If you've been charged with solicitation of a prostitute in Texas, you may be wondering what the penalties are. Unfortunately, the answer is not simple. The penalties can range from a misdemeanor to a felony and depend on various factors, such as the age of the prostitute and whether violence was involved.
In this blog post, we'll look at some of these factors and give you an idea of what you can expect if you're facing charges for solicitation of a prostitute.
How Harsh Are the Penalties for a Solicitation of a Prostitute Conviction in Texas?
In Texas, the law considers solicitation of a prostitute a criminal offense. Those who are found to be in violation of this law can face severe penalties, such as fines, jail time, and probation. The most severe penalty that may be imposed is up to 20 years in prison.
The following are the most common penalties that someone can face if they’re convicted for solicitation of a prostitute in Texas:
- First Offense – This is considered a state jail felony. The penalties for a conviction include up to $10,000 in fines and up to two years in jail.
- Second Offense – This is a third-degree felony. The penalties for a conviction include up to 10 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
- Offense Involving a Minor – If you are convicted of soliciting a prostitute who is under 18 years old, it is considered a second-degree felony. The penalties for a conviction include up to 20 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.
Besides Criminal Punishment, What Are Other Consequences for a Solicitation of a Prostitute Conviction in Texas?
While it may seem that criminal penalties alone are enough of a punishment for those who are convicted of soliciting prostitutes, they often face further repercussions. Many suffer from social stigma after the fact, which can negatively affect their mental health and relationships with family, friends, and co-workers.
In addition, a felony conviction can saddle you with a criminal record, which can negatively impact your life in several ways, including:
- Causing you to lose your right to vote.
- Making it difficult to find adequate housing (due to criminal background checks).
- Causing you to lose custody of your kids or visitation rights.
- Making it difficult to get hired for jobs (due to criminal background checks).
- Causing you to lose any professional licenses you have or security clearance.
- Making it difficult to qualify for mortgages and loans.
- Causing you to lose your right to possess firearms.
Are You Facing a Solicitation of a Prostitute Charge? Contact Our Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney for a Free Consultation
For over a quarter of a century, Attorney Derek A. Adame has been managing criminal cases in Texas. He began his career in the Harris County District Attorney’s Office as a prosecutor before founding his own law firm and becoming a criminal defense lawyer. Attorney Adame’s experience as a prosecutor gives him a leg up on the opposition because he understands the strategies they will use against his clients and how to combat them.
As his case results prove, Attorney Adame has a long history of helping those facing criminal charges secure the most favorable outcome possible for their situation, including helping clients get the charges against them reduced or dismissed.
To speak with Attorney Adame about your situation, give us a call at 940.441.4239 or reach out to us online today for a free consultation with our experienced solicitation of a prostitute defense lawyer in Denton.