An accusation of solicitation can do long-lasting damage to your future. A solicitation charge brings with it a stigma that could harm your personal and professional reputation. If convicted, you could face a steep fine and a possible jail sentence, resulting in financial difficulties and the loss of your freedom.
It is imperative to reach out to a skilled criminal defense attorney for help as soon as possible. A DeKalb County solicitation lawyer could offer you the advice you need, along with the discretion that you deserve.
It is against the law in Georgia to ask or force someone to do something illegal. Although solicitation charges can involve many different types of criminal activities, the crime of solicitation in Georgia generally involves people seeking to hire the services of a prostitute.
Georgia Code § 16-6-12 lists solicitation and pandering as a sex offense. Even if the underlying crime does not occur, a prosecutor can bring charges of solicitation. For example, a person could face solicitation charges for discussing the cost and requesting sexual services, even if no services occurred or no payment was exchanged.
A DeKalb County solicitation and pandering lawyer understands the laws and the potential consequences of a solicitation charge and could work with a defendant to build a strong defense.
Solicitation of a prostitute is a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature. If convicted, a defendant could face up to a $5,000 fine as well as a year in jail. If the solicitation occurred near a school, playground, church, or other place frequented by minors, the fine could potentially increase. In addition, the defendant could face felony charges if the prosecution can prove that they knew that the prostitute was a minor or a trafficking victim. A defendant who is convicted of a felony could face a higher fine and longer prison term. Furthermore, if the solicitation occurred in a car, a conviction could also result in the forfeiture of that car. A legal professional could explain the possible penalties and help someone mitigate the negative consequences.
Sometimes police officers make mistakes and defendants could face wrongful charges. In order to obtain a conviction, the prosecution needs to prove that the defendant had the intent to commit the crime. A skilled local attorney could help the defendant show that they had no intention to commit a crime. They could meet with witnesses and look at other evidence to demonstrate that the defendant was unaware that they were soliciting the services of a prostitute.
The prosecution also needs to present definitive evidence which proves that the defendant requested someone else to commit a crime. Police often set up sting operations with officers posing as prostitutes to catch potential solicitors. A local solicitation attorney could look into the legality of the sting operation to determine whether it complied with local and state laws, or violated any of the civil rights of the defendant.
A solicitation conviction can result in jail time and hefty fines. In addition to the criminal penalties, your reputation could also suffer, which is why it is essential to work with an attorney as soon as possible. A DeKalb County solicitation lawyer has the experience and the dedication necessary to fight the charges and help protect your rights and freedom. Reach out to one today to arrange an initial consultation.
518 Georgia Avenue
Phone: (423) 888-3030 
