Solicitation occurs when one party asks another party to commit an illegal offense in exchange for money or something else of value. Although this offense often coincides with prostitution-related offenses, sexual services do not have to be offered in order for a person to be charged with solicitation.
No matter the circumstances of your offenses, a Weston solicitation Lawyer may be able to get you the justice you deserve. By retaining the services of one of our knowledgeable Attorneys at Leifert & Leifert, you would be provided with the representation appropriate for obtaining a positive outcome. Schedule a consultation today to get started.
When could Someone be Charged with Solicitation?
Solicitation is defined as an act related to prostitution in Florida Statute §796.07. Some of the prohibited acts include:
- Soliciting, inducing, enticing or procuring another person for some act of prostitution
- Transporting another person to engage in a sexual act for a profit
- Entering a brothel
- Purchasing a prostitute’s services
If the government accuses a defendant of soliciting an underage prostitute, the penalty could be much more severe. The court must sentence a convicted person to 66 months in prison. The court could also issue a life sentence and fine the defendant up to $10,000.
What are the Penalties of a Solicitation Conviction?
For a first-time offense, the court may punish the actor with a second-degree Misdemeanor. The criminal penalties could include 60 days in jail and up to $500 in fines. Unless the court dismisses the case or the court acquits the defendant, the court will order a civil penalty of $5,000.
If the actor had a previous conviction, the second time is a first-degree Misdemeanor. Also, the court may enforce a mandatory ten-day jail sentence. The maximum penalty is a one-year jail sentence and $1,000 fine.
A third conviction is a third-degree Felony. A Felony conviction may appear on a person’s permanent record. The court may sentence a defendant to five years and order they pay a $5,000 fine.
What are Some of the Consequences of a Solicitation Conviction?
If a court convicts a person, the judge may order that person perform up to 100 hours of community service and pay for an education program that provides information about sexual violence and human trafficking.
If the accused person used a car to carry out the solicitation offense, the judge may impound the vehicle for up to 60 days. If the defendant needs the car or alleges that another person stole the car and used it for an illegal purpose, the court may dismiss the order.
Schedule a Consultation with a Weston Solicitation Lawyer
You may not know what to do if the police have arrested you. This is the time you may want to talk with an Attorney who understands this area of law and can offer you advice. A Weston solicitation Lawyer at Leifert & Leifert can work with you to create an aggressive defense strategy and make sure you take full advantage of your rights under the law. Many people are unaware of the effects of a conviction and also do not know how to develop a defense plan. Schedule your meeting to make sure you are protected.
