In California, offering or soliciting illegal sexual services is a serious offense with severe legal consequences. Whether you’re involved in prostitution or accused of soliciting such services, it’s important to understand the laws and potential penalties involved. In this blog post, we will explain the legal ramifications of illegal sexual services in California and how an experienced attorney can help you navigate these complex issues.
What Constitutes Illegal Sexual Services in California?
Illegal sexual services typically refer to acts of prostitution, where an individual engages in sexual activity in exchange for money or goods. Under California Penal Code Section 647(b), both the individual offering sexual services and the person soliciting those services can be charged with a crime. The law criminalizes not only the act but also the negotiation or agreement to exchange money for sexual acts, even if the act is not completed.
Penalties for Offering or Soliciting Illegal Sexual Services
Misdemeanor Charges
Most cases involving illegal sexual services are prosecuted as misdemeanors. A conviction can result in up to six months in jail, fines of up to $1,000, and a criminal record that can affect future employment and housing opportunities. Repeat offenses carry harsher penalties, including mandatory jail time and increased fines.
Additional Consequences
Beyond the legal penalties, a conviction for engaging in or soliciting illegal sexual services can damage your reputation, personal relationships, and career. In some cases, individuals may also face civil lawsuits if the illegal activity occurred in a business setting, such as a massage parlor or other establishment.
Aggravating Factors in Illegal Sexual Service Cases
Human Trafficking Involvement
If an illegal sexual service case involves human trafficking or the exploitation of minors, the charges and penalties become far more severe. Under California Penal Code Section 236.1, trafficking for sexual purposes is a felony and carries a lengthy prison sentence.
Organized Criminal Activity
Law enforcement agencies are increasingly focused on cracking down on organized prostitution rings, which can lead to additional charges related to money laundering, conspiracy, and other serious crimes. If your case involves organized criminal activity, the penalties can be significantly higher.
Legal Defenses Against Illegal Sexual Service Charges
Entrapment
One common defense in these cases is entrapment, where law enforcement officers pressure or coerce someone into committing a crime they would not otherwise commit. If you were lured into offering or soliciting sexual services by an undercover officer, your attorney may be able to argue entrapment as a defense.
Lack of Evidence
In many cases, prosecutors rely on sting operations or undercover police work to gather evidence. However, if the evidence is weak or if there is insufficient proof that an agreement for illegal sexual services occurred, the charges may be dismissed.
The Importance of Legal Representation
If you are facing charges related to illegal sexual services, it is critical to consult with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. These cases can be complex, and the consequences of a conviction are serious. An experienced lawyer can evaluate the specifics of your case, identify potential defenses, and work to secure the best possible outcome.
Illegal sexual services charges can lead to life-altering consequences, but with the right legal defense, it may be possible to reduce or dismiss the charges. If you’re facing such accusations, contact Law Advocate Group, LLP today for expert legal assistance in navigating these sensitive cases.
