to any touching of the genitals, buttocks, or female breast for the purpose of sexual arousal.
In a solicitation case, the burden is on the prosecution to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you had “specific intent to engage in an act of prostitution.” Verbal and nonverbal communication may show specific intent. If you walk up to a prostitute and show them a $100 bill, it could be considered sufficient for proving solicitation took place. A lawyer in Ontario could help someone through the legal process if they have been accused of solicitation.
Penalties for Soliciting a Prostitute
Soliciting a prostitute is a misdemeanor. If convicted, the court can sentence you to up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Our experienced attorneys in Ontario are typically successful in negotiating a sentence of probation or a diversion program, avoiding any jail time in solicitation cases. It is important to remember that this crime is a “priorable” offense, meaning the penalties increase with any future conviction. Additionally, if the act of solicitation occurred within 1,000 feet of a residence or inside a vehicle, the defendant may lose their driving privileges for up to 30 days.
Will I Need to Register as a Sex Offender if I am Convicted of Solicitation?
If you are convicted of solicitation but have no prior convictions, it is unlikely the court will order you to register as a sex offender. While many sex crimes carry a mandatory sex offender registration requirement, a misdemeanor solicitation conviction is not one of them. However, it remains at the court’s discretion. Unless the judge feels the act was committed as a result of a sexual compulsion, he or she will likely not require the defendant to register as a sex offender.
Defenses Against a Solicitation Charge
Being arrested and charged with a crime can be frightening and overwhelming. Fortunately, an experienced Ontario defense attorney could build an effective legal strategy specific to your solicitation case. Several defenses are used to defend against this crime, including:
- Insufficient evidence
- Untrustworthy evidence
- Mistaken identity
- Police entrapment
- Lack of intent
- Mistake of fact
Our seasoned attorneys are often able to negotiate a lesser charge. These include charges of disturbing the peace and criminal trespass. These are also misdemeanors but lack the social stigma associated with a solicitation charge.
Speak with an Ontario Solicitation Attorney
If you have been charged with soliciting a prostitute, contact our skilled Ontario solicitation lawyers today for a free consultation. Our knowledgeable and experienced legal team at the Law Offices of Scott Henry could work tirelessly to pursue all legal options. A conviction can severely impact your life, leaving you with a damaged reputation and criminal record. Your ability to find employment and housing may become challenging, and a conviction can even impose immigration issues for non-citizens. With so much at stake, you need to ensure you have the best chances of a favorable outcome by hiring a legal team with the necessary experience and resources. We could advocate skillfully and aggressively on your behalf to have your charges reduced or dismissed, mitigating any consequences.