Henrico County Solicitation Lawyer
The crime of solicitation is often associated with prostitution, but in reality, solicitation is defined as enticing someone else to commit a crime. When the offense is prostitution, those convicted of solicitation can face a variety of harsh penalties as well as social ostracism.
If you were charged with solicitation, your life as you know it, in addition to your freedom, may be hanging in the balance.
Fighting solicitation charges, however, is often easier said than done. Police officers often resort to tactics such as entrapment and prostitution stings to catch alleged solicitors in the act and obtain evidence.
A skilled attorney must know how to navigate the legal system and challenge the evidence gathered by law enforcement officers. Learn more by contacting a Henrico County solicitation lawyer today.
The Basics of Solicitation Charges
Unfortunately, anyone can be charged with solicitation, even if they never engaged in accepting compensation in exchange for a sexual act. If a law enforcement officer believes a person is even suggesting payment or services related to sexual activity, they can arrest them for solicitation or prostitution. Laws regarding solicitation can be frustrating and confusing, but a Henrico County solicitation lawyer may be able to help with the following cases:
- Loitering for prostitution
- In-person solicitation
- Online solicitation
- Pandering
- Operating a space used for prostitution
Solicitation charges for those who solicit minors are even more severe and can result in years behind bars and additional charges. Also, the law does not specify what type of payment or compensation must be exchanged for sexual services. Any good or service exchanged for sex can count as a payment or benefit.
Defenses Against Solicitation
There may be some gray area in a solicitation or prostitution case. Occasionally, a defendant may be unaware their behavior was interpreted as a solicitation, or they may have found themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. Unfortunately, arresting officers often attempt to get detained individuals to self-incriminate themselves, an illegal practice known as entrapment.
An attorney may also be able to point out any circumstantial evidence submitted by the prosecution. Just because a person is charged with solicitation does not mean they are automatically guilty.
It is also possible for a person engaging in prostitution to misinterpret the actions or speech of an alleged solicitor. This can create legal problems for an innocent person.
Legal Consequences of a Solicitation Conviction
Solicitation is a serious crime, especially for those who already have criminal records. A solicitation conviction can have a significant impact on the life of a person, and once the conviction becomes public, it can be a source of embarrassment and shame. A conviction can also result in the following consequences:
- Imprisonment
- Community service
- Fines
- Probation
- Loss of job
Many companies have the right to terminate employees if they do not feel they are representing the company in a professional light. It is also common for those convicted of solicitation to experience marital problems and a loss of standing in their communities.
Discuss Your Case with a Henrico County Solicitation Attorney Today
If you were charged with solicitation, you might be feeling embarrassed and confused. Your feelings are valid, but you must remember, there may be a way to fight back and clear your name. A solicitation conviction can hang over your head for the rest of your life, so it is imperative you take your charges seriously.
Discuss your case with a Henrico County solicitation lawyer now if you are ready to talk.
