Lexington Prostitution Lawyer

Most people have seen plenty of examples of prostitution on television and in the movies. However, prostitution is more common than many people may realize and can happen anywhere. If you are facing prostitution charges, a Lexington prostitution lawyer can help you overcome the obstacles these charges may present.

Everyone makes mistakes and it is a misconception that someone facing a prostitution charge does not have options. Even when facing serious criminal charges, you still have rights that must be protected and preserved. Understanding these rights starts with understanding the charges you are accused of violating. Call a dedicated defense attorney today to get started on your case.

Understanding Prostitution Charges

Prostitution is criminal conduct that occurs when someone offers or accepts money for an act of a sexual nature. Most people are familiar with the basic definition of prostitution. However, the state’s prostitution laws cover a wide variety of activities related to prostitution that some individuals may not be aware of.

Prostitution offenses are defined in South Carolina’s Code of Laws Section 16-15-90 and 16-15-100. According to these laws, both accepting and providing payment for prostitution is illegal. However, even the intent to perform one of these actions could result in prostitution or related charges.

Likewise, aiding in the commission of prostitution is also illegal. This may apply to circumstances including:

• Providing a space for prostitution to occur
• Permitting an individual to engage in prostitution in any location
• Establishing and/or running a brothel
• Providing transportation for the commission of prostitution

That means that even driving someone to a place where they may engage in prostitution could result in serious criminal charges if the person is aware of the individual’s intent.

Potential Consequences in Lexington

Section 16-15-110 states that if an individual is facing first-time prostitution charges, they could face up to 30 days in jail or a fine of up to $200. A second offense is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in jail. Any subsequent offenses may result in fines up to $3,000 and/or a minimum of one year in jail. Given the severity of these penalties, anyone facing prostitution charges should make retaining a local attorney their top priority.

Defending Against Prostitution Charges

While no one approach to defense will work for everyone facing prostitution charges, an experienced Lexington prostitution attorney can help determine what defenses may be available in a specific case. A thorough, dynamic approach to a person’s defense will help them explore the possible approaches they can take.

Even if someone is facing serious criminal charges, they still have important rights that must be protected. This not only applies in the courtroom, but also in the events leading to the charge and after the arrest. An experienced attorney can investigate the case to determine whether law enforcement followed the proper procedures and whether the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense warrant a charge.

The evidence is often a key component in criminal trials. An accomplished attorney in Lexington who is familiar with prostitution charges understands the nuances of the law and what standard for sufficient evidence. They can work to determine whether the state’s evidence meets that burden.

A Lexington Prostitution Attorney Can Help

Prostitution charges can have a significant impact on your future. With so much at stake, it is important to explore all the options available to defend against the charges. Prostitution charges can be intimidating and may make it difficult for you to know where to start your defense. Working with a dedicated legal advocate can help you understand your charges as well as your rights.

If you are facing prostitution charges, contact a well-versed Lexington prostitution lawyer who can work with you to help you overcome the obstacles and challenges these charges present.