The consequences of a conviction for prostitution could be surprisingly severe, and the social stigma surrounding a conviction of this kind—in addition to the potential penalties—can be difficult to bear. If you or someone you love is facing such a charge, a Pompano Beach prostitution lawyer might be able to help.
After an arrest or charge, you might be overwhelmed and worried about the effect that a conviction might have on the rest of your life. Thankfully, you do not have to navigate the legal system on your own. Our defense attorneys from the Law Offices of Leifert & Leifert could guide you through every step of the process and help pursue a positive outcome on your behalf.
Penalties for Prostitution
Naturally, the penalties for prostitution vary based on the circumstances of a charge, as well as any criminal history a Defendant might have. Typically, however, charges for prostitution are classified as a second-degree Misdemeanor for the first violation, a first-degree Misdemeanor for a second violation, and a third-degree Felony for a third violation.
For a first conviction, an individual may face up to 60 days in jail and a fine not exceeding $500. A second offense could result in a sentence of up to one year in prison, as well as a fine of up to $1,000. For a third offense or any subsequent offense, an individual may face five years in jail and a fine as high as $5,000.
Beyond this, a conviction could also mean time spent on probation. A Leifert & Leifert attorney could help anyone charged with prostitution in Pompano Beach to understand the possible penalties they face and work to build a persuasive case in their defense.
What Constitutes Prostitution in Pompano Beach?
While many people think of prostitution as the exchange of money for sexual services, the statutory definition in Florida encompasses additional behavior, as outlined in Florida Statutes §796.07. For example, keeping a room or building for the specific purpose of lewd acts may result in a prostitution charge, as could transporting someone with the intent to commit prostitution.
It is important to note, too, that you do not have to actually exchange money for sexual activity to be charged. Merely offering to provide sexual services for money could be sufficient.
What are Some Possible Defenses Against Prostitution Charges?
Despite the aforementioned possibility of a charge for offered sexual activity, if there is no real agreement to exchange money for sexual services, you may have a statutory defense available to you. For example, if an alleged agreement to pay for sexual services was a joke or misunderstanding rather than an actual intent to engage in prostitution, it may be possible to contest an ensuing charge under these grounds.
Beyond this, some cases involve undercover Law Enforcement Officers luring an individual into an agreement to exchange sexual services for money. This is known as entrapment and might serve as the basis for a defense, depending on the situation. It may be helpful to consult with a Pompano Beach prostitution lawyer to assess the unique circumstances of your charge.
Call a Pompano Beach Prostitution Attorney Today
If you were charged with prostitution, it might be overwhelming to even consider the potential penalties and consequences. However, it might not be too late to begin building a defense against your charges with the help of a Pompano Beach prostitution lawyer.
An attorney from the Law Offices of Leifert & Leifert could stand by your side through each step of the legal process. For a free consultation and case review, reach out to one of our seasoned legal advocates today.
