If you’re facing prostitution charges in Indianapolis, IN, it’s essential to understand the potential consequences and your legal rights. Taking immediate action by contacting a criminal defense lawyer can significantly influence the outcome of your case.
A lawyer will offer you guidance and ensure that all defense strategies are carefully considered. For help with a prostitution charge or a related matter in Indianapolis, IN, contact our skilled team from Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers at (317) 759-2599 to schedule a free consultation with an Indianapolis prostitution lawyer.
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How Our Sex Crimes Attorneys Can Help You If You’ve Been Arrested for Prostitution
If you’re a defendant facing prostitution charges in Indianapolis, Indiana, Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers is equipped to provide the legal defense you need. Here’s how we can help:
- We analyze the circumstances of your arrest for any procedural errors or violations of your rights that might lead to getting your case dismissed or to a successful motion to suppress.
- Our team explores all avenues for plea deals or alternative sentencing options that may result in reduced consequences.
- If your case goes to trial, we will fight for you in court to give you the best chance at beating the charges against you.
For help with a prostitution-related charge in Indianapolis, Indiana, contact Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with an Indianapolis sex crime attorney.
Overview of Prostitution Charges in Indiana
In Indiana, individuals can face legal repercussions not only for engaging in prostitution but also for solicitation. Understanding the nuances of these charges is crucial for those facing prosecution.
Prostitution
Prostitution is defined as the act of knowingly engaging in or offering a sexual act in exchange for money or property. This means that a person directly involved in performing or proposing a sexual act for compensation can face criminal charges.
Solicitation
Solicitation is often referred to as patronizing a prostitute or unlawful proposition. This charge applies to individuals who knowingly offer to pay someone for a sexual act.
If the individual soliciting a prostitute engages in a sexual act with someone under the age of 16, they can also face a sexual misconduct charge.
Anyone facing a prostitution-related charge should reach out to a defense lawyer as soon as possible.
What Are the Penalties For Prostitution in Indianapolis, Indiana?
The penalties you face for these charges depend on your criminal history and the specifics of the situation.
Penalties for Prostitution
In Indiana, the act of prostitution is classified as a Class A misdemeanor for first-time or second-time offenders. This carries up to 365 days in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
If an individual has two previous, unrelated prostitution convictions, they can face increased charges – it can be charged as a level 6 felony. This carries up to 2.5 years in jail and a maximum fine of $10,000.
Penalties for Solicitation
Similar to prostitution, first-time or second-time solicitation offenses are deemed Class A misdemeanors, carrying the same penalties. For a third offense, this charge is also elevated to a level 6 felony.
If the solicitation involves an individual under the age of 16, the offender not only faces harsher penalties but may also confront long-lasting repercussions, including being required to register as a sex offender.
To give yourself the best chance of beating these charges and not spending time behind bars, contact a criminal defense attorney.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For Prostitution?
If you’ve been arrested for prostitution, there are several potential defenses you can raise in your case. Understanding these defenses can significantly impact the outcome and protect your rights during legal proceedings. Common ones include:
Lack of Evidence
A lack of evidence defense challenges the prosecution’s ability to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. For prostitution charges, it’s crucial for law enforcement to provide solid evidence demonstrating that both solicitation and sexual conduct were intended as part of an unlawful transaction. If the prosecution cannot present strong, credible proof, you could be acquitted.
Entrapment
Entrapment occurs when law enforcement induces an individual to commit a crime that they otherwise would not have attempted. However, under Indiana law, simply providing someone the opportunity to commit an offense does not constitute entrapment.
In practical terms, this means there needs to be more than just engagement with a police officer posing as either a prostitute or solicitor; evidence of coercion or pressure is essential for establishing an entrapment defense.
Mistaken Identity
Mistaken identity can be a valid defense if you were wrongly accused of engaging in prostitution. This often hinges on the credibility of the witness or arresting officer’s identification of you as the perpetrator.
If the evidence demonstrates that you were misidentified, it could lead to an acquittal. This defense is generally only viable if you were arrested sometime after the prostitution or solicitation was alleged to have taken place.
Seeking legal representation is the best way to determine what defense will give you the best chance at an acquittal.
Facing prostitution or solicitation charges isn’t something that should be taken lightly; it can lead to significant fines as well as jail time and other collateral consequences. The best way to protect yourself and fight back is to work with a criminal defense attorney experienced in this area of the law.
If you need help, contact Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with an Indianapolis prostitution lawyer.
