Soliciting a prostitute is illegal in Florida; it is a sex crime under the 2011 Florida Statutes. Sex crime laws, definitions, punishments and other legislative mandates concerning sex crimes are detailed in TITLE XLVI CRIMES, including the prohibition against prostitution in Chapter 796.07.
What is Prostitution?
- In 796.07 – 1(a), the official definition of prostitution is “the giving or receiving of the body for sexual activity for hire but excludes sexual activity between spouses.”
- Subsection 2(f) makes it illegal to “solicit, induce, entice, or procure another to commit prostitution, lewdness, or assignation.”
- 2(i) states that it is illegal “to purchase the services of any person engaged in prostitution.”
Penalty for Soliciting a Prostitute
A person who solicits a prostitute is breaking Florida sex crime laws. Violation of this act in any way is punishable as indicated in the statutes:
- (4)(a) A misdemeanor of the second degree for a first violation, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
- (b) A misdemeanor of the first degree for a second violation, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
- (c) A felony of the third degree for a third or subsequent violation, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.
In addition, if a person solicits a prostitute, they may be fined $500 if the judicial disposition is something other than an acquittal or a dismissal. Soliciting a person under age 18 for prostitution is a second degree felony that will result in a prison sentence.
What if you are a Suspect?
If you have been questioned about soliciting a prostitute, or if you have been caught up in a sting operation conducted by law enforcement, understand that this may escalate to a serious sex crime charge. If you are found guilty of this crime, you may be listed on the National Sex Offender Registry if the offense is a felony crime. Even though some believe it is a victimless sex offense, penalties for prostitution that involve underage children or other vulnerable persons will be classified as a felony offense rather than a misdemeanor.
Do not delay in contacting a sex crime lawyer if you are in danger of facing charges for this sex crime. Call one of the experienced sex crime attorneys at Musca Law immediately to review your case. They are waiting to hear from you at (800) 687-2252, in offices across Florida including Miami, Orlando, Tampa and Jacksonville, and online by using the website contact form. You are innocent of any sex crime until proven guilty; do not delay in seeking legal representation from experienced attorneys that know Florida sex crime laws and who can help you retain your freedom.
