Fight Your Charges with a St. Petersburg Sex Crimes Attorney

The solicitation of prostitution is any attempt or act of procuring the services of a prostitute (a person who exchanges sex or sexual acts for money.) A St. Petersburg criminal defense attorney experienced in defending individuals accused of solicitation of prostitution is a necessary step in order to avoid a conviction. You may have been the victim of a police sting and are wondering if it might qualify as entrapment. Unfortunately, not all police stings will be deemed entrapment, but the experienced lawyers at LeavenLaw can help determine what your best defense will be.

Definition of & Penalties for Solicitation of Prostitution

Whether or not the services were actually purchased, a person can be charged with solicitation. Simply the act of discussing or agreeing to pricing or specifics of a transaction with a prostitute, or attempting to procure sexual acts for money, is illegal.

Solicitation of prostitution is a serious accusation that can carry severe consequences per Florida law:

• A first offense is usually charged as a misdemeanor with a prison sentence of up to one year.
• A third or subsequent offense is charged as a felony and can carry a prison sentence of over one year.

Regardless of prison sentences, the reputation of the accused is on the line. Any sex offense trial may become public knowledge, meaning the accused individual’s personal and professional acquaintances and family members will know of their supposed indiscretion.