Orangeburg County Prostitution Lawyer

Allegations involving prostitution may seem like minor inconveniences. However, even a conviction for a first offense has the potential to require the payment of fines, result in a jail sentence, and create a criminal record.

Due to this, it is essential to be able to promote a powerful defense against these allegations in court. This requires an understanding of the state’s laws concerning prostitution as well as knowledge of the criminal justice system.

An Orangeburg County prostitution lawyer could provide help in both these areas. An attorney can work to evaluate the prosecutor’s evidence, listen to your side of the story, and fight for an outcome that better protects your future.

How the Law Defines Prostitution 

Engaging in prostitution involves trading sex for money. However, state law says that a variety of other behaviors violate the law. For example, South Carolina Code § 16-15-90 says that no fewer than 11 illegal acts fall under the umbrella of prostitution. They include:

• Soliciting another person to engage in prostitution
• Knowingly aiding or abetting the act of prostitution
• Entering into any place for the purpose of engaging in prostitution
• Exposing oneself in an indecent manner for the purpose of soliciting prostitution

As a result, the state’s prostitution laws encompass a variety of activities. In addition, these laws aim to punish not just people who are allegedly selling sex but also those looking to buy or facilitate the act. Understanding the law under which a person is facing criminal charges is often the first step in mounting an effective defense. An Orangeburg County prostitution attorney could provide more information about the state’s prostitution laws.

Possible Consequences for a Prostitution Conviction

Allegations involving prostitution are relatively minor offenses. Even so, people facing these charges need to act quickly to protect themselves. Any conviction will result in the creation of a criminal record. These records can make it difficult to find a place to live or a job.

In addition, a conviction can come with heavy penalties. According to S.C. Code § 16-15-110, a first conviction can result in a maximum fine of $200, a jail sentence of up to 30 days, or both. A second violation increases the fine to a maximum of $1,000 and the possible jail term to six months. A third or subsequent conviction carries a maximum jail sentence of one year as well as a maximum fine of $3,000.

Clearly, mounting a powerful defense against these allegations is important. An Orangeburg County prostitution lawyer can provide more information about the potential penalties for these offenses and work to craft defenses that give people a better chance of avoiding these outcomes.

Let an Orangeburg County Prostitution Attorney Fight to Protect Your Future

If you are facing allegations involving prostitution, it is understandable to be frightened or confused. The state’s laws prohibiting this behavior include not just offering sex in exchange for money but also a wide array of behaviors related to prostitution. As a result, both parties to an alleged exchange may face identical prostitution charges.

Fighting back against these charges is critical. A conviction will create a criminal record, could force you to pay a fine, or even see you end up in jail. An Orangeburg County prostitution lawyer wants to help you to avoid this outcome. An attorney could work to evaluate the evidence in the case, determine if police officers followed correct procedures, and make arguments before juries on your behalf. Reach out to an Orangeburg County prostitution attorney today to learn more.