West Palm Beach Solicitation of Prostitution Defense Lawyer David W. Olson
Florida’s solicitation of prostitution laws prohibit all prostitution-related activity. Many individuals are surprised to learn that actual sexual contact is not required in order to be charged with solicitation of prostitution – nor is an exchange of money. In many instances, an arrest occurs simply as a result of a conversation in which the accused allegedly offered money for sexual conduct.
If you were charged with solicitation of prostitution, it is vital to hire an experienced and highly qualified attorney who will vigorously pursue the most favorable outcome possible, such as a dismissal of charges. A conviction for solicitation can create extensive harm to one’s reputation, career and personal life. Your attorney’s early intervention is often the key to a favorable and quick disposition. Attorney David W. Olson has more than 33 years of experience representing thousands of clients for a wide variety of criminal offenses, including solicitation of prostitution.
Florida’s Solicitation of Prostitution Laws and Penalties
Florida’s solicitation laws are proscribed in Chapter 796, Florida Statutes, “Prostitution.” The following sections are or may be relevant to your individual case:
- “Prostitution” means the giving or receiving of the body for sexual activity for hire but excludes sexual activity between spouses. 796.07(1)(a)
It is unlawful:
- “To offer to commit, or to commit, or to engage in, prostitution, lewdness or assignation.”(2)(e)
- “To solicit, induce, entice, or procure another to commit prostitution, lewdness, or assignation.” (2)(f)
- “To aid, abet, or participate in any of the acts or things enumerated in this subsection.” (2)(h)
- “To purchase the services of any person engaged in prostitution.” (2)(i)a
Penalties:
- 1st offense: 2nd degree misdemeanor, maximum 60 days jail and/or a $500 fine.
- 2nd offense: 1st degree misdemeanor, maximum 1 year jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
- 3rd or subsequent offense: third degree felony, 5 years jail and/or a $5,000 fine.
A Slew of Potential Consequences for Solicitation of Prostitution
In addition to possible fines and incarceration, a solicitation conviction may result in many other consequences, including, but not limited to:
- Criminal record – a conviction will result in a permanent criminal record that is available to the public.
- Mandatory HIV/STD screening – a convicted individual may be required to undergo screening for a sexually transmissible disease at the Department of Health and if infected must submit to treatment and counseling prior to release from probation, community service or incarceration. Further, the results will be made known to state attorneys, state agencies and the courts.
- Social stigma – may affect virtually all areas of your personal, family, and professional life.
- Driver’s license revocation – an automatic revocation will result if the violation was “… affected through the use of a motor vehicle.” 322.26(7)
- Possible vehicle seizure – in some cases if the vehicle was used in the offense it may be subject to seizure.
- Televised information possible – some programs showcase those charged with or convicted of solicitation of prostitution.
- Professional licensure and employment difficulties are common as well.
Challenging Solicitation of Prostitution Charges
Many solicitation arrests occur as a result of coordinated police stings where officers pose as prostitutes, escorts, sex workers or masseuses. Dozens of “Johns” may be targeted, ensnared, arrested and charged in a single sting. There are numerous legal defenses that may be utilized to challenge a solicitation charge, including, but not limited to:
- Entrapment – when an officer induces and/or encourages an individual to commit an offense that they would not otherwise commit, entrapment may result.
- Violation of Constitution Rights – unlawful police conduct that violates an individual’s rights may result in a dismissal of charges.
- Lack of evidence – may result in a dismissal or reduction of charges.
- Lack of actual agreement for sexual services – allegations must be proven. If the accused did not actually offer remuneration for sexual activity, there was no actual agreement.
- Other defenses – ask Attorney Olson about your case.
Law Offices of Attorney David W. Olson – Criminal Defense for Solicitation of Prostitution Charges
Attorney David W. Olson has 33 years of experience zealously and effectively representing clients accused of felony and misdemeanor charges, including solicitation of prostitution. David understands that every case may well be the most important matter in the client’s life. Every aspect of each case is personally handled by David. Attorney Olson personally answers his clients’ questions and promptly responds to their phone calls and emails.
- Attorney Olson was honored to receive the prestigious AV Preeminent Peer Rating – a perfect 5.0 out of a possible 5.0 – for his professional ability and high ethical standards. Less than five percent of all attorneys receive this distinction.
- He also was chosen as a member of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers.
- Attorney Olson was also awarded the “10 Best” award for client satisfaction
An arrest for solicitation of prostitution is not a conviction. Attorney Olson will pursue the most positive outcome for your case. In many cases he has been able to get the prosecution to drop the charges, especially for first-time offenders. Every case is unique and will be treated with great care and attention. Early intervention is always preferred so Attorney Olson can immediately start preparing your defense.
Attorney Olson serves clients in West Palm Beach, Palm Beach County, Broward County, Fort Lauderdale, Miami-Dade County, Boca Raton, Delray Beach and elsewhere throughout Florida. He offers a free case review, which can be scheduled by calling The Law Offices of David W. Olson at 561-833-8866.
Source
Chapter 796, Florida Statutes (2014)
Sec. 322.26(7), Florida Statutes (2014)
