Being accused of prostitution can be extremely upsetting, especially since the offense carries serious penalties in Virginia. You may be concerned about how such allegations may affect your reputation and your future opportunities for employment, education, financial assistance or community engagement. While these are valid concerns, an experienced Arlington prostitution lawyer can help you fight these charges and work to clear your name.
If you have been charged with engaging in prostitution, you are not alone. In 2010, there were tens of thousands of people were charged with prostitution-related offenses in the U.S., but many avoided conviction. Being accused of prostitution does not necessarily mean you will ultimately be found guilty of the offense. Having a qualified attorney in Arlington on your side is a proactive step in combating unfair allegations and protecting your record.
Prostitution is defined under Virginia Code 18.2-346 as offering to perform sexual acts for money or its equivalent – like performing sex acts for drugs – and then following up the offer by performing the act or engaging in any substantial act in furtherance of it. The offense of prostitution is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2500.
In Virginia, there are a few other prostitution-related offenses that may accompany prostitution charges, depending on the circumstances, and your Arlington prostitution lawyer can explain whether any additional charges may apply in your case. A person accused of engaging in prostitution might also face charges for keeping, visiting or living in a bawdy place used for immoral purposes, aiding prostitution or illicit sexual intercourse by transporting a person or providing information in order to obtain prostitution or commercial sexual services, or using vehicles to promote prostitution.
In addition, any person who takes, detains or confines another person for the purpose of prostitution, or receives money for procuring prostitution services, or from the earnings of prostitution, has committed a Class 4 felony punishable by two to ten years in prison and $100,000 in fines. While these charges are typically reserved for those engaged in sex trafficking or “pimping,” it is possible that persons accused of prostitution itself could also face these charges, depending on the situation and their apparent involvement with larger commercial sex operations or recruitment for these type of organizations. If you find yourself charged with multiple prostitution-related offenses, it is crucial that you work with an experienced Arlington prostitution lawyer.
Regardless of what type of prostitution-related charges you have been accused of, your Arlington prostitution attorney can help. In many cases, persons charged with prostitution have themselves been victimized and deserve especially compassionate treatment.
Our experienced prostitution lawyers in Arlington provide a strong, judgment-free defense, understanding that many prostitution charges are unfair. Your Arlington prostitution lawyer with our firm will work hard to present the facts to the court, demonstrating why the charges against you should be dismissed or reduced.