The Consequences of Picking Up Love For an Hour In Florida
It may seem quite old fashioned in modern America that soliciting somebody to take part in a sexual act is illegal but this is the case in Florida, one of the strictest states in the country. Solicitation is defined as requesting or ordering another person to carry out a crime and in this case soliciting for prostitution. This type of crime is often a misdemeanor, but this doesn’t mean the punishment is not harsh.
The consequences of a conviction for soliciting a prostitute
One of the consequences of committing a crime is that if convicted it could have a life changing impact on both your professional and personal life. On top of that you could end up doing time in jail and be asked to pay a hefty fine. Even just accessing an hour or so with a prostitute in Florida you are risking your freedom.
Key points when soliciting a prostitute for that extra hour of prostitution
The offense is usually a misdemeanor;
The person being solicited does not need to be a known prostitute;
The person being solicited can be willing;
To be charged, money may not have changed hands but an offer of money is sufficient;
A sexual act may not have taken place to face the charge.
Florida’s penalties for soliciting a prostitute
For the 1st offense soliciting a prostitute is a misdemeanor in the 2nd degree. The penalties could amount to a period in jail up to 60 days, a $500 fine or both. For the 2nd offense this is a misdemeanor in the 1st degree which could attract a year in jail, a $1,000 fine or both. If you face a third charge this is judged as a felony in the 3rd degree. The sentence for this could involve a prison term of 5 years or a maximum fine of $5,000 or even both.
Penalties for soliciting love with a minor
If a minor is involved the charges are likely to be much more severe. One would normally expect each charge to be increased by a degree. For example, a charge of a misdemeanor in the 3rd degree would be a 3rd degree felony if the soliciting involved a minor.
Extra Civil Penalties imposed in Florida
In addition, Florida Statute § 796.07 which is concerned with prostitution, now enforces a civil penalty for soliciting for prostitution. This has been set at $5,000 if the violation is established by the court, other than a dismissal or acquittal.
You Need a Defense Attorney
Anyone accused of soliciting for prostitution will only have any chance of being acquitted of the charge if they take on a criminal defense attorney to fight on their behalf like Florida’s Albert Quirantes Esq., who has had years of experience working on behalf of defendants. In order to avoid paying the civil penalty, an alleged offender would need to get all charges dismissed or go to a trial by jury to and be found not guilty. You can reach his office at 305-644-1800.
Albert Quirantes: Your Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer & DUI Lawyer
For over 30 years, Miami criminal defense attorney Albert M. Quirantes has been aggressively and zealously defending the rights of those accused of felony and misdemeanor crimesthroughout South Florida. With his dedicated team, reasonable legal fees, and a well-earned reputation for challenging prosecutors at every turn, he has protected over 8,000 clients during some of the roughest times of their lives.
Increase your knowledge! If you want to know more about how to resolve the problems you face when charged with a criminal offense in Florida, then you can follow Miami Criminal Attorney Albert M. Quirantes on Facebook, Twitter, or Google+.
If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, please call us today at (305) 644-1800 or fill out our online form to arrange for your free, confidential initial consultation.
If you have any questions about this or any other criminal accusation, call Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer Albert Quirantes at: (305) 644-1800 or visit our homepage www.CriminalDefendant.com for a direct link to the office or a text message or a map and directions to our office.
