Goose Creek Prostitution Lawyer

A prostitution charge can have an overwhelmingly negative effect on your life, your reputation, your relationships, and your freedom. Knowing how to best handle your case is vital in protecting your constitutional rights, as these charges may result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you have been accused of seeking out or engaging in an act of prostitution, a criminal defense attorney could help you assess your legal options.

You could pursue a dismissal or acquittal of these charges with a skilled Goose Creek prostitution lawyer by your side. Schedule your free consultation to get started.

Defining Prostitution Under State Law

South Carolina Code § 16-15-90 outlines the various acts that may result in prostitution charges. While the most common incident is participating in sex for money or other compensation, many other situations still fall under the umbrella of prostitution.

Situations that may result in a prostitution charge in Goose Creek include:

• Procuring prostitution for others
• Soliciting prostitution
• Residing in or owning a brothel-like structure
• Aiding and abetting prostitution
• Transporting or helping others for the purposes of prostitution
• Renting or leasing a motor vehicle for the purposes of prostitution
• Exposing oneself indecently to solicit prostitution

All of these acts could result in a prostitution charge, regardless of whether or not a sexual act was performed. The act of seeking these services is often enough to face a full prostitution charge and conviction. A knowledgeable Goose Creek attorney could help navigate court proceedings around prostitution charges.

“Attempted Prostitution” Does Not Exist

State law is written in such a way that there is no “attempted prostitution” charge; the attempt constitutes the act itself. This is what permits prostitution “stings”, which are law enforcement setups that attempt to catch those who seek out prostitutes. When these stings are successful, law enforcement is able to charge potential offenders with prostitution.

Penalties for Prostitution in Goose Creek

Significant penalties could result from a prostitution conviction, including jail time and many other severe legal repercussions. Legal penalties increase in severity each time someone is convicted.

Penalties for a prostitution charge may include:

• First conviction – A person may receive up to thirty days in jail, a $200 fine, or both
• Second conviction – A person may face up to sixty days in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both
• Third and subsequent offenses – For a third or subsequent offense, a minimum jail sentence of one year is required and a potential fine of up to $3,000, or both

Anyone facing charges of this nature should prioritize contacting a local prostitution attorney. A strong defense could negate these potential penalties and help to protect one’s rights.

An Experienced Goose Creek Prostitution Attorney Could Help

Courts do not take prostitution charges lightly. It is imperative that you work with a knowledgeable attorney to build the strongest possible defense.

A Goose Creek prostitution lawyer understands how serious these cases are and could fight tirelessly on your behalf in court. Take the first step in protecting your rights–contact a committed member of our legal team today.