The laws surrounding sex work and prostitution are complicated in Junction City. The state has several statutes in place that have been updated to further penalize parties accused of the behavior. Prostitution charges can have unwanted long-term effects, including a damaged reputation, fines, and even jail time.
If you have been charged for prostitution or purchasing sex acts, you retain the right to collaborate with a knowledgeable attorney. A Junction City prostitution lawyer could work with you to understand the nuances of your case and carefully craft a legal defense, potentially resulting in a reduction or even a dismissal of charges.
Under Kansas Statutes §21-6419, it is illegal to sell sexual relations for hire, perform sexual relations for hire, or engage in sexual intercourse, sodomy, or other bodily contact stimulation in exchange for money. In 2013, state legislature raised the penalty for alleged prostitution. Prostitution charges are now classified as Class A misdemeanors with the potential for a judge to recommend jail time of up to one year. Accused parties may also face fines of up to $2,500.
Any parties accused of prostitution multiple times will see these consequences grow more severe with each charge. Secondary offenses can result in a severity level 9 felony and a mandatory fine of $5,000.
Under state law, it is also illegal to:
The buying of sexual relations can result in just as many penalties as the sale of sexual relations. Parties who purchase sexual relationships with one or more individuals can face fines of up to $2,500 for their first infraction, with that fine rising to $5,000 if they go to court again. These parties may also be subject to a Class A misdemeanor or a severity level 9 felony, depending on whether or not it is their first offense.
Penalties for sex work and prostitution charges can be complicated due to the unique factors of each case. A skilled local attorney could help someone facing charges for prostitution to understand the potential penalties and develop a robust defense.
State legislature does make alterations to its standing prostitution statutes in two regards. Children and victims of sex trafficking are not held accountable in the eyes of the law if they have been sold by another party. In these cases, the court turns its eyes to those parties who sold these individuals.
Any individuals who engaged with parties under the age of 18 may also be required to register as a sex offender. These parties may remain in the state’s sex registry for up to 15 years. Additionally, Jessica’s Law which is codified under Kansas Statutes § 21-6627 that any parties involved in the sale of minors or who engage in sexual acts with minors can face between 25 and 40 years in prison. Those facing charges for sexual acts with children in Junction City should consult with a lawyer well-versed in prostitution cases to review their legal options and rights.
Escort practices are legal under state law. This means that any person may hire another to walk with them, attend events with them, and keep them company. So long as the monetary contract formed between these two people does not involve sex acts, no party can be charged for this behavior.
An individual that believes that they have been wrongfully charged for hired services should speak with a prostitution lawyer. A legal professional could assess the charges someone is facing and help determine whether they are fair and valid.
All parties accused of prostitution and sex work in the state of Kansas have the right to legal counsel. If you or a loved one are facing these kinds of accusations, it is in your best interests to get in touch with a Junction City prostitution lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced attorney could discuss your charges with you in more detail and determine the best steps for you given the individual aspects of your case. Call today to schedule your first case consultation.
