Lexington Solicitation Lawyer

In Lexington County, it is against the law to obtain the services of a prostitute. Doing so is referred to as solicitation. If law enforcement believes you solicited the services of a prostitute or attempted to do so, you could be facing serious criminal charges. A Lexington solicitation lawyer can be an important advocate for you and your rights in arguing against such charges.

Many states have specific laws covering solicitation of prostitutes, but South Carolina considers all prostitution-related activities, including solicitation of a prostitute, as prostitution. Understanding more about the state’s approach to solicitation is an important first step in preparing to fight these allegations. Contact a seasoned defense attorney today to see how legal counsel could help your situation.

Definition of Solicitation

Solicitation is an attempt to engage in obtaining the services of a prostitute. One important aspect of both solicitation and prostitution is that intent is often enough to establish the charge.

In other words, a person need not carry out the alleged activity as long as the circumstances provide law enforcement with probable cause to make an arrest. This is often the case in solicitation cases. It is best to reach out to a knowledgeable Lexington attorney when facing sex crime charges.

Examples of Offenses in Lexington County

Solicitation is part of the state’s laws on prostitution, which can be found in South Carolina’s Code of Laws Section 16-50-90 and 16-50-100. Some common forms of solicitation may include:

• Residing in or entering a place for the purpose of prostitution
• Receiving a person into any place for the purpose of prostitution
• Taking anyone into a vehicle for the purpose of prostitution
• Traditionally soliciting or obtaining the services of a prostitute

The state’s laws cast a wide net over offenses considered related to prostitution, and even aiding or abetting the commission of prostitution could result in criminal charges. That means that even knowingly allowing prostitution to occur can be illegal.

Potential Punishments

While prostitution and solicitation may not seem like serious charges, they do carry significant consequences. This is why it is essential for someone who has been arrested for solicitation in Lexington to hire a lawyer. Solicitation is a criminal offense and may result in a criminal record.

In addition to the criminal record, solicitation has several other potential consequences. A first-time solicitation offense can result in a fine of up to $200 or up to 30 days in jail.

As with most charges, repeat offenses have even higher stakes. A second offense for solicitation may carry a fine of up to $1,000 and/or jail for up to six months. Any subsequent offenses after the second may result in fines of up to $3,000 and/or a minimum of one year in jail.

Call a Lexington Solicitation Attorney

There is a lot at stake when it comes to defending against these charges. These offenses can have long-term effects on educational and job opportunities as well as many other aspects of your life. However, as intimidating as these charges may seem, you do not have to face them alone. Working with a passionate attorney who understands the nature of your charges and important nuances of the law can help you explore the options available to you in your circumstances.

If you have concerns about facing solicitation charges, speak with a well-versed Lexington solicitation lawyer and begin building the most robust defense possible.