Facing an investigation or charges related to solicitation can bring consequences that extend beyond criminal penalties, potentially affecting one’s community standing, relationships, and career.
When accused of solicitation in Texas, it’s crucial to act swiftly by seeking the assistance of our skilled solicitation lawyers who can guide you through the legal process. Consult with our reputable sex crimes attorneys to understand the charges against you and develop a strategy for a robust defense.
Laws Against Solicitation in Texas
Solicitation is categorized under the broader crime of prostitution and typically constitutes a Class B misdemeanor in Texas. According to the Texas penal code, an individual is deemed guilty of a prostitution offense if they “solicit another in a public place to engage with the actor in sexual conduct for hire.” Notably, a person can face solicitation charges even if no money changed hands and no actual sexual conduct occurred. The potential penalties for a Class B misdemeanor include up to 180 days of jail time and fines reaching $2,000.
More severe charges are applicable to individuals with previous convictions related to solicitation and prostitution. A third charge, following two prior convictions, elevates the offense to a Class A misdemeanor, carrying potential penalties of up to one year in jail and fines up to $4,000. With three prior convictions, the charge becomes a state jail felony, inviting imprisonment ranging from 180 days to two years and fines up to $10,000.
Crimes Related to Solicitation
Beyond solicitation, other crimes associated with prostitution include “aggravated promotion of prostitution” and “compelling prostitution.” Aggravated promotion of prostitution, commonly known as pimping or pandering, is usually prosecuted as a third-degree felony, bringing significant penalties of two to 10 years in jail and fines up to $10,000.
Compelling prostitution, a charge applicable when an individual causes another to commit prostitution through force, threat, or fraud, or induces a minor into prostitution, is a second-degree felony. Penalties for compelling prostitution include imprisonment for two to 20 years and fines reaching $10,000.
Facing a solicitation charge can be daunting, especially if wrongly accused. It is imperative to secure competent legal representation from our team of solicitation lawyers promptly for the best chance of a favorable outcome.
Possible Defenses for Solicitation Charges in Texas
In many solicitation cases, individuals may find themselves in challenging situations due to misunderstandings or being at the wrong place and time. Consenting adults engaging in consensual activities without any intent of payment can result in a Texas defense attorney arguing that no crime has occurred.
Law enforcement often employs various tactics, including sting operations, to apprehend individuals involved in solicitation. If you were arrested during a sting operation that amounted to entrapment, legal avenues may exist for punishment against law enforcement and potential reduction or dismissal of charges.
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