If you have been charged with a prostitution-related offense, your reputation and freedom could be at stake. It is best if you consult with an experienced Santa Ana prostitution lawyer immediately to have the best chances at a positive outcome with minimal consequences. Our criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry have decades of experience fighting these charges. They could advocate aggressively on your behalf to protect your best interests.
What to Expect with Prostitution Charges
According to California Penal Code 647b PC, it is unlawful to solicit, agree to engage in, or engage in a sexual act for money or other compensation. Prostitution is a misdemeanor in California, but it is a “priorable offense,” which means the penalties increase considerably with each conviction. For a first-time conviction, the defendant may receive a sentence of a maximum of six months in jail, probation, and a maximum fine of $1,000. A second conviction carries a sentence of a minimum of 45 days in jail, probation, and another $1,000 fine. For a third or subsequent conviction, the sentence is a minimum of 90 days in jail, probation, and a $1,000 fine. An attorney in Santa Ana could explain someone’s prostitution charges to them and what they should expect from the legal battle ahead.
Pimping
Pimping is described under California Penal Code 266h PC as knowingly receiving money exchanged during the act of prostitution or taking money or other compensation for soliciting prostitution on behalf of a prostitute. Pimping is a felony in California and carries penalties of three, four, or six years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. If the act involved someone under the age of 18, the penalties would increase significantly.
Legal Defenses for Prostitution
A large number of prostitution charges are a result of undercover stings by law enforcement. One of the more common defenses to these charges is entrapment by police. Entrapment occurs when law enforcement coerces you to commit a crime you would not have otherwise committed. Many defense strategies also center around a lack of intent since it is typically the most challenging element to prove in these cases. Insufficient evidence or a lack of reliable evidence may also prove to be an effective defense. Often, the witness’s credibility is in question and a lack of credible evidence could be a solid argument. Other defenses include mistake of fact and illegal search and seizure. Ultimately, the appropriate defense depends on the specifics of your case. One of our skilled attorneys in Santa Ana could thoroughly investigate the alleged incident and review the police report to determine which prostitution defense would be most effective.
Contact an Experienced Santa Ana Prostitution Attorney Today
Simply being accused of a sex crime can have devastating effects. Even if you are acquitted, you can still be embarrassed and hurt by the lasting impact of a criminal accusation. If you have been accused of exchanging sex for money or another form of compensation, we urge you to consult with our experienced Santa Ana prostitution lawyers as soon as possible.
At the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry, our legal team understands the fear and humiliation associated with these charges. You do not have to go through this situation alone. Our compassionate defense attorneys could be there every step of the way to provide support and guidance. We fight aggressively to have your side of the story heard. Contact our office today for a free, confidential case analysis.