Carroll County Prostitution Lawyer
Crimes connected with prostitution are treated more seriously in Carroll County than they used to be. Prompted by concerns about exploitation of minors and human trafficking, law enforcement officials no longer issue a slap on the wrist and then turn away. Anyone involved with prostitution may face serious penalties.
However, a Carroll County prostitution lawyer could employ numerous defensive tactics to fight the charges and minimize the negative consequences. When you work with a criminal lawyer familiar with the prosecution of prostitution offenses in Carroll County, you gain an advocate who will work with you throughout the process to help reach a positive outcome.
The Crime of Prostitution Under State Law
The state criminal code defines prostitution in Md. Code, Crim. Law §11-301 as “the performance of a sexual act, sexual contact, or vaginal intercourse for hire.” The acts involved are defined in detail in Md. Code, Crim. Law §3-301. An act may be performed “for hire” when money is provided, but also when a person delivers anything of value in exchange for the act.
An individual commits the crime of prostitution under Md. Code, Crim. Law §11-306 when they engage in either prostitution or assignation. An assignation refers to scheduling an appointment to engage in prostitution or taking action to further an act of prostitution.
The definitions of acts that constitute prostitution can be interpreted broadly so that very little action is required to trigger a violation of the statute. However, depending on the circumstances, a Carroll County prostitution lawyer may be able to argue that conduct alleged to violate the law did not constitute a criminal offense.
Penalties for Prostitution Crimes in Carroll County
The basic offenses of prostitution or assignation may be treated as misdemeanors, but the law classifies many other prostitution crimes as felonies. Enticing a minor under the age of 16 into prostitution, for instance, is punishable under Md. Code, Crim. Law §11-305 by up to 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Those convicted of receiving the proceeds of a prostitute face imprisonment for up to ten years and a fine as high as $10,000. Human trafficking, while nominally labeled as a misdemeanor, is punishable under Md. Code, Crim. Law §11-303 by a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
Soliciting, maintaining a house of prostitution, or allowing someone to enter a building for prostitution are all misdemeanor offenses. Anyone convicted of prostitution, assignation, or one of these other misdemeanor crimes may be imprisoned for up to one year and required to pay a fine of up to $500.
However, the unofficial consequences of a criminal conviction often prove to be more harmful in the long run. A conviction or even the charge of a criminal offense is visible online to anyone who conducts a search. Criminal records can interfere with housing, employment, and personal relationships for years to come. A Carroll County prostitution lawyer could help minimize the adverse effects and seek alternative penalties whenever possible.
Consult with a Carroll County Prostitution Attorney Today
People in Carroll County sometimes wonder if they need a criminal lawyer to fight a prostitution charge if the offense is treated as a misdemeanor. It is important to realize that the investment in legal guidance can prove invaluable to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
Offenses connected with prostitution can have damaging consequences for years to come. To learn how a Carroll County prostitution lawyer may be able to help you reach a positive outcome, call now for a free consultation.