Frequently, television shows portray prostitution in a dazzling light. But in the real world, it may be a bit darker, and it is indeed a crime. There may also be social issues associated with this act. Regardless of your view, the police are on the hunt for those who engage in sexual acts for money. This means that you could face an accusation just by keeping the wrong company or being in a place under investigation.
If the government is pursuing legal actions against you, you may be worried about your reputation or future freedom. If convicted, you could face fines, jail time and probation. An attorney may be helpful in for you to understand what may happen and how you may wish to proceed. Enlist the services of a Fredericksburg prostitution lawyer to learn more. A skilled legal representative may be a vital part of your plan to protect yourself.
The law classifies prostitution as a crime which violates moral decency. While some people may consider it a victimless crime, the government has decided it harms society and must be stopped. It does not matter if both parties to an act of prostitution agree. The police will arrest anyone they catch offering sexual favors in exchange for something of value.
A person does not have to commit an act of prostitution for the government to arrest that person. Even offering to engage in some prohibited action is punished the same as actually carrying the act out, as noted in Code of Virginia §18.2-346. But that must have also done something in furtherance of the act.
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor to do the following or offer to do the following for money:
If convicted of prostitution, the court may sentence someone to up to one year in jail and force that person to pay a fine of up to $2,500. Also, the law requires that a convicted person the police find with needles or injected drugs submit to a test for HIV and hepatitis C. That person must also attending counseling.
It is also a type of prostitution to run, live in or visit a “bawdy place” where acts of prostitution take place. If a person helps another person engage in prostitution or travel to a meeting place, the government also punishes that act as prostitution. A person may not allow another person to use their car to engage in sex for money or travel to a spot where such an act s planned.
If a person acts as a pimp or forces another person to engage in sex against their will, that is a Class 4 felony, as found in Code of Virginia §18.2-356. The court may send a person to jail for two to ten years and order that person to pay a fine of up to $100,000.
It is possible for misunderstandings to lead to an accusation of prostitution. No matter why the police are pursuing sanctions against you, you may need legal protection. Do not hesitate seek out help which may be vital for your plan of defense.
Schedule a consultation with a Fredericksburg prostitution lawyer to learn more about the possible legal consequences of a conviction and how you may be able to avoid that outcome. You have the right to speak with an attorney and may find it makes a significant difference in your case.
Northern Virginia Criminal Defense Group
