It is a crime to exchange sexual activity for money or any other compensation. Prostitution is a serious offense that can result in very harsh penalties. If you are facing prostitution-related charges in the state of Minnesota, you need an experienced attorney on your side.

Understanding Prostitution Charges

In the state of Minnesota, prostitution is divided into five different categories. In any case involving prostitution, charges can be leveled against the prostitute, the patron and the pimp. The five most common charges of prostitution are:

  • Solicitation of prostitution – offering to pay someone for sexual activity;
  • Inducement of prostitution – persuading someone to engage in prostitution;
  • Promotion of prostitution – promoting or profiting from prostitution (more commonly referred to as pimping);
  • Prostitution in a park or school zone – committing any prostitution-related offense near a school or park; and
  • Loitering with the intent to participate in prostitution – hanging around a public area with the intent to participate in prostitution, whether as the prostitute or the patron.

Prostitution can be charged as a misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or a felony. The level of charges will typically depend on:

  • Any prior convictions;
  • The age of the prostitute; and
  • The location of the act.

In many cases involving prostitution, both the prostitute and the patron are charged with a misdemeanor. The penalty for a misdemeanor prostitution conviction can range up to 90 days in prison, and a fine of $1,000.

If there is a prior history of prostitution, you can be charged with a gross misdemeanor, which can result in up to a year in jail. If the prostitute is under the age of 18, then you can face felony charges, even if you weren’t aware of the individual’s age at the time of the crime. A felony prostitution charge can result in a prison sentence up to 20 years, and a fine of up to $40,000.

You don’t have to engage in sexual conduct, or even be aware that a person is a prostitute, in order to face charges. Even the agreement to exchange sexual activity for money is considered a crime.

Prostitution Defense Lawyer

It’s important to seek help from a qualified defense lawyer as soon as you are aware of any potential prostitution charges against you. No matter which side of the act you are on, a conviction can result in harsh punishment, and long-term stigma in society. Your defense lawyer will help get your charges reduced or even dropped.

When you are charged with prostitution, the prosecution often acts aggressively in search of a conviction. An experienced defense attorney can fight back, and make sure you don’t face the maximum penalties. With the right lawyer on your side, you can avoid a conviction, and get back to a normal life. If you try to battle your prostitution charges alone, you may end up facing prison time, fines, and lifelong consequences that will have a negative impact on all of your relationships.

Always A Free Consultation

If you are up against any type of prostitution charges, you need the best attorneys to assist you. At the Brown Law Offices, P.A., we have the knowledge and experience to help you get the best result possible – no matter what your circumstances are. Our attorneys will fight for you, and never cast judgment regardless of your guilt or innocence. Don’t let a prostitution conviction affect your ability to live the life you want. Call us today at 763-783-5146, or complete our online form for a free consultation.