Due to the broad legal definition of prostitution, law enforcement officers can sometimes misconstrue legal acts. If you or a loved one were accused of prostitution, you may find it advantageous to speak with an Alameda prostitution lawyer for advice.
A conviction for prostitution could impact your job, your family, and your future. You may have difficulty finding employment in the future or working in specific industries with a prostitution conviction that appears on background checks. Fortunately, a criminal defense attorney could advise you of the full extent of potential penalties for a prostitution conviction and work with you to pursue a positive outcome.
Under California Penal Code §647(b), both prostitution and solicitation are classified as disorderly conduct. These offenses occur when individuals take any actions that involve:
Because of how this definition is phrased, individuals participating in either side of a prostitution transaction could face the same penalties. Furthermore, third parties can be subject to criminal charges when they join in prostitution schemes. Participation may include scheduling a time and place for prostitution to occur or handling the financial aspects of a transaction.
A prostitution conviction, however, requires both acceptance of the offer or solicitation to engage in sex acts for money and an overt attempt to carry out the agreement. One example of an overt attempt to further an act of prostitution might be to appear at an agreed-upon location to engage in sex acts. Other common examples of overt attempts may include withdrawing funds to pay for the sex acts, exchanging money, or getting into a car to perform sex acts.
Anyone facing these sex crime charges may be wise to consult an Alameda prostitution attorney as soon as possible. Legal counsel may be able to examine the facts that led to the charges and determine whether the evidence is adequate to support the charges.
Prostitution is a misdemeanor under California law. Individuals facing a first offense for prostitution may receive up to six months in jail, a fine of $1,000, or both. If the crime involves others whom individuals knew or should have known were minors, fines could increase to up to $10,000, and the potential jail sentence is a minimum of two days and a maximum of one year.
Other possible penalties for a prostitution conviction may include a term of probation, community service requirements, mandatory HIV testing, and required counseling. Specific factors may increase the potential sanctions for a prostitution conviction, including previous convictions for prostitution offenses and offenses that occur within 1,000 feet of a private residence.
Individuals who use a motor vehicle in committing prostitution may lose their driving privileges for 30 days. Alternatively, they may be granted only restricted driving rights for up to six months, which limits them to driving back and forth to work and/or school and completing any work-related duties.
A prostitution conviction carries the potential for collateral consequences as well. You would have a permanent criminal conviction on your record that is likely to show up on background checks by prospective employers and landlords. A conviction also may prohibit you from working in specific industries and attaining some professional licenses.
Furthermore, after three or more prosecution convictions, you may find yourself facing a felony charge. Legal advice from a prostitution lawyer in Alameda may help you effectively defend against these charges and reach a better resolution in the case.
If you were accused of prostitution or a related crime, you may be embarrassed, stressed, and concerned about your future. The negative impact that an arrest can have on you professionally and personally can be significant even before you enter a courtroom.
No matter your situation, you should protect your rights by enlisting the help of an Alameda prostitution lawyer. Schedule a consultation by calling today.
The Nieves Law Firm is dedicated to providing aggressive criminal defense representation to working professionals who have found themselves in trouble with the law. We show up to win, and we’re not afraid to fight aggressively to accomplish our client’s goals.
We understand that being accused of a crime can be a scary and confusing experience. That’s why we take the stress off our clients by handling the full scope of their legal situation from the initial consultation to the final outcome. Our bilingual attorneys and staff are here to ensure that our clients feel heard and understood every step of the way.
As one of the largest criminal defense teams in Oakland and the Greater Bay Area, we have the resources and experience to handle even the most complex cases. Our experienced team examines various aspects of your case and, perhaps most importantly, we genuinely care about our clients and their future. We take the time to learn about their goals and priorities so that we can achieve an outcome that allows them to move past their mistakes and focus on the future they want. When you work with us, you become part of our team.
Our skilled criminal defense attorneys have experience handling a wide range of criminal cases. With a deep understanding of the legal system and a track record of successful cases, our lawyers are committed to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
When facing a criminal charge, having dedicated and experienced attorneys on your side is critical. At The Nieves Law Firm, we understand the gravity of your situation, and our criminal defense attorneys provide unwavering support and legal guidance.
From the moment you reach out to us, we prioritize your well-being and legal interests. Our criminal lawyers are with you every step of the way, from arrest to hearings and beyond, to ensure that your rights are protected. Whether you’re facing charges related to DUI, drug offenses, assault, sex crimes or any other allegation, we have the knowledge and courtroom experience to fight vigorously on your behalf.
We believe in the power of collaboration and will actively involve you in the decision-making process, ensuring you are well-informed and empowered to make the best choices for your defense. Our goal is not only to navigate the legal complexities but also to provide you with the peace of mind and reassurance you deserve during this challenging time.
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Successful Immigration-Safe Resentencing
Case Dismissed after Completion of Deferred Entry of Judgment
Case Dismissed after Completion of Drug Court
All Charges Dismissed and Property Ordered to be Returned to Client
Deferred Entry of Judgment
Case Dismissed
Case Dismissed without Trial
Motion to Vacate Granted
Restraining Order Denied and Sealed
Both Cases Dismissed Prior to Trial
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