Dumfries Solicitation Lawyer

Soliciting another person for sexual favors is a crime. However, it can be difficult for a prosecutor to prove that the words a person said constituted a crime that would warrant a valid arrest. Whatever reason a person is accused of criminal activity, they have a right to defend themselves and protect their privacy.

The crime of solicitation does not require anything more than merely requesting a sexual act from another person in exchange for something of value. This means that an innocent conversation could result in an arrest if you are not careful. If you are worried about allegations or an arrest, you should speak with a Dumfries solicitation lawyer to see what you can expect. A dedicated criminal defense attorney could use the best defense strategies to reduce or avoid punishments related to a solicitation charge.

Solicitation Laws in Dumfries

Soliciting anyone to commit a crime is itself a chargeable offense. But typically, when referring to solicitation in a legal setting, it means requesting another person to engage in the act of prostitution. If the court convicts someone of solicitation, that person may need to undergo testing for HIV and Hepatitis C.

Solicitation of an Adult

If a person offers money or something else of value to induce another person to engage in a sexual act, and then does some other action which furthers this goal, that violates the Code of Virginia §18.2-346(B). A violation of this law is a Class 1 misdemeanor.  The punishment may include up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.

The law prohibits soliciting the following sexual acts in exchange for money:

• Cunnilingus
• Fellatio
• Anilingus
• Sexual intercourse
• Anal intercourse
• Touching of unclothed genitals with the intent to sexually arouse
• Incest
• Bestiality

Solicitation of a Minor

If a person attempts to have a minor agree to engage in sex for money, that is a felony. If the solicited person is 16 or 17 years old, the crime is a Class 6 felony and the court may send a convicted person to prison for up to five years. If the solicited person is 15 or younger, the act is a Class 5 felony. The offender may face up to ten years in prison.

A local sexual solicitation attorney could ensure that a defendant is given a fair trial and that all available evidence is presented on their behalf.

Offenses Related to Solicitation

On top of requesting sexual favors from another person to engage in prostitution, there are other criminal acts that a person could be charged with. These include:

• Frequenting a “bawdy place” for solicitation
• Transporting someone to engage in prostitution
• Picking up a person to engage in prostitution

If the other party involved is an adult, the criminal sanctions are those of a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, if the other party is a minor, the penalty is a Class 6 felony.

Learn About Defense Options from a Dumfries Solicitation Attorney

It is not uncommon for someone to get caught up in a police sting by communicating with the wrong person at the wrong time. Sometimes speaking with the police can lead to further allegations or miscommunications. Instead of trying to get the situation sorted out on your own, you might be best served by enlisting the aid of a Dumfries solicitation lawyer. Place a call now to see how legal counsel could help you protect your rights and reputation.