Phoenix Solicitation Lawyer

Phoenix Solicitation Attorney

In Phoenix, a criminal charge for soliciting the services of a prostitute is a serious matter. This act is prohibited under both the Arizona Revised Statutes and the Phoenix City Code, and both outline increasingly severe penalties for repeat offenses.

Support from a Phoenix solicitation lawyer can be crucial when it comes to mitigating the short-term and long-term repercussions of this kind of accusation. The former prosecutors, now dedicated defense attorneys, at Grand Canyon Law Group know how to tirelessly represent you in court and protect your rights, reputation, and way of life.

HOW STATE AND LOCAL LAWS ADDRESS SOLICITATION

Arizona Revised Statutes §13-3214 and Phoenix City Code §23-52 both prohibit city residents from knowingly and intentionally compensating someone else for any form of sexual contact or intercourse. The law also prohibits a person from:

• Offering to provide such services for compensation
• Attempting to offer compensation for such services
• Displaying intent to engage in or solicit prostitution in a public place.

Importantly, “compensation” in this context does not necessarily have to be monetary in nature. Anyone who offers, accepts, or provides anything of value in exchange for sexual services may be charged with a crime under these statutes.

ROLE OF INTENT IN PHOENIX SOLICITATION CHARGES

Furthermore, “intent” to solicit a prostitute can be somewhat subjective, especially when it comes to the justification that law enforcement authorities may use to arrest someone. During a private consultation, a local solicitation attorney at our firm can offer clarification about potential defense strategies tailored to a defendant’s unique situation. This may include an argument that the arresting officer(s) unlawfully entrapped the defendant into committing a criminal act.

POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF A CONVICTION FOR SOLICITING SEXUAL SERVICES

Solicitation is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor in Arizona. A first conviction in Phoenix is punishable by a minimum jail term of 15 consecutive days up to a maximum six-month sentence, as well as a maximum fine of $2,500 and mandatory completion of a court-ordered treatment or education program during a maximum three-year probation term.

SECOND CONVICTION

For a second conviction, the applicable minimum jail term is extended to 30 days. The convicted defendant must also make a $2,000 payment to the human trafficking prevention fund set up under Phoenix City Code §2-101.

THIRD AND SUBSEQUENT CONVICTIONS

A third conviction may result in a minimum 60-day jail sentence and a $2,250 minimum payment to the human trafficking prevention fund, in addition to other fines, surcharges, and probation terms. Fourth and subsequent violations may be filed as a class 5 felony are punishable by a mandatory six-month minimum term of imprisonment, a mandatory $2,500 fund payment, and other surcharges on top of potential probation. A prison sentence for a class 5 felony may be as long as 2.5 years.

PENALTIES FOR SOLICITING A MINOR

Anyone alleged to have solicited someone under 18 years old for sex may be charged with a felony child sex trafficking charge. If convicted, the person faces mandatory prison and sex offender registration. A dedicated lawyer at Grand Canyon Law Group can provide more detailed information about the potential penalties for a specific solicitation offense in Phoenix.

TALK TO A PHOENIX SOLICITATION ATTORNEY TODAY

Solicitation allegations can result in life-altering consequences even if you have never dealt with any criminal charges before. Give yourself the best chance of protecting your rights and way of life by speaking with a skilled attorney at our firm. Our Phoenix solicitation lawyers have significant experience successfully helping others in similar situations. Call us today to schedule a meeting and go over your legal options.

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