Clarkston Solicitation Lawyer

Solicitation and prostitution are classified as serious sexual offenses in Michigan, carrying potentially life-altering consequences. A conviction could result in the loss of family, friendships, access to your children, and even your job or career. Given the high stakes, it is crucial to seek assistance from an experienced Clarkston solicitation lawyer who can advocate for your rights and work to minimize the impact of the charges against you.

Understanding Solicitation Offenses

Solicitation occurs when an individual seeks or invites another person to engage in sexual acts in exchange for payment. The solicitation can occur publicly or privately through spoken words, gestures, written communication, or other means.

Misdemeanor Solicitation

Under Michigan Compiled Laws § 750.448, solicitation is generally charged as a misdemeanor:

• First Offense: Up to 93 days in jail and a $500 fine.
• Second Offense: Still a misdemeanor but carries enhanced penalties of up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Felony Solicitation

A third conviction or more escalates the charge to a felony, carrying severe penalties, including:

• Prison sentences extending beyond one year.
• Thousands of dollars in fines.
• Loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to possess firearms.

Felony convictions can have long-lasting repercussions, including difficulty securing employment or housing.

Related Charges

Several other offenses related to solicitation and prostitution are classified as felonies, including:

• Inducing another person to engage in prostitution.
• Pimping or profiting from prostitution.
• Transporting individuals for prostitution.
• Operating a house of prostitution.

These charges may carry sentences of up to 20 years in prison, making it critical to consult a Clarkston solicitation attorney who can help avoid these harsh penalties.

Law Enforcement Sting Operations

Many solicitation arrests arise from law enforcement sting operations, where officers attempt to entrap individuals suspected of soliciting prostitution. Common tactics include:

• Street Stings: Undercover female officers posing as prostitutes in areas frequented by solicitation suspects.
• Online Stings: Law enforcement placing advertisements on social media platforms or classified ad websites like Craigslist to lure individuals.

Such operations can result in wrongful arrests, especially in cases of miscommunication or mistaken identity.

Building a Defense Against Solicitation Charges

A skilled solicitation attorney in Clarkston can challenge the evidence and tactics used during the arrest. They may examine whether law enforcement adhered to legal procedures and protected your constitutional rights, such as freedom from unlawful searches and entrapment.

Possible defense strategies include:

1. Proving that no explicit agreement for payment was made.
2. Demonstrating that the individual was unaware of the nature of the transaction.
3. Questioning the reliability of evidence obtained during sting operations.

Call a Clarkston Solicitation Attorney for Advice Today

Facing solicitation charges can be an overwhelming experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. A Clarkston solicitation lawyer can analyze the circumstances of your case, build a solid defense, and protect your rights throughout the legal process.

Don’t let a solicitation charge define your future.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward safeguarding your freedom and reputation.

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