Solicitation of prostitution is a serious criminal offense in the Commonwealth of Virginia, the penalties for which could include a substantial fine and a period of imprisonment. If the solicitation involves a minor, then the penalties could increase significantly. Depending on the circumstances, you could be charged with solicitation even if no money is exchanged and no sexual activity occurs.
If you are facing criminal charges for solicitation of prostitution, it may be wise to let a Fredericksburg solicitation lawyer assist you. A seasoned criminal defense attorney could work with you to create a strong defense and stand up for your rights and best interests every step of the way.
According to Virginia Code §18.2-346, solicitation of prostitution takes place when a person offers money or its equivalent to another individual for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity. As noted in the statute, a criminal charge of solicitation can still be made against a person who offered money for sexual activity even if the individual who was solicited declined to accept any money or refused to engage in sexual activity.
Offenses involving the solicitation of prostitution are classified as Class 1 misdemeanors. The penalties for Class 1 misdemeanor offenses in Fredericksburg may include incarceration for a maximum of 12 months, a fine of up to $2,500, or both.
More severe penalties may result from offenses involving a minor and are charged as felonies. Solicitation of a minor between the ages of 16 and 18 is a Class 6 felony and is punishable by a fine up to $2,500 and imprisonment for up to five years.
Furthermore, it is a Class 5 felony to solicit prostitution from a minor under the age of 16 years. The penalties associated with Class 5 felonies include a sentence of one to ten years in prison. An attorney who commonly handles solicitation cases in Fredericksburg could further explain the penalties associated with specific solicitation offenses.
VA Code §18.2-348 deems it unlawful to aid in the solicitation of prostitution or illicit sexual intercourse. For example, a person could face charges of aiding prostitution by driving another individual to a place where prostitution occurs or owning a residence meant for prostitution, such as a brothel.
Aiding prostitution and other solicitation-related offenses are Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500. If the offense involves someone under 18 years of age, then the offense can be charged as a Class 6 felony and is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $2,500 fine. A qualified solicitation lawyer in Fredericksburg could examine the details of a specific defendant’s case to determine the best defense.
You do not have to fight criminal charges for solicitation of prostitution on your own. With knowledgeable legal counsel on your side, you could have someone who understands solicitation laws looking out for your best interests and fighting to secure the best possible resolution to your case.
A Fredericksburg solicitation lawyer could provide crucial legal representation to help you fight solicitation charges. Contact an attorney today and begin building a strong defense.