Miami, FL Prostitution & Solicitation Attorney

Compassionate Lawyer Helping Defend Against Charges of Prostitution or Solicitation in Miami

People who are accused of engaging in prostitution will face a variety of serious penalties. Criminal convictions can lead to significant fines and the possibility of jail time, and these charges can also destroy a person's reputation, lead to the loss of their job, and affect their relationships with family and friends. These charges may apply for those who are arrested for engaging in prostitution or soliciting another person for sexual services. Understanding how to respond to charges of prostitution or solicitation can be difficult, which is why it is so important to work with a criminal defense lawyer.

The Hoffman Firm provides representation for people who are facing prostitution charges in Miami and other parts of Florida. Our attorney understands the serious nature of sex crimes, and he can provide critical legal assistance by reviewing the circumstances of the arrest, identifying legal violations, and challenging the prosecution's evidence. Our goal is to have charges dismissed or reduced while minimizing the ways our clients' lives will be affected.

Prostitution

A person may face charges of prostitution if they are accused of offering, agreeing to, or engaging in sex acts in exchange for payment or benefits. A first offense of prostitution is a second-degree misdemeanor, which may result in a sentence of up to two months in jail and/or a $500 fine. A second offense is a first-degree misdemeanor, with the possibility of as much as one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. A third or any additional offense is a third-degree felony, and a person could be sentenced to a maximum of five years in prison and fined up to $5,000.

Solicitation of Prostitution

A person may be charged with solicitation if they are accused of offering or agreeing to pay someone for sexual acts, including sexual intercourse or other lewd acts that are considered to be obscene or indecent. Making an appointment to engage in sexual acts is known as assignation, and it is also considered to be solicitation. A first offense of solicitation will typically result in first-degree misdemeanor charges, and a second offense will be charged as a third-degree felony. Any subsequent offenses will be charged as second-degree felonies, and a person could face a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. Florida law also imposes a mandatory civil penalty of $5,000 for people who are convicted of solicitation.

Pimping or Promoting Prostitution

Charges for promoting or facilitating prostitution carry more severe penalties. These offenses involve organizing, profiting from, or coercing another person into engaging in prostitution. A person who receives money from another person's prostitution may be charged with a second-degree felony for a first offense. A second or subsequent offense is a first-degree felony that could result in a prison sentence of up to 30 years.

Forcing or coercing someone into prostitution is a third-degree felony. Other related offenses may include renting a room, building, or vehicle to be used for prostitution, which is a first-degree misdemeanor for a first offense or a third-degree felony for a second offense.

Human Trafficking-Related Charges

If a person is accused of soliciting, recruiting, or transporting someone who will be involved in prostitution, the penalties they will face are significantly more severe. Human trafficking laws may apply in these situations. Human trafficking of an adult for the purposes of commercial sexual activity is a first-degree felony. In situations involving trafficking of a child under the age of 18, a person may be charged with a life felony and sentenced to life in prison.

Defending Against Prostitution and Solicitation Charges

A strong defense strategy is essential for anyone facing prostitution-related charges. Our lawyer will evaluate a case and determine the best legal approach, which may include:

• Entrapment: Law enforcement officers may use undercover operations to arrest people for solicitation. If an officer pressured or induced someone into committing an offense they would not have otherwise committed, an entrapment defense may apply.
• Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove that there was an agreement for a sexual act in exchange for compensation occurred. If there is insufficient or unreliable evidence, the charges may be dismissed.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, a person may be falsely accused due to mistaken identity or miscommunications in online interactions. Our attorney can cast doubt on whether a person intended to commit the offense in question.

Contact Our Miami, Florida Prostitution and Solicitation Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with prostitution, solicitation, or a related offense in Miami, you need an experienced defense attorney who will protect your rights and fight to prevent a conviction. At The Hoffman Firm, we will provide you with an aggressive defense and work to help you avoid severe penalties. Contact us and set up a free consultation by calling our office at 305-249-0090.