L.A. Criminal Law Attorney Fights Your Solicitation Charge

Facing a solicitation charge in Los Angeles can lead to significant legal consequences. Under California Penal Code section 647(b), solicitation is defined as the act of requesting another person to engage in prostitution. Similarly, engaging in or agreeing to perform a lewd act for compensation is classified as prostitution. Both are prosecuted as misdemeanors, meaning they cannot be escalated to felony charges under PC 647(b). However, the gravity of these offenses should not be underestimated, as they are considered crimes of moral turpitude and can carry penalties that increase with subsequent convictions.

Penalties for Solicitation Conviction in Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, being convicted of solicitation under California Penal Code section 647(b) requires the state to establish clear evidence of your intent to engage in prostitution. Merely nodding or winking at someone suspected of being a prostitute is insufficient for conviction. The prosecution must prove a deliberate intent to solicit sexual services.

If found guilty of solicitation, the legal consequences can include:

  • A maximum of six months in county jail.
  • Fines up to $1,000.
  • Suspension of your driver’s license for up to 30 days, particularly if the offense occurred in a vehicle within 1,000 feet of a residential area.

What if an undercover officer encourages the solicitation?

In Los Angeles, it’s common for police to conduct sting operations where officers pose as prostitutes or pimps to arrest individuals for solicitation. If an undercover officer employs tactics like pressure, harassment, fraud, flattery, or threats, leading you to commit acts you wouldn’t normally engage in, an entrapment defense might be applicable.

However, it’s important to understand that entrapment in legal terms is specific. Simply being presented with the opportunity to engage in sexual activities with a prostitute does not qualify as entrapment. For a successful entrapment defense, it must be demonstrated that the officer’s actions would have likely induced a normally law-abiding person to commit the crime.

Reducing solicitation charges

Depending on your criminal history and the skill of your defense lawyer, it may be possible to reduce a solicitation charge to a charge of disturbing the peace. This can protect your personal and professional reputation. To increase your chances of reducing the charges, call a defense lawyer immediately after your arrest.

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Charged with Prostitution or Solicitation? Protect Your Rights Today

A charge of prostitution or solicitation in California can lead to damaging consequences, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record that could impact your future opportunities. If you’ve been accused of prostitution or solicitation, it’s crucial to take immediate action to defend yourself against these serious allegations.

At The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we understand the stigma attached to these charges and how they can affect your life. With over 20 years of experience defending clients in Los Angeles, we’ll work tirelessly to build a strong defense, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and protect your rights every step of the way. Whether it’s negotiating to reduce charges or fighting for a dismissal, we are committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case.

Don’t leave your future to chance. If you’ve been charged with prostitution or solicitation, contact our office at (310) 448-1529 or schedule a consultation with Attorney Arash Hashemi using our secure online system. We will review your case, explain your options, and fight for your freedom and reputation.

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Our office is conveniently located in Westside Towers, serving clients throughout Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood. Contact us today to take the first step toward protecting your future.

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Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to predict outcomes, as individual circumstances vary and laws may change over time. Those seeking legal advice should consult with a qualified attorney to understand how current laws apply to their specific situation. For detailed legal guidance on the topics discussed, please contact our law firm directly.