Washington DC Prostitution Lawyer
Skilled DC Prostitution Attorney
Prostitution, or the exchange of sexual favors for money, is illegal in nearly every state, including the District of Columbia. Although many people may consider prostitution to be a nonviolent, victimless crime, law enforcement officials aggressively seek arrests for these acts in an attempt to “crack down on crime” and appeal to a sense of moral justice in the community.
If you have been charged with prostitution in DC, you probably fear the devastating effects on your personal life as much as the legal consequences of your action. A skilled prostitution attorney can help. With the legal knowledge and the resources to fight your charge, the DC Prostitution Lawyers at our firm can closely evaluate your case to work to build the best possible defense, mitigating any legal or personal ramifications.
DC Prostitution Free Zones
To combat prostitution, the Metropolitan Police Department enforces anti-loitering laws in “Prostitution Free Zones” for defined periods of time in areas with disproportionately high numbers of arrests for prostitution-related offenses. While a Prostitution Free Zone is in effect, it is unlawful for “a group of two or more persons to congregate on public space within that area for the purpose of engaging in prostitution or prostitution-related offenses.” First, a police officer will issue a warning to anyone in violation of the law explaining that they are in a Prostitution Free Zone and directing them to disperse. Ignoring or disobeying the officer’s instruction could lead to arrest, even without a second warning. Offenders convicted under the law are subject to a fine of up to $300, imprisonment for up to 180 days, or both.
Understanding the Crime of Prostitution in DC
Generally, people think of prostitution as the performing of sexual favors in return for money. However, in DC, prostitution is defined as sexual contact with another person in exchange for the giving or receiving of a fee. Because of this, both a prostitute and his or her solicitor could be charged with DC prostitution.
Given the seriousness of a charge for prostitution, anyone arrested for prostitution in DC or anyone who suspects that they may be under investigation should immediately contact a skilled attorney to begin crafting a successful defense strategy.
How A DC Prostitution Lawyer Can Help
If you have been arrested and charged with prostitution or solicitation in Washington DC, you may feel trapped, frightened, and alone. However, experienced attorneys know that there are several options for your defense. If you were arrested as a result of a sting operation, the procedures of your arrest could have led to entrapment, which could result in a dismissal of all charges. Likewise, if your arrest came without a proper warrant, your arrest may have been illegal and your charges could be dropped. Finally, an attorney may advise you that, in light of the case against you and the devastating impact these charges could have on your personal life and career, your best option may be to plead guilty to a lesser charge or to participate in a prostitution diversion program in exchange for the dismissal of your charges.
An experienced DC Prostitution Attorney stands ready to use the full spectrum of his skills and resources to discreetly, yet vigorously, defend your good name. Please call (202) 529-9374 for a free consultation with one of our DC Prostitution Lawyers.