Panama City Beach Prostitution Defense Attorney
Defending Clients Facing Sex Crimes in Bay County
If you have been charged with prostitution in Florida, you need to understand your rights as someone who has been criminally accused of a serious sex crime. Legally speaking, prostitution is considered offering or agreeing to engage in a sexual act for any goods, service, or currency.
Regardless of your alleged role in the prostitution – the prostitute, pimp, or consumer – you can be arrested and put up against serious criminal penalties.
Are you facing a prostitution charge in Florida? Call Albert J. Sauline, III Attorney at Law today at (850) 250-3426 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our Panama City beach prostitution defense lawyer!
Understanding Prostitution Charges and Penalties in Florida
In many cases, first-time prostitution offenses are considered misdemeanors with varying consequences, with up to 60 days in jail, up to six months of probation, up to $500 fines, or both. However, as it is considered a sex crime, there are ways the violation could escalate to felonies in the eyes of the law, such as if it was a third offense of Prostitution (i.e. two prior prostitution convictions), making it a third degree felony, or if you were to pursue sexual services from an individual under the age of 18, making it a Second Degree Felony.
Legal Definitions and Categories: In Florida, prostitution charges can encompass a range of offenses, including:
- Prostitution: Engaging in, or agreeing to engage in, a sexual act for money or other goods.
- Solicitation: Requesting or encouraging someone to engage in sexual acts in exchange for money or other compensation.
- Pimping/Pandering: Facilitating or profiting from the prostitution of another person.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony: While first-time prostitution offenses are generally classified as misdemeanors, subsequent offenses or related charges can lead to more severe felony charges:
- Third-Degree Felony: Includes repeat offenses (third or more) or soliciting a prostitute who is a minor (under 18).
- Second-Degree Felony: Includes engaging in prostitution with someone under 18.
Additional Penalties and Consequences:
- Civil Penalties: In addition to criminal penalties, individuals convicted of prostitution-related offenses may face civil fines or asset forfeiture, depending on the circumstances.
- Sex Offender Registration: Felony convictions often require mandatory registration as a sex offender, which has long-term implications for personal and professional life.
- Employment and Housing Challenges: A criminal record can significantly impact career prospects and housing opportunities, with potential disqualification from certain jobs or professional licenses.
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