South Florida Prostitution Lawyer

While most people intuitively understand what prostitution is, state law expands the definition to include several activities that offer any property, including money, in exchange for a sex act. In addition, merely arranging for this exchange is illegal and may result in an arrest and prosecution.

Our expert sex crimes attorneys at Rossen Law Firm represent clients who have been charged under the state’s prostitution laws. A board-certified South Florida prostitution lawyer, from Rossen Law Firm, can fight to protect not only your freedom but also your reputation in the community.

The Laws Against Prostitution in Fort Lauderdale

Florida Statute § 796.07 provides many examples of illegal activity that fall under the umbrella of prostitution. Generally, the law considers it illegal to have sex with another person in exchange for money. However, other sections of the statute expand the list of illegal activities related to prostitution. These include:

• Maintaining a location for the purpose of prostitution
• Offering to secure a location or person for the purpose of an act of prostitution
• Agreeing to allow a person to remain in a location for the purpose of committing an act of prostitution

You could be charged with prostitution or a related crime if you allegedly have any role in an exchange of money for sex. Furthermore, attempting to participate or agreeing to participate in these arrangements is also illegal—many prostitution cases go to court without any physical contact taking place at all. Our South Florida prostitution attorneys can provide more information about the state’s complex prostitution laws.

What Are the Penalties for Prostitution?

Prostitution is a criminal offense under state law. How severe the penalty for a conviction is will depend on the exact nature of the offense as well as your criminal record.

A first prostitution offense is a second-degree misdemeanor under most circumstances. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 60 days in jail, six months probation, and a $500 fine. A second conviction is a first-degree misdemeanor; a court may impose a sentence of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. All subsequent convictions are third-degree felonies, carrying a maximum prison sentence of five years and fines of up to $5,000. Enhanced penalties may be imposed upon those who entice others to participate in a prostitution scheme.

Effectively fighting allegations related to prostitution means having the best Fort Lauderdale attorney in your corner. Our expert lawyers can challenge whether there was an agreement to exchange sex for property—including money—or introduce evidence that a sexual encounter did not have an economic motivation.

Reach Out to a South Florida Prostitution Attorney Immediately

Being charged with a crime involving prostitution is a very serious matter. Even people who are charged with aiding a prostitution enterprise face jail time and stiff fines upon conviction. Your freedom and your reputation could be on the line without a strong defense.

When facing accusations of any crime related to prostitution, it is crucial to get legal help. Our tenacious team at Rossen Law Firm can work to analyze the prosecutor’s case, talk to witnesses, and provide you with a thorough and vigorous defense. We are here for you! Contact the office today to set up your free strategy session with a Fort Lauderdale prostitution lawyer.