Conroe Solicitation Lawyer

While most people do not think of hiring a prostitute as a criminal offense, in Texas, the act of solicitation can carry significant penalties. Convictions for this type of charge can lead to lengthy jail sentences and hefty fines. A conviction will also remain on your permanent criminal record and may impact where you can live or work.

When you hire a Conroe solicitation lawyer to help defend against these charges, you increase your chances of achieving the best possible outcome. Attorney Raphael Ortega has years of experience handling solicitation and other sex crimes and could advocate on your behalf.

Solicitation Laws in Texas

In Texas, criminal laws surrounding solicitation are established in Penal Code Sec. 43.02 (b). Someone is guilty of solicitation if they knowingly offer or agree to pay a fee to another person for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct with that person or someone else. The crime of solicitation is charged as a Class B misdemeanor. A second or third conviction for this offense may rise to a Class A misdemeanor, which carries steeper penalties. When someone has been convicted of solicitation three or more times, prosecutors may issue subsequent charges as felonies. If anyone is accused of soliciting a minor, regardless of whether they have previous convictions, they will automatically face second-degree felony charges.

A conviction for solicitation or prostitution can impact the defendant’s life for years to come. Employers are reluctant to hire people with criminal convictions, and a criminal record could also impact housing opportunities. A convicted individual may be obligated to register as a sex offender. The penalty for a conviction for solicitation depends on the nature of the crime.

• First misdemeanor conviction: Subject to a maximum of 180 days in jail and up to $2,000 in fines.
• Second misdemeanor conviction: Maximum of 12 months in jail and up to $4,000 in fines.
• Felony conviction: Mandatory minimum sentence of six months in prison and a maximum sentence of two years. Fines can go up to $10,000.

It is crucial to secure good legal representation if facing accusations of solicitation. Speak to a Conroe lawyer to learn more about the penalties that may apply to a specific solicitation case.

Defenses to Solicitation Charges

While there are a variety of ways to defend against solicitation charges, some defenses are more common than others. Knowledge and intent are key elements to a solicitation charge, meaning that if the accused person did not know or intend to solicit sex for money or otherwise engage in an act of prostitution, they cannot be convicted. The state has a high burden of proof in criminal cases, and a strong defense tactic is to raise doubt about whether the prosecution’s evidence proves all elements involved with this type of charge. Talk to a Conroe attorney about developing a defense strategy against solicitation charges.

Work With a Conroe Solicitation Attorney

If you were accused of solicitation or any form of sex crime, you must consider your next steps carefully. One crucial step you can take is to find a Conroe solicitation defense lawyer to represent you.

Raphael Ortega is a trusted defense lawyer who could advise you of your rights and work hard to fight the charges issued against you. Contact our office now to schedule your legal consultation.