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At the Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A., we know that good people can find themselves in difficult situations. Our team approaches every case with discretion and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients. Our criminal defense attorneys at Problems? Pick Porter!™ understand that these charges often arise from sting operations that can border on entrapment, or from misinterpretations of innocent conversations.
Whether you were detained during a traffic stop or are facing accusations based on digital communications, hiring a qualified Ponte Vedra Beach solicitation lawyer is the most important step you can take toward clearing your name.
What Are the Solicitation Laws in Florida?
Florida law defines solicitation for prostitution broadly. It involves offering to commit, committing, or engaging in prostitution, lewdness, or assignation. It also includes soliciting, inducing, enticing, or procuring another person to commit these acts. Many people assume that a physical exchange of money must occur for an arrest to be made, but that is not always the case. Mere words or a verbal agreement can sometimes be enough for law enforcement to establish probable cause and move forward with an arrest. This is particularly common in the age of digital communication, where text messages or online chats are used as primary evidence.
Because St. Johns County is a tourist-friendly area with a high volume of visitors, local law enforcement utilizes resources to conduct “reverse stings.” In these operations, officers pose as sex workers online or on the street to entrap individuals. If you have been arrested during one of these operations, you need a solicitation defense attorney in Ponte Vedra Beach who can scrutinize the police report for errors. We look for procedural mistakes, lack of Miranda warnings, or violations of your constitutional rights that could lead to a dismissal or reduction of charges before the case even reaches a courtroom.
Penalties and Long-Term Consequences
A conviction for solicitation is generally classified as a second-degree misdemeanor for a first offense. While this might sound minor compared to felony charges, it is punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. However, the statutory penalties are often the least damaging part of a conviction. In Florida, a conviction for solicitation often carries mandatory civil penalties that can cost thousands of dollars, along with mandatory screening for sexually transmitted diseases. Additionally, if a vehicle was used during the commission of the act, you could face the revocation of your driver’s license.
The most severe damage often comes from the permanent criminal record, which is viewable by current and future employers, landlords, and anyone who runs a background check. A sex crime on your record can result in the loss of professional licenses, security clearances, and educational opportunities. Furthermore, if there are aggravating factors, such as a prior violation, the penalties increase drastically.
This is why it is crucial to consult with a lawyer for solicitation charges in Ponte Vedra Beach immediately. We work to mitigate these long-term consequences, often by negotiating for diversion programs for first-time offenders, which can result in the charges being dropped upon completion.
Defenses We Can Use to Protect You
When we provide legal representation for solicitation in Ponte Vedra Beach, we thoroughly investigate every detail of the interaction to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
- Entrapment: Proving the officer induced the crime through harassment or coercion.
- Lack of Evidence: Arguing that the audio or video recordings do not clearly show an agreement to exchange value for sexual acts.
- Mistake of Fact: Demonstrating a misunderstanding of the situation or the other party’s intent.
- Constitutional Violations: challenging the legality of the stop, search, or seizure of evidence.
After reviewing the specific facts of your case, we will build a robust defense strategy tailored to your circumstances. Our goal is to dismantle the prosecution’s case piece by piece, ensuring that your side of the story is heard and your rights are upheld.
Contact a Ponte Vedra Beach Solicitation Attorney Today
You deserve a legal team that will treat you with respect and dignity while aggressively defending your freedom. We are committed to minimizing the impact this charge has on your life.
Do not let one mistake or accusation define the rest of your life. Immediate action is required to preserve evidence and begin building your defense. Contact the Law Offices of Jason K.S. Porter, P.A., today to discuss your case in confidence. We are ready to stand by your side as your dedicated Ponte Vedra Beach solicitation lawyer. Problems? Pick Porter!™