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(972) 992-7382 (972) 992-7382Allegations involving prostitution used to seem like minor inconveniences. However, even a conviction for a first offense has the potential to require the payment of fines, result in a jail sentence, and create a criminal record unless you are the person who is accused of paying for the sexual conduct, then you could be facing a felony charge. It is essential to present a powerful defense against these allegations either to the police or to the prosecutor. This requires an understanding of the state’s laws concerning prostitution and knowledge of the criminal justice system.
An Allen prostitution lawyer could provide help in both areas. A defense attorney can evaluate the prosecutor’s evidence, listen to your side of the story, and fight for an outcome that protects your future. Our team is ready to do whatever is necessary to protect your reputation. We can draw on more than 100 years of combined experience in the criminal justice system to fight for your rights and freedoms.
At the simplest level, engaging in prostitution involves trading sex for money. Specifically, Texas Penal Code § 43.02 says it is against the law to receive a fee from another person to engage in any sexual conduct. However, state law says a variety of other behaviors violate the law.
As a result, the state’s prostitution laws prohibit many types of activities. This includes the traditional definition of having sexual intercourse in exchange for money. However, it can include other forms of sexual conduct, such as oral sex. It also covers the exchange of anything of value to pay for this sexual contact.
An Allen attorney could provide more information about the state’s prostitution laws and what they can do to help you with your case.
Allegations involving prostitution can be relatively minor offenses. Even so, people facing these charges must act quickly to protect themselves. Any conviction will result in the creation of a criminal record. These records can make finding a place to live or a job difficult.
In addition, a conviction can come with heavy penalties. The first conviction for prostitution is a Class B misdemeanor. This means the court can impose a maximum sentence of 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. Second and third prostitution convictions are Class A misdemeanors. This increases the possible jail term to one year, and the penalty can rise to $4,000. All subsequent prostitution convictions are felonies. The maximum prison term here is two years, and a fine may be as much as $10,000. These penalties, however, only apply to the person receiving the money for sex.
There are other laws involving prostitution that start out as felony offenses, resulting in more severe penalties. If you are charged with paying for sex, you will start out facing a state jail felony but could be charged with up to a second-degree felony depending on the facts. Depending on the evidence collected in your case you could also be charged with promotion of prostitution or compelling prostitution.
Building a powerful defense against these allegations is important. A lawyer in Allen can provide more information about the potential penalties for prostitution offenses and work with you to craft a defense that gives you a better chance of avoiding these outcomes.
If you are facing allegations involving prostitution, it is understandable to be frightened or confused. The state’s laws prohibiting this behavior include offering sex in exchange for money and a wide array of behaviors related to prostitution. As a result, you could face more severe penalties depending on what part of the transaction in which you were involved.
Fighting back against these charges is critical. A conviction will create a criminal record, could force you to pay a fine, or even see you end up in jail or prison. An Allen prostitution lawyer wants to help you to avoid this outcome. An attorney will work to evaluate the evidence in the case, determine if police officers followed correct procedures, and make arguments before juries on your behalf. Reach out to our office today to learn more.