Lisbon Solicitation for Prostitution Defense Lawyers

Facing solicitation for prostitution charges in Ohio can have severe legal consequences. From potential misdemeanor charges and hefty fines to the possibility of jail time, the stakes are high. But worry not, because the Youngstown Criminal Law Group is here to help.

With over 20,000 criminal cases under our belt, Youngstown Criminal Law Group stands as a stalwart defense counsel serving Lisbon and the surrounding counties. When you choose us to handle your case, you can rest assured knowing that experienced attorneys will fight tenaciously on your behalf.

Our founder, Sean Logue, is recognized as one of the top 10 criminal defense lawyers in Ohio by the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys. This distinction is a testament to our unwavering dedication to our clients.

Ohio Solicitation for Prostitution: Expert Lisbon Attorneys at Your Service

When you’re accused of or charged with solicitation for prostitution, time is of the essence. Don’t hesitate to seek legal representation. The resourceful and knowledgeable Lisbon prostitution lawyers at Youngstown Criminal Law Group will be your fearless advocates, striving to preserve your reputation and freedom.

We have a proven track record in handling all types of sex offense cases in Ohio, and our attorneys embody both compassion and aggression in the courtroom. It’s this unique combination that sets us apart.

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we take pride in our national recognition and numerous accolades. Being named among Columbus CEO Magazine’s “Top Lawyers” and designated as Super Lawyers’ “Rising Star” speaks to our commitment to excellence.

Serving the greater Columbiana County area, including Harrison, Lisbon, Blue Ash, Springfield, Reading, and Montgomery, our Lisbon solicitation for prostitution defense lawyers are ready to stand by your side.

Don’t face this challenging situation alone. Call Youngstown Criminal Law Group at 844.PIT.DUI to get the help you deserve.

Types of Solicitation for Prostitution Charges in Ohio

Under Ohio Revised Code § 2907.24, soliciting a prostitute is a punishable offense when an individual intentionally solicits someone in a public place for engaging in sexual activity in return for payment.

Possible Included Offenses

In addition to solicitation, there are other offenses you might face based on the specifics of your case:

Loitering to Solicit Prostitution:

Loitering to solicit prostitution (Ohio Revised Code § 2907.241) refers to engaging in the following actions with the intent to solicit prostitution:

• Beckoning, stopping, or attempting to stop another person
• Encouraging or attempting to make another person enter a vehicle
• Stopping or attempting to stop a vehicle or its operator
• Engaging or attempting to engage another person in conversation
• Blocking or obstructing someone’s path

Compelling Prostitution:

Under Ohio Revised Code § 2907.21, compelling prostitution is when an individual induces someone to engage in sexual activity. The following actions constitute compelling prostitution:

• Compelling a person to engage in sexual activity for payment
• Inducing, facilitating, or soliciting a minor or someone believed to be a minor to engage in sexual activity for payment
• Paying a minor, or someone believed to be a minor, for participating in sexual activity, regardless of knowledge of the minor’s age
• Paying or agreeing to pay a minor, or someone believed to be a minor, with the intention of involving them in sexual activity, regardless of awareness of the minor’s age
• Allowing a minor, or someone believed to be a minor, to engage in sexual activity for payment when the offender is their parent or guardian

Understanding Prostitution Charges and Penalties in Lisbon, Ohio

Ohio’s stance on prostitution charges is a matter of utmost seriousness. Solicitation for prostitution, a third-degree misdemeanor, carries significant repercussions, including:

• A possible fine of up to $500
• Potential jail time of up to 60 days

Penalties for Compelling Prostitution

Compelling prostitution, which involves engaging in sexual activity resulting from solicitation, is treated as a third-degree felony. Third-degree felonies entail severe consequences:

• A possible fine of up to $10,000
• A potential prison sentence of up to 5 years

If the alleged offender compels an individual between the ages of 16 and 18 into sexual activity for hire, they may face a second-degree felony charge. Second-degree felonies are subject to the following penalties:

• A possible fine of up to $15,000
• A potential prison term of up to 8 years

However, if the convicted offender compels an individual below the age of 16, the penalty is greatly amplified. In such cases, the charge is elevated to a first-degree felony with the following consequences:

• A possible fine of up to $20,000
• A potential prison term of up to 10 years

Defenses for Solicitation for Prostitution in Columbiana County

Facing charges in Columbiana County does not signify the end of the road. Our team of skilled Lisbon prostitution lawyers is equipped to employ various defense strategies tailored to your case’s specific circumstances.

Lack of Substantial Evidence

In the eyes of the law, anyone accused of solicitation for prostitution is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Thus, the burden lies with the prosecution to establish your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

With this defense strategy, we strive to dismantle the prosecution’s case. Crucially, they must provide indisputable evidence of your solicitation for sex in exchange for money. Without unequivocal proof of your involvement in such an agreement, conviction for this offense is unfounded.

