Solicitation of others to engage in sex acts is a crime under state law. While these offenses are largely misdemeanors, they still can result in lengthy jail sentences and high fines. Consulting an Alameda solicitation lawyer could be instrumental in minimizing your potential exposure to these sanctions.
You are likely to need the counsel and guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney to determine the best defense strategy in your case. With a strong legal advocate to represent your interests, you may have better odds of achieving your objectives for your case.
State law equates prostitution with solicitation, so they essentially are the same criminal offense with the same penalties. California Penal Code §647(b) defines solicitation of prostitution as when an individual asks another to engage in sex acts with him or her for money. This state requires that the individuals involved knowingly and intentionally engage in solicitation or prostitution, as well as take some affirmative actions to complete the agreed-upon transaction.
To obtain a conviction, prosecutors only must prove that the individuals who are facing criminal charges have the requisite intent to commit the offense. As a result, if the person whom you were allegedly soliciting did not intend to engage in prostitution, you still could face charges if the prosecution shows you had the requisite intent. However, proof of intent to engage in solicitation must be clear and unmistakable in order to be valid.
Therefore, the act of waving at or talking to someone standing on a street corner in a neighborhood known for prostitution would likely not qualify as clear intent to engage in solicitation of prostitution. An Alameda solicitation attorney could assess your situation and determine whether there is adequate proof of intent to sustain a solicitation conviction.
State law considers solicitation to be a misdemeanor offense, but a conviction still can have potentially harsh consequences. Upon conviction, you may face up to one year in jail, probation, and high fines. Subsequent convictions can result in even more severe punishments.
If solicitation of prostitution involves a minor, and the person soliciting knew or should have known that he or she was a minor at the time of the offense, the potential penalties increase. In this case, the mandatory minimum jail sentence is two days, and the maximum sentence is one year, and a $10,000 fine may also be levied. Given the potential severity of these sanctions, getting the advice of a qualified lawyer in Alameda may be crucial to pursuing a positive outcome in your case.
Individuals convicted of solicitation may be subject to other adverse consequences, as well. For example, if an individual solicited another person using a vehicle and within 1,000 feet of a private residence, he or she may receive a 30-day license suspension as part of his or her sentence. Alternatively, a court can issue a restricted license for up to six months.
This conviction would also appear on background checks by prospective employers, landlords, and more. Accordingly, the appearance of a criminal conviction for solicitation may harm your chances to obtain new jobs, work in some industries, and gain some professional licenses.
While a misdemeanor solicitation charge may initially seem minor, various circumstances can make the situation much more severe. Consulting an Alameda attorney may be an essential step in fighting back against these potentially severe consequences.
By getting legal advice when you need it most, you may increase your chances of a favorable outcome. Being aware of the full range of options may permit you to make more informed decisions about your case, so call an Alameda solicitation lawyer today and schedule your first consultation.
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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