Most people understand that prostitution is illegal. However, there is often confusion around other sex crime charges, such as solicitation. Solicitation can carry serious penalties, some of which could upend your entire life. You should never leave your future to chance when it comes to matters involving criminal law.
Now is the time to work on building the best defense possible against your charges. Our expert Wellington solicitation lawyers at Rossen Law Firm can start constructing a strategic defense right away. Having a top defense attorney handling your defense from the very beginning is essential to seek the best possible resolution for your case.
Solicitation is defined under Florida Statute § 796.07 as giving or receiving of one’s body for sexual activity for hire. Purchasing sexual acts and persuading someone to engage in prostitution are both considered solicitation. There is a common misconception that money must be exchanged in order for solicitation, but this is not the case. Trading anything of value for a sexual act is illegal, as a Wellington solicitation attorney can explain in more detail.
It is important to understand that in order to achieve a conviction for solicitation, the prosecution does not need to show that a sexual act occurred. The prosecution also does not need to prove that payment was exchanged as means of facilitating sex.
In other words, even if no money or other form of aid was exchanged, simply showing that the accused sought out sexual acts and influenced someone to carry out prostitution can lead to a conviction for solicitation.
The consequences of a solicitation charge can vary widely and are impacted by multiple factors. For example, a first-time alleged offender facing a charge of solicitation of prostitution could face up to 12 months in jail if convicted, but up to five years in jail for a subsequent conviction. A conviction can also come with the requirement to pay considerable fines, complete community service, and other penalties.
It is imperative to work with an award-winning Wellington attorney who can not only construct a tailored defense to a solicitation charge but also identify any weaknesses or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case. At Rossen Law Firm, we have handled numerous solicitation cases, and we know how to build a tailored defense.
There are many defenses that a solicitation attorney in Wellington could wield in building an effective case. Of course, asserting innocence can be a plausible defense. It is also important to understand that the prosecutor’s office cannot reach a conviction unless they can prove that the element of intent was present.
If the defendant did not intend to procure sex or otherwise induce prostitution, this threshold would not be met. Sometimes, a solicitation charge can stem from a case of mistaken identity. The exact nature of the defense against a solicitation charge will revolve heavily around the circumstances leading to the charge, which our lawyers can go over during an initial strategy session.
If you have been charged with a solicitation offense, you may feel frightened, overwhelmed, and uncertain about what your legal rights and options are. Our expert Wellington solicitation lawyers can help you better understand your situation and work with you to build a strong defense.
We can defend your interests and provide the unwavering advocacy you require from day one. Contact us at Rossen Law Firm to get started on your case.
Rossen Law Firm’s legal team understands what’s at stake when you’re charged with a crime in South Florida. We’re committed to defending you and protecting your rights. Our legal team is ready to create a customized strategy for your case to fight for the best possible outcome. We handle Criminal, DUI, Federal, Domestic Violence, Marchman Act & Baker Act cases, and more.
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