Frisco, TX Prostitution Defense Lawyers

Knowledgeable Attorneys for Prostitution, Solicitation, and Related Charges in Frisco, Texas

While people may have a certain idea of what prostitution looks like, there are many scenarios in which a person may face criminal charges related to prostitution. Any situation where money or something of value may be exchanged for sexual conduct could lead to prostitution charges. Since prostitution is a sex crime, people who are charged with this type of offense may face serious legal consequences and reputational damage that could affect their personal and professional lives.

Texas lawmakers and prosecutors have taken increasingly aggressive steps to combat what they view as human trafficking and commercial sex operations. As a result, law enforcement officials will be more likely to arrest people who are suspected of these offenses, and the penalties for a conviction can be severe.

The attorneys at Barbieri Law Firm understand the complex legal and social dynamics that may play a role in cases involving prostitution charges. We provide our clients with nonjudgmental representation, helping them defend against criminal charges and avoid or minimize the penalties of a conviction. We can challenge the evidence, identify procedural errors, negotiate for reduced penalties, or seek case dismissals. At all times, we work to protect the rights of our clients and help them minimize the effects on their futures.

Understanding Prostitution Charges Under Texas Law

Under Section 43.02 of the Texas Penal Code, prostitution is defined as knowingly offering or agreeing to receive some form of payment in exchange for engaging in sexual intercourse or other sexual conduct. Both the person offering the sexual services and the person offering the payment may be charged with a crime.

A person convicted of prostitution may face escalating penalties based on the number of prior convictions. A first offense may result in Class B misdemeanor charges, and a conviction may be punishable by a sentence of up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000. A second or third offense may lead to Class A misdemeanor charges with potential penalties including up to one year in jail and/or a maximum fine of $4,000. Any subsequent offenses may be charged as state jail felonies, with potential penalties including a sentence ranging from six months to two years, as well as a potential fine as high as $10,000.

Solicitation of Prostitution

Texas law treats solicitation of prostitution, which is defined as offering or agreeing to pay someone for sexual conduct, as a separate offense from prostitution. Under Section 43.021 of the Texas Penal Code, a first offense is classified as a state jail felony. A second or subsequent offense could lead to third-degree felony charges, which carry a potential prison sentence between two and 10 years.

Solicitation charges are more serious if they involve minors. A person who is accused of soliciting prostitution from a person who is under the age of 18 may be charged with a second-degree felony, which may increase the maximum prison sentence to 20 years.

Promotion of Prostitution and Compelling Prostitution Charges

Texas law also criminalizes acts related to organizing, managing, or profiting from prostitution. These offenses carry significantly higher penalties than prostitution or solicitation alone.

Promotion of prostitution (Texas Penal Code Section 43.03) involves receiving money or other benefits in exchange for arranging or participating in prostitution transactions. This includes managing or profiting from a prostitution business or accepting payment on behalf of a person who engages in prostitution. A related offense, online promotion of prostitution (Texas Penal Code Section 43.031) may apply if a person is accused of owning or operating a website or online service that facilitates prostitution. These offenses may be charged as third degree felonies, although second-degree felony charges may apply if an offense involved a person who was under the age of 18.

The offense of compelling prostitution (Texas Penal Code Section 43.05) involves the use of force, threats, or coercion to cause someone to engage in prostitution. It may also apply in any situation where a person is accused of causing a minor under the age of 18 to engage in prostitution, regardless of whether force or threats were used. Compelling prostitution is classified as a first-degree felony, and a conviction may lead to a prison sentence of between five and 99 years.

Defending Against Prostitution-Related Charges

The attorneys at Barbieri Law Firm take a strategic approach to defending clients charged with prostitution-related crimes. These cases may involve police stings, surveillance, and electronic communication, all of which can be flawed or misinterpreted. Early intervention will help our team gather and preserve key evidence, identify constitutional violations, and prepare an effective legal response to accusations related to prostitution.

Steps our team may take include:

• Reviewing how law enforcement conducted investigations, including potential entrapment or improper undercover tactics
• Analyzing whether constitutional rights were violated during search warrants or arrests
• Evaluating the credibility of witnesses, informants, or police officers involved in a case
• Challenging vague or overly broad allegations, especially when a person is accused of promotion of prostitution or compelling prostitution
• Negotiating with prosecutors to reduce charges, request alternative sentencing, or dismissals when appropriate

Every case is unique, and our attorneys will build customized defense strategies based on the specific facts of a situation and the goals of our clients. We understand the emotional and social factors that may be involved in these cases. We treat every client with discretion and professionalism, working to protect their reputations while defending against convictions.

Contact Our Frisco Prostitution Defense Attorneys

If you have been charged with prostitution, solicitation, or a related offense, it is essential to act quickly to protect your rights. The attorneys at Barbieri Law Firm can help you fight the charges and minimize the impact on your life. Contact our Frisco, TX prostitution and solicitation lawyers at 972-424-1902 to schedule a free consultation and begin building your defense.