Entrapment

Entrapment is an effective defense against solicitation for prostitution charges, particularly in cases where undercover law enforcement officers masquerade as prostitutes and attempt to incite the defendant into solicitation.

These meticulously orchestrated scenarios involve multiple officers, one assuming the role of the prostitute while the others coax the defendant into engaging in solicitation for the undercover officer’s services in exchange for money.

To leverage this defense, our legal team will utilize our comprehensive knowledge of police tactics to convince the court that the actions of law enforcement officers coerced you into behaving contrary to your true nature. This element serves as a vital aspect of any entrapment defense.

Misunderstanding

Our ability to build a strong defense against solicitation charges hinges on the specific verbiage exchanged during the alleged incident. To convict, the prosecution must demonstrate that you engaged in a conversation with another party centered around exchanging money for sexual activities.

However, should the evidence fail to provide this crucial confirmation, our expert legal team will skillfully argue that your interest in the other party involved indicated a mutual attraction, leading you to suggest engaging in sexual conduct. This defense strategy proves most impactful when we successfully convince the court that you were unaware of the other party’s involvement in the sex trade.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solicitation for Prostitution Charges in Ohio

Q: Will I go to jail for soliciting prostitution in Lisbon?

A: Yes, the offense of soliciting prostitution can lead to imprisonment. If convicted, you may face 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. In cases involving compelling prostitution, the penalties increase to a potential $10,000 fine and a prison term of up to five years. These consequences are even more severe if the offense involves a person between the ages of 16 and 18, with fines reaching $20,000 and a possible prison sentence of 10 years for those younger than 16.

Q: How is solicitation different from prostitution in Columbiana County?

A: In the eyes of Ohio law, solicitation refers to the actions and behaviors leading up to performing sex acts in exchange for money. It encompasses offering or accepting propositions for commercial sex and hiring individuals to engage in such activities. Prostitution, on the other hand, specifically pertains to the actual act of performing sex acts for money.

Q: What type of charge is solicitation for prostitution in Lisbon?

A: Solicitation for prostitution is typically charged as a misdemeanor of the third degree in Lisbon. If convicted, you may be subject to a fine of up to $500 and a jail term of up to 60 days. However, if the solicitation results in the act of prostitution, the offense becomes more serious, potentially leading to up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. When minors are involved or the offense includes compelling prostitution, the penalties are further enhanced.

Q: How do I defend against a solicitation of prostitution charge in Ohio?

A: Like with any other crime, individuals charged with solicitation of prostitution in Ohio are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Our team of experienced Lisbon sex crimes lawyers can employ various defense strategies to raise reasonable doubt in court. For instance, we may argue that the prosecution lacks substantial evidence of an agreement to exchange money for sex. We can also investigate and establish the possibility of entrapment leading to your arrest. During your consultation, our solicitation for prostitution defense lawyer will assess the facts of your case and tailor a defense strategy best suited to your circumstances.

Q: How can a conviction for solicitation of prostitution affect me besides going to jail and paying a fine?

A: Aside from the obvious penalties, a conviction for solicitation of prostitution can have significant collateral consequences. Perhaps the most challenging consequence to face is the damage it can cause to your reputation and the potential strain it may put on your marriage and other relationships.

Moreover, your driver’s license could be suspended by the court, hindering your ability to commute to work, purchase groceries, and handle essential day-to-day tasks. Depending on the specific charges, a conviction for this offense could also pose challenges in finding or retaining employment.

Q: What is entrapment, and how can it impact my solicitation for prostitution case?

A: Entrapment is just one of several legal defenses that can be raised in a solicitation for prostitution case. If an undercover law enforcement officer pretends to be a prostitute and coerces you into soliciting their services in exchange for money, we, as your defense counsel, can argue that you were manipulated into acting against your natural inclination and committing the offense of solicitation.

Defense Lawyers for Prostitution Solicitation Cases in Lisbon

If you or someone you know has been arrested or charged with soliciting prostitution in Lisbon, it’s crucial to start planning your defense strategy. Consider the significant advantage of hiring a skilled Lisbon sex crimes lawyer from Youngstown Criminal Law Group as soon as possible. Our Lisbon sex crimes attorneys possess over 20 years of experience in handling various sex offense cases in Lisbon and other Ohio courts.

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, we understand the daunting nature of the legal process. Our dedicated Lisbon prostitution attorneys are committed to ensuring your success. Rest assured, we will be with you every step of the way, guiding you through Ohio’s courts. Don’t face these charges alone; secure the expertise and support you need.