A Virginia prostitution lawyer can represent you if you are accused of engaging in the offense of prostitution. Prostitution can have serious consequences, including jail time- even though both parties consent and there is no victim of this crime.
Virginia laws are so strict on prostitution that you could even be charged if no sex took place. This is where a Virginia prostitution lawyer comes in—working to make sure that your rights are protected and that you receive a strong legal defense.
You do not have to accept guilt if you are charged with any prostitution offense. You can raise defenses, including:
Your Virginia prostitution lawyer can help you determine if these or other defenses may help avoid conviction. To learn more about how an attorney can help with your charges, call today to speak with a prostitution attorney in Virginia.
The Virginia Criminal Code outlines multiple different offenses related to the crime of prostitution, and prosecutors may charge an individual with one or more of these crimes if they believe that person participated in the exchange of sex for money.
In Virginia, individuals can be charged with:
Under Virginia Code Section 18.2-346 you could be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor for offering sex for money, or for offering anything of value in exchange for sex acts. There is no requirement that the money change hands or the sex take place. Potential penalties include up to a year in jail and up to $2,500 in fines.
Under Code Section 18.2-347, you can be charged with this offense every single time you visit someplace where sex is being bought or sold. This is a Class 1 misdemeanor with the same possible penalties as prostitution or solicitation.
Under Code Section 18.2-348, you can be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor if you encourage, aid, or abet prostitution. Buying a prostitute for a friend can get you charged.
Under Code Section 18.2-349, you can face Class 1 misdemeanor charges if a car you own or are driving is used in some way to facilitate the purchase of sex acts.
Under Code Section 18.2-355, you can be charged with a Class 4 felony for detaining someone or taking someone somewhere to become involved in prostitution.
If you try to force or coerce someone into engaging in prostitution, you can be charged with a Class 4 felony under Code Section 18.2-356.
A Virginia prostitution lawyer can talk to a prosecutor assigned to your case and work out a plea deal if you do not want to face charges in court. Sometimes, the prosecutor may agree to a deal where you are charged with a less serious offense, or a lenient sentencing recommendation is made, if you admit you violated laws on prostitution.
Prostitution charges are challenging and sensitive. When you are forced to deal with any such charges, you can rely on an experienced Virginia prostitution lawyer. The legal team at our firm is standing by to conduct your free initial consultation, so don’t hesitate—call now.