The State of Florida does not take sex crimes such as prostitution lightly. If you’re currently facing prostitution or solicitation charges, you’re likely not only experiencing fear over looming legal consequences, but also a degree of humiliation and anxiety over how this will affect your family and employment.
Because your freedom and reputation is at stake, it’s vital to enlist in the help of an experienced Florida sex crime attorney at Musca Law Firm before making any statements to officials. Devising a solid defense and aggressively preserving your rights is key to increasing the chances of a successful resolution for your case. With over 100 years of combined experience, attorneys at Musca Law have systematically honed their investigation methodologies and defense strategies to ensure that their clients receive the best possible criminal defense.
Defining Prostitution in Florida
Prostitution, as defined in Chapter 796 of the 2011 Florida Statutes, is the giving or receiving of the body for sexual activity for hire. If you’ve been accused of engaging in prostitution, it’s important to understand exactly what your charges and penalties entail, something your Florida sex crime attorney will be exceptionally instrumental with.
Florida law defines nine separate acts related to prostitution:
- Owning, establishing, or operating a place for the purpose of prostitution
- Offering or agreeing to secure another person for the engagement of prostitution
- Offering or allowing a person to engage in prostitution at a place or business
- Directing or transporting a person to a place of prostitution
- Offering or engaging in prostitution
- Soliciting, inducing, or enticing another person to engage in prostitution
- Residing or entering a place for the purpose of prostitution
- Purchasing the services of a person engaged in prostitution
- Abetting or participating in any of the acts detailed in the above acts (796.07)
Florida criminal law is complex and intricate; it’s imperative to have the experienced Musca criminal defense team to carefully assess your case, create a strategic, aggressive defense, and ensure your rights are upheld.
Florida Prostitution Penalties
Florida penalizes prostitution offenses based on the frequency of the violations, as well as the details surrounding the arrest. Prostitution penalties in Florida include:
- Up to 60 days in jail, six months’ probation, and $500 in fines for first time offenders, considered a second degree misdemeanor
- Up to 365 days in jail, 12 months’ probation, and $1000 in fines for second time offenders, considered a first degree misdemeanor
- Up to five years in prison, five years’ probation, and $5000 in fines for third time offenders, considered a third degree felony
Additionally, if convicted, you may also face HIV testing, driver’s license revocation, admission into intervention and/or drug abuse treatment programs, your name and photograph televised in a “Prostitutes and Johns” news segment, and possible loss of employment.
Because your freedom and future is on the line, you’ll want the best Florida sex crime attorneys available to thoroughly prepare your defense. Contact Musca Law today at one of our four offices in Miami, Jacksonville, Tampa or Orlando for a free confidential consultation, and improve the odds of reduced or dismissed charges.
