Prostitution

Fulton County prosecutors aggressively pursue prostitution cases. Georgia law provides harsh punishments for solicitation of prostitution convictions, even for first-time convictions.

This prosecution approach means that those facing prostitution charges need an attorney to protect their legal rights. Those convicted of prostitution could face long jail sentences and high fines, in addition to the pain and stigma associated with a sexual offense conviction.

Do not try to handle your case alone, instead let skilled Fulton County lawyers defend you in court. A Fulton County prostitution attorney will handle your case with the respect and attention it deserves.

Georgia Code defines prostitution as performing or offering or consenting to perform a sexual act for money or other items of value. This definition of prostitution is broad because it encompasses any sexual act, not just sexual intercourse.

Performing any sex act, including sodomy, oral copulation, or other sexual acts are included in this legal definition. Even offering to perform, or consenting to perform, these acts without actually performing them is considered prostitution under state law.

Prosecutors must prove that performance or an offer of a sexual act took place in exchange for money or something else of value. One defense against a prostitution charge is that nothing of value was offered for the act. That is, that the two parties engaged in sexual act but they did not exchange money or property.

Another important defense against prostitution charges is an affirmative defense that the defendant was actually a victim of sex trafficking. This means that the defendant acknowledges their actions met the legal definition of prostitution, but the law protects them from prosecution in unique circumstances. Georgia Code protects victims of sex trafficking against prostitution charges.

If a sex trafficking victim can prove they committed prostitution “under coercion or deception while the accused was being trafficked for sexual servitude in violation of subsection,” they cannot be found guilty.

Typically, prostitution is a misdemeanor crime in Fulton County. Penalties for a first-time prostitution conviction can include:

• Fines up to $1,000
• A jail sentence up to 12 months

These prostitution penalties can increase of the alleged act of prostitution took place near a school, house of worship, or other location where minors typically gather. Because prostitution is a sexual offense, a conviction can lead to devastating consequences beyond the legal punishments. The best way to avoid a prostitution conviction is to contact a Fulton County prostitution lawyer immediately after arrest.

There are numerous crimes related to prostitution as defined by state law. Some of the most related charges in Fulton County include:

• Keeping a place of prostitution: exercising control over or granting permission for the use of any place to be used for prostitution
• Masturbation for hire: erotically stimulating the genital organs of another, for money
• Solicitation: seeking sexual acts for hire
• Pimping: offering, procuring, arranges, or otherwise aids and abets prostitution, or profiting from prostitution

Each of these related charges carries different legal penalties upon conviction and can include high fines, probation, or even a jail sentence. As such, it is vital to contact a prostitution lawyer in Fulton County to begin building a defense right away and work towards avoiding the penalties.

Fulton County prostitution defense attorneys are dedicating to representing residents against such charges. Contact today to learn how they can help defend you in court and protect your reputation.