Understanding the Solicitation of Prostitution Laws in Pinellas County

The leading sex crimes attorneys in Clearwater with The Law Office of Marc N. Pelletier have combined decades of experience in working on cases involving solicitation of prostitution, and have the strategies to work toward a potential reduction or dismissal of charges.

Definition and Legal Framework

In Pinellas County, the solicitation of prostitution is a criminal offense. Solicitation generally refers to the act of offering, agreeing, or engaging in sexual activity for compensation. Prostitution-related offenses include both the act of engaging in prostitution and the solicitation of prostitution but, specifically, solicitation involves any person who solicits, induces, entices, or procures another person to engage in prostitution, lewdness, or assignation.

Penalties and Consequences

The penalties for solicitation of prostitution in Pinellas County depend on several factors, including whether it is a first-time offense, if there are aggravating circumstances, and whether you have a strong Clearwater sex crime defense attorney

A first offense is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail, 12 months of probation, and a whopper fine of $5000. A second offense is, however, considered a third-degree felony, which can result in up to five years in prison, and five years of probation.  Additional penalties that are required upon conviction include 100 hours of community service, completing an educational course relating to the harms of commercial sex and human trafficking, and the possible impoundment of the vehicle used in the offense.

Legal Defenses and Strategies

When facing solicitation of prostitution charges in Pinellas County, having a strong legal defense from your Clearwater sex crimes attorney with The Law Office of Marc N. Pelletier can make the difference between a favorable outcome and one that isn’t. 

Misidentification

If you were wrongly identified or mistaken for another individual involved in solicitation, this could be a basis for defense. This strategy may involve providing surveillance footage, witness testimony, or other evidence to establish your true identity and evidence of an alibi.

Entrapment

This defense is applicable if law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you would not have otherwise committed. It must be shown that you were persuaded or coerced by police officers or undercover agents, rather than willingly participating in solicitation of your own accord.

Detrimental Impact on Personal and Professional Life

A conviction for solicitation of prostitution can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s personal and professional life. Beyond the immediate legal consequences, a conviction can result in damage to your reputation, employment issues, and the loss of professional licenses and educational opportunities. If you or someone you know is dealing with a solicitation charge, immediately seeking experienced legal counsel from The Law Office of Marc N. Pelletier is extremely important.

Receive the strongest defense possible from one of our Clearwater sex crime defense attorneys. To request a complimentary case consultation, call our office today at (727) 493-9386.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.