With an experienced Dublin solicitation lawyer on your side, you may be able to defend yourself against potentially damaging prostitution-related charges. Aside from the criminal penalties that you may face, you also may experience collateral consequences, such as job loss, social ostracism, and damage to your reputation. Seeking legal advice may enable you to minimize the impact of these criminal charges on your life and your future.
An experienced criminal defense lawyer could determine which defenses are applicable in your case and how to present those defenses on your behalf. Legal counsel may also be able to weigh the strength of the evidence supporting the charges and negotiate with the prosecution to reach a mutually acceptable resolution of the matter. By getting the legal advice that you need, you may have a better chance of overcoming the charges against you.
Under California Penal Code § 647(b), solicitation of prostitution occurs when individuals request that others engage in sex acts with them, or when individuals agree to accept money or something of value in exchange for sex acts. To be convicted, individuals must have the intent to engage in prostitution and take some action to carry out the transaction. The law equates solicitation with prostitution, so regardless as to which party initiates the encounter or what role that party plays, either or both parties could face charges.
Intent to engage in sexual acts is an essential element to a solicitation conviction. The law does not require, however, that the other party to the transaction have the same intent. Therefore, if the person whom the individuals solicited was not a prostitute or did not agree to the proposed transaction, the individuals still could face solicitation charges.
Proof of intent to engage in solicitation also must be clear. Generally, driving through an area of town known for prostitution, waving or nodding to a stranger while driving by, or stopping to talk to a person on a street corner is not solid proof of an intent to engage in solicitation of prostitution. A solicitation lawyer in Dublin may be able to examine the charges that individuals are facing and assess whether there is adequate evidence of intent to engage in solicitation of prostitution, as well as evidence of other the requisite elements of the crime.
Solicitation is a misdemeanor in the state of California but still has the potential to result in harsh consequences. Individuals convicted of this crime as a first offense could face up to six months in jail, terms of probation, and a $1000 fine. For a second or subsequent offense, individuals can face lengthier mandatory minimum jail sentences and higher fines such as 45 days mandatory minimum and up to a year in county jail and a $2000 fine.
If solicitation of prostitution involves minors, and the soliciting person knew or should have known that they were minors at the time of the offense, then the mandatory minimum jail sentence is two days up to a maximum one year, as well as a $10,000 fine. Additionally, if individuals carried out the offense by using a vehicle within 1,000 feet of a private residence, they may be subject to a 30-day license suspension.
Fighting accusations of solicitation can be stressful but having a Dublin solicitation lawyer to assist you may result in a better outcome in your case. Rather than try to navigate a complicated criminal justice system on your own and hope for the best, consult legal counsel for professional advice.
Whether you made an error in judgment or were in the wrong place at the wrong time, you should take steps to avoid having a minor offense ruin the course of your life. Contact an experienced attorney today for legal representation.
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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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
No Charges Filed
No Criminal Charges Filed & Detention
No Jail Time & No Sex Offender Registration
Pled to 1 Petty Misdemeanor and Not Required to Register as Sex Offender
