Prostitution is an offense that remains illegal within the state of Georgia. Solicitation is just one crime connected with prostitution. Solicitation is an act where someone seeks sexual pleasures for hire. Solicitation is deemed a sex offense that could lead to jail time and sizeable financial penalties.
If you have been charged with solicitation, you will need an experienced Alpharetta solicitation lawyer as soon as possible. Reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney, who can fight to defend your liberties and protect your rights.
Solicitation and Pandering ChargesProstitution is illegal; therefore, solicitation is also listed as a sex crime, and considered pandering. A crime is considered pandering when a person solicits another to engage in an act of prostitution. Pandering could also apply to a group that gathers with the intent to solicit prostitution. There is a major difference between solicitation and the act of prostitution. With solicitation, it is the request that is criminal, not the sexual activity.
Discussing prostitution, specifically discussing the sexual acts to be provided and the pricing, is also illegal. It is the prosecution’s burden to prove that the defendant had a serious intention to perform the sexual deed, because they agreed to pay for the service. A qualified Alpharetta solicitation attorney can attempt to disprove that their potential client had the intent to perform a sexual act.
Solicitation PenaltiesAn act of soliciting is a high and aggravated misdemeanor in Georgia. The charge could be upgraded to a felony if it is shown that the solicitor knew that the prostitute was a minor, or a victim of human trafficking.
A defendant that is convicted of a high and aggravated misdemeanor will be punishable with a fine up to $5,000. Additionally, the defendant could spend up to a year in jail. Should the act of solicitation occur somewhere where children frequent, such as a playground, a place of worship, a recreational center, or a school, then the fine may increase by $2,500. The defendant might face up to 20 years in prison and a fine as much as $10,000, should there be a felonious solicitation that involves a minor or a victim of human trafficking. An Alpharetta solicitation lawyer can attempt to mitigate
Consequences of SolicitationWhen the verdict has been rendered, more remains to be done. A defendant of a solicitation charge is mandated to submit to a sexually transmitted disease test. When the defendant is married, the spouse will be shown the test results. A conviction can also result in the forfeiture of the motor vehicle used in the solicitation act.
Talking to an Alpharetta Solicitation AttorneyThe punishments for solicitation in Georgia are severe and the impact is lifelong. If you have been charged with solicitation or pandering, an experienced Alpharetta solicitation lawyer is prepared to help defend you against all criminal charges. A skilled lawyer will fight for your rights and to minimize the impacts of a damaged reputation. Seek the services of a determined legal advocate that can fight for a positive outcome for you.