Prostitution is the illegal act of exchanging something of value for a sexual favor. The Government can punish anyone who is involved with some act of prostitution, and a conviction could lead to years in jail, probation, or hefty fines.
If you were charged with prostitution, consider contacting a Greenacres prostitution lawyer at your earliest chance. One of our knowledgeable attorneys at Leifert & Leifert could provide advice about your legal options and help you build a strong defense.
What is Prostitution?
Under Florida Statutes §796.07, prostitution is the “giving or receiving of a body for sexual activity” in exchange for money or drugs. It does not include any sexual acts between married persons. Sexual activity includes penetration of or by a sexual organ or touching a sexual body part for pleasure. It excludes any touching performed for a medical reason.
As a Greenacres prostitution lawyer may advise, state law also prohibits individuals from engaging in the following behaviors:
- Having any involvement with a house of prostitution or some building used for making plans to engage in sex for hire
- Helping someone else hire a prostitute
- Allowing a person to use a structure for prostitution
- Transporting someone for engaging in sex for hire
- Promising to sell sexual favors for money
- Asking someone else to engage in prostitution
- Entering or stay in a house of prostitution
- Having any involvement with any act of prostitution
Potential Penalties
If you are arrested for prostitution, the Government may introduce evidence of your character or propensity to be involved with some act of prostitution. If the arrest resulted from an undercover police operation, Law Enforcement may testify that you requested sex from the officer in exchange for money.
How Serious is a First-Time Prostitution Offense?
A first-time prostitution conviction is considered a second-degree Misdemeanor. The Court may send you to jail for up to 60 days and order you to pay a fine of up to $500.
Second Violation
A second prostitution offense is a first-degree Misdemeanor. Penalties may include up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Third Violation
If you appear before the Court for prostitution a third time, you may face third-degree Felony charges. The Courts may send you to prison for up to five years and order you pay a fine of up to $5,000. The Government may also offer to admit you to a pre-Trial intervention program or a substance abuse treatment program.
Get Help from a Greenacres Prostitution Attorney
If Law Enforcement arrested you for prostitution, you may be worried about your future. Prostitution charges could cause serious damage to your personal and professional reputation, in addition to the harsh statutory penalties. Fortunately, a skilled Greenacres prostitution lawyer is available to help.
One of our attorneys at Leifert & Leifert could discuss your situation and provide advice about your legal options. After a careful analysis of the evidence against you, they could craft a credible defense tailored to the facts of your case. To schedule a consultation, reach out to our attorneys today.
