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Solicitation Defense Lawyers in St. Louis, MO
Solicitation and prostitution charges in Missouri can cover a wide range of activities that may result in Class B Misdemeanors and other penalties.
Don't face these accusations without help. Reach out to our lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP for legal support.
An experienced solicitation defense attorney focuses on understanding the severity and intricacies of the solicitation charges that may result in significant penalties and lengthy sentences. Our role is to challenge evidence, question witness testimonies, identify procedural errors, and explore other factors that could support a defense or appeal. Throughout the legal process, our defense lawyers are dedicated to protecting the client's rights, reducing charges, and, when possible, to secure an acquittal.
Solicitation Charges in Missouri
In Missouri, soliciting prostitution is a charge that can be managed with experienced legal council. Some of the most common solicitation charges include:
- Prostitution: One of the most frequent solicitation charges, prostitution involves exchanging money or other compensation for sexual services.
- Solicitation of a Minor: Soliciting a minor in Missouri is a serious crime that carries severe penalties, including fines, felony charges, a mandatory minimum of five years in prison without parole, and probation upon release.
- Coerced Actions: Pressuring or coercing someone, or misrepresenting your age during a sexual act, can lead to significant legal consequences.
Sentences for Solicitation in Missouri | Defense Attorneys You Can Count On
Soliciting prostitution in Missouri is a serious offense with far-reaching consequences. Beyond the immediate threat of jail time and fines, these charges can severely damage your personal and professional life. A conviction can tarnish your reputation, make it difficult to find employment, and strain your relationships with loved ones. If you have been charged with prostitution or solicitation, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a skilled and aggressive criminal defense attorney to help protect your rights and minimize the potential consequences.
The penalties and consequences for soliciting prostitution in Missouri may include:
- Incarceration: Jail or prison time can lead to job loss, family separation, and challenges in rebuilding your life.
- Fines: Significant financial penalties, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, can burden you and your family.
- Probation: Strict monitoring, with conditions like regular check-ins, employment requirements, and restrictions on activities.
- Community Service: Volunteering for a set number of hours under supervision may be required.
- Court-Ordered Counseling: Attendance in counseling for behavior modification, addiction, or related issues might be mandated.
- HIV/AIDS Testing: Missouri law may require mandatory HIV/AIDS testing after conviction.
These consequences underline the importance of securing experienced legal representation to navigate the complexities of the legal system and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Defenses Against Solicitation Charges in Missouri
Prostitution-related activities and solicitation can result in several legal charges. However, it's important to remember that evidence is often circumstantial, and the burden is on the state to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Some common defenses against these charges include:
- Misrepresentation of Age: The defendant may have been deceived by a minor who falsely claimed to be of legal age, providing misleading information.
- Entrapment: This defense applies if law enforcement or other authorities pressured or coerced the defendant into committing a crime they would not have otherwise committed.
- Wrongful Accusation: The defendant might be wrongly accused due to mistaken identity, false allegations, or a misunderstanding of the communication's nature.
- Baseless Allegations: Sometimes, allegations are exaggerated or entirely fabricated, often stemming from malicious intent or a misunderstanding. A defense strategy can focus on identifying inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case to seek dismissal.
- No Sexual Intent: The defense might argue that the conversation or actions were innocent and taken out of context, with no sexual or criminal intent involved.
- Unauthorized Use of Device: If someone else used the defendant’s device (e.g., computer, phone, or social media account) during the alleged solicitation, the defense can demonstrate that the defendant was not responsible for any communications.
If you are facing prostitution or solicitation charges or have been in the past, there are expungement options and ways to maintain a clean record. The key is to work with an experienced solicitation attorney in St. Louis who can help you navigate the legal process. Our attorneys at Combs Waterkotte are here to help evaluate and litigate solicitation charges, prepare defenses, and guide you through the process. Our goal is to reduce or mitigate charges and, when possible, achieve a full dismissal.
Give us a call and contact our expert solicitation defense team based in St. Louis, MO.
