A person can be charged with prostitution in Fredericksburg if it appears that money or anything else of value was exchanged for the provision of sexual activity. A conviction for prostitution could result in a substantial fine, confinement, or both.
Let a Fredericksburg prostitution lawyer provide you with critical legal representation if you are facing criminal charges for prostitution. A seasoned criminal defense attorney could also assist individuals facing charges for other offenses related to prostitution, including assignation, solicitation, and owning or operating a brothel.
Laws regarding offenses involving prostitution in Fredericksburg are codified under Title 18.2 of the Code of Virginia under chapter 8 on crimes involving morals and decency. The offense of prostitution is specifically defined in Virginia Code §18.2-346 as committing or offering to commit any sexual activity for money or its equivalent. Even if no sexual acts are performed, the act of offering to provide sexual activity for money could result in criminal charges for prostitution.
Additional offenses related to prostitution are also addressed in the state criminal code. For example, offering another individual money or its equivalent to engaging in a sexual activity constitutes a solicitation of prostitution under the law and is a chargeable criminal offense. An individual can be charged with solicitation even if the person being solicited does not agree to engage in prostitution and never accepts any money or engages in sexual activity.
Other prohibited offenses related to prostitution that could result in criminal charges and prosecution include assignation, aiding prostitution, using vehicles to promote prostitution, promoting travel for prostitution, and keeping a place where prostitution or assignation can occur. A qualified Fredericksburg prostitution attorney could determine the best defense based on what specific offense a defendant has been accused of committing.
Prostitution is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia, the penalties for which may include a fine up to $2,500, up to 12 months in jail, or both. Several other offenses related to prostitution are also Class 1 misdemeanors that carry the same penalties upon conviction, including solicitation, assignation, using a vehicle to promote prostitution, promoting travel for prostitution, and maintaining a brothel.
Misdemeanor prostitution offenses are elevated to felonies if the offense involves a minor. For example, committing assignation or aiding in prostitution with a person under 18 years of age is a Class 6 felony punishable by one to five years incarceration and a fine up to $2,500. A lawyer in Fredericksburg familiar with state laws regarding prostitution offenses could further explain the penalties associated with a specific offense.
Prostitution charges can—and often do—result in serious legal consequences. Fortunately, you do not have to face charges of prostitution alone. Once retained, a dedicated attorney could work tirelessly to secure an optimal outcome in your case.
In addition to having someone on your side fighting for your best interests, legal counsel could safeguard your constitutional rights. Speak with a Fredericksburg prostitution lawyer right away to learn more.