The act of prostitution involves two people. Just as it is illegal for a person to sell or offer to sell sexual contact, it is also illegal to purchase sex. The purchasing of sexual relations is legally known as “solicitation,” and a conviction for this charge could result in harsh penalties.
If you are facing criminal charges for solicitation, contact a skilled attorney as soon as possible. A Manhattan solicitation lawyer could explain the state’s laws, evaluate the behavior of all parties that led to the arrest, and defend your rights during all court hearings and talks with prosecutors.
Kansas Statute § 21-6421 is the state’s law concerning solicitation. This statute explains that it is illegal for any person to hire another for the purpose of obtaining sexual gratification. This may involve sexual intercourse but may also include oral sex or other forms of sexual contact.
However, solicitation can also encompass other behaviors. Another segment of the law says that it is illegal to be in any location where the sale of sexual services is being offered while having the intent to purchase those services. As a result, merely being in a place where prostitution is occurring may be sufficient to justify an arrest and conviction.
In most situations, convictions are class A person misdemeanors. This means that a court may impose a fine of up to $1,000, send a person to jail for up to one year, or both. A Manhattan solicitation attorney could help an individual better understand the charges levied against them.
There are certain situations where a solicitation conviction can bring enhanced punishments. The most straightforward is when the defendant has a prior conviction for this offense. This makes the offense a level 9, person felony. In addition, the court must impose a fine of at least $1,200 and could order a defendant to attend an educational course concerning the role that human trafficking plays in prostitution.
Another factor in determining the severity of an offense is the alleged sexual partner’s age. KS Statute § 21-6422 concerns the sexual exploitation of children. Participating in sexual conduct with a person under the age of 18 is usually a level 4, person felony. However, if an individual has a prior conviction or the sexual partner is under the age of 14, even harsher penalties can apply.
A Manhattan solicitation attorney is dedicated to helping people facing accusations involving the alleged purchasing of sex. They can work to evaluate the evidence that a prosecutor plans to bring to court and develop a defense that helps to raise doubts concerning that evidence’s legality and persuasiveness.
Allegations of solicitation are serious matters. Because of the wide definition of solicitation, charges are common and may be tricky to understand.
A Manhattan solicitation lawyer could protect your legal rights and freedom after an arrest. They could work with you to explain the laws that concern your case and identify the potential consequences for a conviction. With this information, you can make an informed choice concerning whether to work towards a plea deal or fight the charges in court. Contact our office today to get started on your case.
