A solicitation charge is one that can greatly impact your reputation, career, and basic freedoms. Sex-related crimes are vigorously pursued by prosecutors, regardless of the circumstances of the case. If convicted, these charges can lead to high fines, jail time, and other severe consequences.
However, a strong legal defense from a skilled attorney could make all the difference in your case. With the help of a North Charleston solicitation lawyer, you could put yourself in a better position to successfully fight the allegations against you and protect your rights.
What is the Definition of Solicitation?
State law does not actually contain a separate definition of “solicitation.” Instead, South Carolina Code 16-15-90 includes the solicitation of a prostitute under its prostitution laws. These charges include:
- Procuring or soliciting prostitution
- Knowingly aiding or abetting prostitution
- Receiving a person into any place for prostitution
- Taking a person into a vehicle for the purposes of prostitution
- Entering into or residing in a place of prostitution
While any of these acts may lead to a prostitution charge, procuring or soliciting a prostitution is the act that many commonly refer to as solicitation.
Importantly, a person does not have to complete the transaction in order to be charged with solicitation. A request for someone to engage in or procure prostitution for themselves or others is sufficient for the charge. Solicitation is incredibly common in undercover busts where no sexual acts ever occur.
Consequences of a Conviction for Solicitation
Under Code Section 16-15-110, a conviction for solicitation or prostitution will result in the penalties set forth in that statute, including:
- First Violation: Punishable by up to thirty days in jail, a fine of $200, or both.
- Second Violation: Punishable by a maximum of six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
- Third and Subsequent Violations: Punishable by a minimum jail term of one year and a fine of up to $3,000.
These potential fines and jail sentences can have a lasting impact on a defendant’s life. A proactive defense may be necessary to prevent or reduce these penalties, so it is important for a person charged for solicitation in North Charleston to seek legal counsel as soon as possible.
Collateral Consequences
Solicitation and prostitution crimes leave a mark on a person’s record, and these charges will show up in background checks. This can greatly damage a person’s reputation and their ability to find employment, utilize special licenses, and pursue educational goals. To protect a defendant’s future opportunities, it is crucial for them to retain a persistent solicitation attorney to fight these allegations.
What are Defenses for Solicitation Charges?
Solicitation charges require a strong defensive effort regardless of whether it is a first or subsequent offense. Every person has the constitutional right to present a defense for the charges against them. Possible strategies for fighting solicitation charges include, but are not limited to:
- Demonstrating that no solicitation occurred
- Filing a motion to suppress evidence
- Presenting reasonable doubt to the jury
- Negotiating a plea
- Proving mistaken identity
Too often, defendants believe that it is pointless to fight back, assuming the prosecutor is going to win. However, a consultation with a local solicitation attorney could make all the difference in the outcome of a case.
Consult with a North Charleston Solicitation Defense Attorney
If you were recently accused of soliciting prostitution, you have every right to fight back. Defenses to these charges exist and can be applied based on the circumstances of your unique case. An experienced North Charleston solicitation lawyer could help build a defense uniquely tailored to your circumstances. Contact the skilled legal team at Adams & Bischoff today to discuss your case.
