4 FAQs about Solicitation for Prostitution Charges in Florida
In the state, it’s illegal to solicit someone for sexual acts. This can include bribing, encouraging, or commanding someone to engage in prostitution. While there are many acts that fall under this charge, one fact remains the same: Solicitation charges are not something to be taken lightly.
A conviction could lead to fines, jail time, and a permanent blemish on your criminal record, so it’s important to fight the charges while you still have a chance to do so. In this article, we answer a few of the most commonly asked questions about solicitation charges in Florida.
1. What Is Solicitation for Prostitution?
Simply put, you will be charged if you sought out or solicited someone else to engage in sexual intercourse or another so-called lewd act in exchange for money or other forms of compensation. Keep in mind that you can still be charged even if you didn’t go through with the sexual act. The officers may deduce that you intended to solicit someone for sex if, for instance, you had a prostitute enter your car or drove to a hotel where the solicited sex was set to take place.
2. What Are the Penalties for Solicitation?
In Florida, solicitation for prostitution is a second-degree misdemeanor—provided its your first violation. Penalties can include 60 days behind bars, a fine of up to $500, and a $5,000 civil penalty. A second offense could result in up to a year in jail and fines totaling $1,000 in addition to the civil penalty. Third or subsequent offenses carry even stricter penalties.
3. Can I Fight the Charges?
Yes. While the arresting officers may try to convince you that your fate is sealed, there are many strategies that can be used to fight solicitation charges. For instance, you may be able to argue that you were the victim of illegal entrapment, demonstrate that there isn’t sufficient evidence to convict you (i.e., there are no strong signs that you knowingly intended to solicit a prostitute), or you could challenge the officers’ credibility. A skilled criminal defense attorney can assess your case to determine which defenses may work best in your situation.
4. When Should I Call an Attorney?
When you’re facing serious criminal charges, it may be in your best interests to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. Not only will this ensure that your attorney has sufficient time to gather crucial evidence before it is destroyed or becomes unavailable for any reason, but a lawyer can also help guide you through proceedings, potentially helping you avoid serious mistakes or overshooting important deadlines.
Discuss Your Case with a Solicitation for Prostitution Attorney in Palm Beach Gardens
Beating a solicitation for prostitution charge often hinges on your ability to dismantle the prosecution’s evidence against you. As such, you may benefit from having a skilled attorney in your corner.
Todd A. Kawecki can assess your case as part of a free consultation and explain how he might approach building your defense. He’s a former prosecutor who understands what it takes to prevail under any circumstances. Dial 772-485-4500 or tap through to our contact form HERE to schedule a case review with a Palm Beach Gardens solicitation for prostitution attorney.