Defenses to Solicitation of Prostitution in Fort Lauderdale

Prostitution is one of the oldest professions in America.  But, for Floridians, soliciting another person for sexual acts is illegal. Anyone convicted of this crime will face serious consequences that can impact both their professional and personal lives. In addition to this, a conviction can result in high fines, jail time, or both. If you have been charged, it is critical that you contact a Fort Lauderdale sex offenses lawyer who can provide the defense you need against these charges.

How is Solicitation of Prostitution Defined in Florida? 

The Florida Statutes define solicitation of prostitution as bribing, asking, encouraging, or commanding another person to engage in sexual acts. Contrary to what many people think, the person being asked or bribed does not have to be a prostitute in order for solicitation charges to apply. Additionally, no money has to be exchanged, but the solicitor must offer money for charges to apply. The sexual act also does not have to be committed, and the person being asked does not have to commit any sexual acts in order for the solicitor to face charges.

The majority of solicitation charges are classified as misdemeanor offenses. Many people face charges after soliciting an undercover police officer.

Penalties for Solicitation in Fort Lauderdale 

A first-time solicitation offense is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor, which is punishable by a maximum $500 fine, 60 days in jail, or both. A second offense is considered a first-degree misdemeanor and is punishable by a maximum $1,000 fine, up to one year in jail, or both. Any subsequent offense is classified as a third-degree felony. The most serious of these charges, the penalties include a maximum $5,000 fine, up to five years in prison, or both.

In addition to the legal consequences, there are others, as well. It can cause issues with employment, vehicle impoundment if the accused’s car was involved, and more. To avoid these consequences, it is critical that anyone charged has a strong defense.

Defenses to Solicitation Charges in Fort Lauderdale

All solicitation charges are unique and have different circumstances, so it is critical to speak to a sex offenses attorney who can advise on your case. A lawyer can advise on the best defense available, which may include:

• Entrapment: Entrapment occurs when a law enforcement officer convinces a person to commit a crime they would not commit otherwise. This is sometimes used in solicitation cases due to the fact that undercover officers are often involved.
• Mistakes: If law enforcement makes a mistake, such as stopping a vehicle without reasonable cause, this can serve as a defense.
• Rights were not upheld: If you are taken into custody and question, police must read you your Miranda rights. If not, anything you said cannot be used against you.

Our Sex Offense Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale Can Help with Your Charges

 If you have been charged with solicitation, our Fort Lauderdale sex offense lawyer at Haber Blank can advise on the best strategy to protect your freedom. Call us today at 954-767-0300 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help with your case.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0796/Sections/0796.07.html