Myrtle Beach Solicitation Lawyer

In Myrtle Beach, it is not only against the law to engage in prostitution, but also to hire someone for sex. The act of paying another party for sexual acts is known as solicitation, and it is a serious criminal offense. Our dedicated defense attorneys can help you face these allegations and protect your rights.

While many states have a unique criminal statute for solicitation, that is not the case in South Carolina. Instead, state prostitution laws apply to attempts to solicit sex for something of value. Our Myrtle Beach solicitation lawyers can advocate for you as you navigate the legal system.

What is Solicitation?

The act of solicitation involves engaging the services of a prostitute. However, it is important to understand that you could be charged with this crime even if you never actually engage in sexual activity. A person commits solicitation the moment they make an attempt to engage in a commercial transaction involving sexual activity.

That means you could face charges by merely making an offer or discussing an agreement related to prostitution. The state can file charges regardless of whether a sex act ever occurred.

Solicitation is the other half of South Carolina’s prostitution statute. There are specific scenarios where you could be charged with this offense. They include:

• Entering a place for the purposes of prostitution
• Exchanging something of value for sex
• Receiving someone into your vehicle for prostitution
• Negotiating services with a prostitute

These statutes were drafted to include broad language for a reason. In fact, you could be charged for abetting prostitution even if you were not one of the parties to the agreement. Let a solicitation defense attorney in Myrtle Beach review the allegations against you and advise you of your options.

Consequences of a Solicitation Conviction

The penalties associated with a solicitation conviction depend primarily on your criminal record. You can expect to face a lower sentence if you are a first-time offender, given that the maximum punishment is a $200 fine and 30 days in jail.

The consequences become more significant if you have a previous conviction. Second offenses lead to a maximum term of six months in jail and a fine of no more than $1,000. Finally, the highest penalties are reserved for third or subsequent offenses. In these cases, you could face up to a year in jail and $3,000 in fines.

Collateral Consequences

A solicitation conviction can carry lasting collateral consequences that extend beyond fines and jail time. You may face difficulty securing employment, especially in fields requiring background checks or professional licenses. It is not uncommon for employment-related challenges to last long after you have served your full sentence.

Housing options can become limited, as landlords may be hesitant to rent to someone with a criminal record. Educational opportunities and access to financial aid may also be affected. Additionally, those with solicitation convictions may experience damage to their personal reputation and relationships. For non-citizens, a conviction can trigger immigration consequences, including deportation or denial of reentry. Because these consequences are collateral to your conviction, it is rarely possible to reduce them through a plea bargain. This makes it more important than ever to have a Myrtle Beach solicitation attorney who is ready to fight for you.

Talk to a Solicitation Attorney in Myrtle Beach

If you have been accused of soliciting a prostitute, now is the right time to explore your legal options. A strong defense could be enough to have your charges dropped or even to win at trial. Instead of facing this challenge alone, reach out to a Myrtle Beach solicitation lawyer today.