People accused of solicitation of prostitution and other sex crimes face serious consequences if convicted, including extensive jail time and large fines. Solicitation and prostitution are types of sex crimes that involve the exchange of sexual acts for money, compensation, or gifts. It is illegal for people of any age to agree to or engage in sex for money. People may also face solicitation charges for soliciting sex from a prostitute or for supporting or patronizing a prostitute, regardless of whether or not sexual activity actually took place. In the state of California, both the prostitute and the patron, sometimes referred to as a John, can be charged with these crimes.

Talking to a Los Angeles prostitution attorney about your case is essential if you are to have the best opportunity of avoiding a conviction for solicitation or any related offense. At The Chahine Law Firm our attorneys are highly experienced in representing clients who are facing sex crime charges. We understand that these cases are usually more delicate in nature and that even allegations can begin to damage a person's reputation, career and employment. This is why we strive to provide only the highest quality legal counsel every step of the way.

The Crime of Solicitation of Prostitution

The consequences of being charged with disorderly conduct or Solicitation of Prostitution can be very serious. Solicitation does not require that the defendant actually commit a sexual act, simply that he intends to, and requests, a sexual act from another person. Under California Penal Code section 647, a person can b e guilty of solicitation when he or she agrees to engage in an act of prostitution and then takes an action in furtherance of the sex act, such as exchanging cash.

It is a crime throughout California to offer, accept or exchange sexual acts for money. If you are accused of offering sex acts to another person or even of offering money in exchange for sexual acts, you will face serious criminal charges that can have devastating effects on your life.

The Crime of Prostitution

Prostitution is defined as engaging in sexual intercourse or lewd acts in exchange for money or other compensation. It is considered a crime in the state of California, and those convicted of prostitution will face harsh punishment under our state’s laws. It is important to know that a person need not be caught exchanging sex for money in order to be arrested for prostitution charges. According to California law, a person can be arrested for prostitution if involved in several situations, including, but not limited to:

• Loitering with intent to commit prostitution.
• Repeatedly beckoning to, waving at, or engaging in conversation with drivers, passengers or passers-by indicative of soliciting prostitution.
• Collecting or receiving money or compensation earned through prostitution.
• Agreeing to engage in prostitution when compensation for sex has been offered.

In addition, if an individual solicits customers for prostitution services or recruits prostitutes for hire, they can be charged with Pimping and Pandering under the California Penal Code. Individuals charged with Pimping and Pandering often face more severe consequences if convicted of the crime.

Legal Penalties for Solicitation and Prostitution

A Solicitation of Prostitution or Prostitution conviction can lead to serious legal penalties. The penalties and consequences for these types of sexual offenses can be serious and include the following:

• County Jail Sentence (up to one year)
• Community service
• Court-Ordered Counseling
• Probation;
• Fines and Fees
• Cal-Trans
• AIDS testing
• Loss of employment

The Defense of Entrapment

Entrapment may be a legal defense to a sex crime and often arises as a potential legal defense in “sting” operations. It often occurs when an undercover law enforcement agent induces a person to commit an offense, which the person would otherwise have been unlikely to commit. The defendant essentially argues that he or she would not have committed the crime had the undercover agent not induced him or her to act in the manner the prosecutor claims he or she acted. The key in issue in raising this defense is whether the defendant committed acts in furtherance of the crime of prostitution, not merely whether the law enforcements officers were present and conducted a sting operation to arrest people for soliciting prostitution. A thorough review of the events that transpired and an independent investigation are critical in these types of cases.

Los Angeles Solicitation / Prostitution / Pandering Defense Attorneys

A conviction for Solicitation of Prostitution, Pimping and Pandering, or Prostitution can be extremely damaging to your life, adversely affecting your job, family, friends and relationships. If you have been charged with solicitation or prostitution charge in the Los Angeles and surrounding Southern California area, you need qualified and experienced legal counsel on your side. The attorneys at The Chahine Law Firm will carefully analyze the evidence involving the charges, analyze the actions of law enforcement officials and build a strong defense on your behalf. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.