Bryan/College Station Prostitution Defense Lawyer

Defending Clients Facing Prostitution Charges in Texas

At The Andreski Law Firm, our team of experienced legal professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch legal representation to individuals facing prostitution charges in Bryan and College Station. If you or someone you know is dealing with a prostitution-related legal issue, you need a skilled prostitution defense lawyer. Our firm is committed to protecting your rights and providing a strong defense tailored to your unique situation.

Call The Andreski Law Firm today at (979) 356-3766 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our prostitution defense attorney in Bryan and College Station!

What is Prostitution?

Prostitution is the exchange of sexual services for money or other forms of compensation. In Texas, this act is considered a criminal offense under certain circumstances. It's essential to understand the specific elements that constitute prostitution to comprehend the charges you may be facing. Prostitution can encompass various activities related to the sex trade, including but not limited to:

• Engaging in sexual acts for money is the most common form of prostitution, where an individual offers sexual services in exchange for payment.
• Solicitation of prostitution: This occurs when a person offers to engage in sexual acts for money or initiates contact with another individual intending to commit prostitution.
• Promotion of prostitution: This charge applies to those who facilitate or profit from prostitution, such as pimps or madams.
• Compelling prostitution: This offense involves forcing, coercing, or inducing another person into prostitution against their will.

Penalties for Prostitution in Texas

The penalties for these crimes have increased significantly as Texas lawmakers seek to crack down on human trafficking by targeting the "demand" side of the industry.

Beyond jail time, a conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, the loss of professional licenses, and—in cases involving minors—the requirement to register as a sex offender.

Defenses Against Prostitution Charges

When facing prostitution charges, it's crucial to have a skilled Bryan/College Station prostitution defense lawyer who can craft a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. Some potential defenses against prostitution charges may include:

• Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that you did not have the intent to engage in prostitution can be a valid defense. This may involve proving that any actions were misconstrued or taken out of context.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement used tactics to induce or pressure you into committing a prostitution offense that you would not have otherwise committed, an entrapment defense may be viable.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals may be falsely accused of prostitution due to mistaken identity. Providing evidence that you were not the person involved in the alleged offense can be a strong defense.
• Violation of Constitutional Rights: If your rights were violated during the arrest or investigation process, it may be possible to have evidence excluded from the case, potentially leading to a dismissal of charges.
• Lack of Sufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution's evidence and demonstrating that it is insufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt is a fundamental defense strategy.

FAQs About Prostitution Charges

I was arrested in a sting, but no money changed hands. Can I still be charged?

Yes. In Texas, the "offer" or "agreement" is sufficient for an arrest. You do not need to have paid money or engaged in any physical contact to be charged with a State Jail Felony for solicitation.

Will I have to register as a sex offender?

For standard prostitution or solicitation charges involving adults, sex offender registration is generally not required. However, if the case involves a minor (even if you were unaware of their age), registration may become a mandatory part of your sentence.

Can a prostitution charge be expunged?

If your case is dismissed or you are found "not guilty" at trial, you may be eligible for an expunction to clear your record. If you receive deferred adjudication, you may be eligible for an Order of Nondisclosure, which seals the records from public view.

Why did I get charged with a felony for my first arrest?

As of 2021, the Texas legislature upgraded Solicitation of Prostitution to a State Jail Felony. This means that even if you have a perfectly clean record, "buying" sex is now treated with the same severity as many drug possession or theft felonies.