Facing prostitution charges in Florida can be a daunting experience with severe legal and personal consequences. At Van Elswyk Law, we understand these cases’ complexities and their impact on your life. Our experienced team is dedicated to protecting your rights, reputation, and future. Whether you’re charged with engaging in prostitution or soliciting a prostitute, we provide skilled representation to navigate the legal system and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Understanding Prostitution Laws in Florida
Florida law takes a firm stance on prostitution-related offenses, criminalizing both the act of engaging in prostitution and soliciting a prostitute. Under Florida Statute 796.07, prostitution is defined as the giving or receiving of the body for sexual activity in exchange for money or other valuable consideration. This broad definition encompasses various activities and applies equally to those offering services and those seeking to purchase them. The law aims to discourage the sex trade by penalizing all parties involved, from sex workers to clients and facilitators. Understanding these laws is crucial, as even a first-time offense can result in significant legal penalties and long-lasting personal consequences.
Engaging in Prostitution
Engaging in prostitution involves offering to commit, committing, or agreeing to commit prostitution. This can include:
- Performing sexual acts for money or other valuable items
- Agreeing to perform sexual acts for compensation
- Entering or remaining in a place of prostitution with the intent to engage in prostitution
Soliciting a Prostitute
Solicitation occurs when a person requests, induces, entices, or procures another to commit prostitution. Examples include:
- Approaching someone to pay for sexual services
- Responding to advertisements for sexual services
- Arranging a meeting with the intent to pay for sexual activities
Penalties for Prostitution Offenses
The consequences of a prostitution conviction in Florida can be severe and long-lasting. Penalties may include:
- First Offense: A second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
- Second Offense: A first-degree misdemeanor, carrying up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
- Third or Subsequent Offense: This is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
In addition to these criminal penalties, a prostitution conviction can have far-reaching consequences, including:
- Difficulty finding employment
- Loss of professional licenses
- Housing discrimination
- Strained personal relationships
- Mandatory STD testing
- Required attendance at educational programs on the negative effects of prostitution and human trafficking
Potential Defenses in Prostitution Cases
At Van Elswyk Law, we develop strong defense strategies tailored to the specific circumstances of your case. Some potential defenses we may explore include:
- Lack of Intent: Proving that you did not intend to engage in or solicit prostitution.
- Entrapment: Demonstrating that law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you wouldn’t have otherwise committed.
- Mistaken Identity: Showing that you were wrongly identified as the person who committed the offense.
- Constitutional Violations: Challenging the legality of the arrest, search, or evidence-gathering procedures.
- Insufficient Evidence: Arguing that the prosecution lacks enough evidence to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
Related Offenses
Prostitution charges often intersect with other criminal offenses. Our firm also defends clients against related charges such as:
- Sexual Tourism
- Human trafficking
- Public nuisance violations
- Lewd or lascivious conduct
- Profiting from prostitution
How Our Law Firm Can Help
When facing prostitution charges in Florida, the stakes are high, and the right legal representation can make all the difference. At Van Elswyk Law, we defend futures. Our team combines in-depth legal knowledge with aggressive courtroom advocacy to fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Don’t let a single mistake define your life. With our proven track record of successfully handling prostitution cases, we have the experience and dedication to help you navigate this challenging time. From negotiating with prosecutors to crafting strong defense strategies, we’re committed to protecting your rights and preserving your reputation.
Time is essential in prostitution cases. The sooner you act, the more options we have to build a robust defense. Take control of your situation today, call Van Elswyk Law. Our compassionate team is ready to listen to your story and offer the guidance you need.