Encouraging or persuading another person to commit a criminal act is illegal, and those who are suspected of doing so could be charged with solicitation. This is a serious criminal offense that may result in severe consequences, so if you were accused of solicitation, you should seek the counsel of a Lake Worth solicitation lawyer. With the aid of a skilled defense attorney at Leifert & Leifert, you could rest assured knowing you have a dedicated and experienced ally on your side.
What is Solicitation?
While the word “solicitation” is usually associated with prostitution, anyone could technically be charged with this offense. Simply put, solicitation is the act of encouraging or coercing another person to commit a crime. It is important to note that it is not necessary for the individual who was allegedly solicited to actually commit a criminal act for the solicitor to be charged with and convicted of a crime.
The specifics of a solicitation charge in Lake Worth can be complex, requiring an understanding of Florida state law and its many nuances. For example, beyond a direct suggestion of a criminal act, it is also possible to be charged with solicitation if you own a building or property that is known to attract individuals who engage in prostitution, or who attempt to solicit prostitutes. Fortunately, a knowledgeable Lake Worth solicitation attorney could help explain the law as it relates to your particular case.
The Steep Price of a Solicitation Conviction
Potential punishments for a solicitation charge are outlined in Florida Statutes §796.07, which states that those convicted could face a $5,000 fine and up to 60 days in jail. Additionally, individuals with prior convictions could face harsher penalties than a first-time offender, and the stigma of a solicitation conviction might last for years after a sentence is served. Other possible penalties for a conviction include:
- Community service
- Probation
- Mandatory screening for sexually-transmitted diseases
- Vehicle impoundment, if a vehicle was confiscated during arrest
Unfortunately, it may also be remarkably difficult to obtain housing or employment with a criminal record. You may also lose your right to vote or own firearms if you have a felony charge on your record.
Possible Defenses in Lake Worth
There are numerous defenses that you or your Lake Worth solicitation lawyer could employ to defend against an accusation of solicitation. Often, these center around bringing the validity of a case into question.
For example, if the police did not read you your Miranda Rights during or after your arrest, anything you said to them may not be admissible in a court. More directly relevant to solicitation charges in particular, if an Officer enticed you to commit a crime you otherwise would not have committed, this may qualify as entrapment, which could invalidate certain pieces of evidence or an entire case against you.
How a Lake Worth Solicitation Attorney Could Help
If you are facing charges of solicitation, it could be beneficial to consider your legal options. Facing a criminal Court alone can be daunting and overwhelming, as can trying to navigate the complexities of the legal system by yourself.
However, with guidance from a skilled Lake Worth solicitation lawyer, you could maximize your chances of a favorable outcome. Reach out to an attorney from Leifert & Leifert today for a free consultation and case review.
