Orlando Prostitution and Solicitation Attorneys

In the state of Florida, prostitution and soliciting prostitution are very serious offenses; those convicted with be punished harshly. Under Florida Statute 796.07(1)(e) it is unlawful for an individual to commit, offer to commit, or engage in prostitution, lewdness, or assignation. Florida Statute 796.07(1)(f) makes it unlawful for another person to solicit or entice someone to commit these acts. At Adams, Luka, & Benton, our Orlando sex crime defense attorneys are dedicated to providing those who have been accused of these sexual offenses with solid, effective legal guidance and representation. Whether you are under investigation or have been charged, we urge you to contact us immediately.

Soliciting prostitution may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on your unique situation. Whether you are accused of offering your services as a prostitute, or soliciting someone else to commit prostitution, a conviction will have a devastating impact on your career, reputation, and personal life. Law enforcement officials often set up prostitution stings; an undercover police officer may have set you up, resulting in a solicitation or prostitution charge. Regardless of how it happened, you are likely both frightened and humiliated. Our Orlando prostitution and solicitation lawyers are compassionate and dedicated to protecting your privacy. We use great discretion when involved in these types of sensitive issues.

Unfortunately, police often participate in "sting" operations involving prostitution rings or escort services. Essentially, innocent people can be enticed into doing something unlawful they did not intend to do, which could be considered entrapment in some situations.

There are many defense tactics which may prove successful in your case. depending on the facts, strength of the evidence, and other factors. We will thoroughly discuss your case with you, identify all defenses which may be effective in your situation, and do whatever it takes to secure an acquittal.

You have constitutional rights which must be protected. These rights include a guarantee that all individuals are free from unlawful or illegal conduct by police. In order to search your person, property, or vehicle, or to stop you or perform a search (pat down) of your person, police must have a lawful basis or reasonable suspicion. If police engage in illegal conduct, it may be possible to suppress evidence or any statements you made following the unlawful police conduct.

In addition, if an undercover sting operation was performed, it may be possible to challenge evidence presented in court. As seasoned Orlando prostitution and solicitation attorneys, we will investigate:

• Police behavior - could police have coerced or convinced you to participate in an act or say something you would not normally do or say?
• Tape technique and quality - is the quality of the tape sufficient to clearly hear what was said, and the volume loud enough to be certain of what both parties said?
• Legality of initial contact
• Arrest - did the officer clearly explain your legal rights?
• Actions of officer - did the same officer who was a "decoy" in a sting operation write up the police report?

There are dozens of questions that must be answered; people's legal rights are violated every day by police. It is critical to work with a criminal defense lawyer who will work diligently to devise the strongest possible defense strategy.

The penalties an individual will face for prostitution or solicitation depend on prior criminal convictions and whether the crime is a first, second, or third/subsequent offense. If convicted for a first offense, you will potentially face a maximum of 60 days in jail, a mandatory fine or penalty of $5,000, and a permanent criminal record.

A second offense is a first degree misdemeanor, punishable by substantial fines and jail time of up to one (1) year.

A third or subsequent offense will result in a third degree felony charge, which will leave the defendant facing a maximum of five (5) years in prison, along with monetary fines, possible drug treatment, supervised probation, and mandatory testing for HIV or STD's (sexually transmitted diseases).

As is evident from the above information, prostitution and solicitation are serious criminal offenses in the state of Florida. Whether you have been wrongly accused or feel your legal rights were violated, it is imperative that you consult with a lawyer who is skilled, experienced, and aggressive. At Adams, Luka, & Benton, preventing a conviction is our number one priority. Contact us now for a no-cost consultation at (407) 872-0307 or (352) 787-2101.