Prostitution charges are a serious matter. These cases carry both actual penalties and a social stigma. Your freedom, job, and reputation may be at stake. If charged with a sex worker offense, you should immediately contact a Knoxville prostitution lawyer. The seasoned criminal defense attorneys at Price Benowitz could provide you with an explanation of your legal rights and work to protect them at all times.
Defined as engaging in or offering sexual activity for compensation, prostitution is a Class B misdemeanor in most cases. Class B misdemeanors are punishable by a fine of up to $500 and six months in jail. Prostitution charges are a Class A misdemeanor when the offense occurs within 100 feet of a church or 1.5 miles of a school. If this happens, you could face a $2,500 fine and an 11-month, 29-day jail sentence.
Hiring a sex worker, known as patronizing prostitution, is also a Class A misdemeanor with comparable penalties. Additionally, promoting prostitution, such as managing a brothel, soliciting customers, or recruiting workers, is a Class E felony. This crime is punishable by imprisonment for one to six years and a fine of up to $3,000. If the person promoted is a minor or has an intellectual disability, the offense becomes a higher felony (Class A), which carries harsher penalties.
Aggravated prostitution is a unique and controversial category, which is a Class C felony and imposed if you knowingly engage in prostitution while living with HIV. This offense carries a sentence of three to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
An experienced attorney in Knoxville could explain the different types of prostitution charges in more detail.
There are several defenses available if you face prostitution charges:
A knowledgeable lawyer from Price Benowitz in Knoxville could evaluate the facts of your prostitution charges and assert appropriate legal strategies to protect your rights and future. They could review your case to determine whether you have any applicable defenses.
You face serious consequences if charged with any type of crime involving allegations of prostitution. Not only is there potential jail time, but your reputation is also at risk. You should obtain immediate legal representation to learn about your legal rights in a prostitution case and how to advocate for yourself.
Beyond legal defense, having a local attorney who understands Knoxville’s courts, prosecutors, and judges gives you a strategic advantage when facing prostitution charges. Your lawyer could also provide guidance and emotional support during a stressful time, always upholding your rights and helping you minimize the impact on your future, career, and reputation.
A skilled attorney could thoroughly examine the facts, scrutinize the legality of police procedures, and look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. They may also be able to negotiate a favorable plea deal, seek diversion programs to avoid a conviction, or fight for a full dismissal in court.
You cannot afford to delay the reality of the situation when arrested for a prostitution-related crime. A Knoxville prostitution lawyer from Price Benowitz relies on years of legal practice, academic study, and an extensive network of fellow attorneys to relentlessly fight your charges.
Schedule a free case evaluation with one of our capable attorneys today.
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