It’s not uncommon in North Texas for law enforcement to initiate prostitution stings in an effort to catch the customers or so-called “Johns.” Being arrested for solicitation of prostitution is an embarrassing charge that can impact your family, finances and, in some cases, your freedom.
That’s why it’s imperative to contact a Fort Worth solicitation lawyer as soon as possible if you have been accused of soliciting a prostitute. It’s important to try and get in front of the charge as quickly as possible in an effort to lessen the impact it will have on your personal and professional life, as well as your reputation.
The experienced defense attorneys at Varghese Summersett have successfully represented countless clients accused of sex crimes. We will handle your case with sensitivity and discretion while working to resolve it in a manner that will leave your record clean.
Texas law makes no distinction between “prostitution” and “solicitation of prostitution.” Under Texas Penal Code §43.02, a person commits prostitution if he or she:
In other words, it doesn’t matter whether you are a buying or attempting to buy sex or selling or attempting to sell sex, it’s the same crime in the eyes of the law. It’s also important to stress that that sex doesn’t have to occur to be arrested and charged with prostitution. Prosecutors only have to prove that an agreement was made. That’s why so many people get arrested in sex stings – just making the deal and meeting up can lead to an arrest.
Prostitution, or solicitation or prostitution, can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on whether the defendant has prior charges and other factors. Here’s a breakdown of punishments stemming from solicitation and prostitution charges:
To be convicted of prostitution or solicitation, the prosecutor must prove several elements and this is not always easy – especially if you’ve got a savvy, experienced defense attorney. The defense can argue that the defendant didn’t know the other person was a prostitute or that a fee was never exchanged or agreed upon. Entrapment or duress could also come into play.
A seasoned Fort Worth solicitation attorneys at Varghese Summersett will listen to the facts and circumstances surrounding the allegation and tailor a defense strategy unique to your case.
Being accused of soliciting a prostitute could negatively impact your personal and professional life and leave an embarrassing blemish on your record. Contact our firm today to find out how we can help you can put this mistake behind you so you can move on with your life.
