Los Angeles Prostitution Attorney

Fighting Prostitution Charges in California

Arrests for prostitution, solicitation, pandering, or loitering in Los Angeles occur regularly and result from the increasing number of illegal sexual services for hire throughout the city. The internet, cell phones, and newspaper ads are used to catch suspects. As a result, innocent citizens with no criminal history can be arrested and accused of prostitution or other offenses simply by being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Prostitution charges carry not only the risk of legal penalties but also a significant social stigma that can impact personal and professional relationships. The complexity of these charges necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the law and a strategic approach to defense. This highlights the importance of having robust legal representation to navigate the intricate aspects of legal proceedings.

In Los Angeles, both the prostitute and the "John" are aggressively prosecuted. Law enforcement efforts are often aimed at reducing the visibility of both parties involved in these transactions. With heightened surveillance and dedicated task forces, the deterrent effect is pursued through a stringent legal framework. Therefore, individuals accused of such activities need an adept defense strategy tailored to challenge the evidence presented against them.

If you have been charged with solicitation for prostitution, prostitution, loitering with intent to commit prostitution, pandering, pimping, or lewd conduct in public, you need the assistance of a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney. We understand how California's prostitution laws work and will use that knowledge to defend you. Our approach involves meticulously evaluating your arrest's circumstances, ensuring that your rights are upheld throughout the legal process.

Have you been arrested for prostitution or related charges? Call Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners today at (213) 481-6811 or contact us online to discuss your case with a skilled Los Angeles prostitution attorney.

What Is the Prostitution Law in California?

In the most general sense, prostitution is offering or agreeing to have sex or having sex for money. Both the person who offered the sex and the person who accepted the sex can be convicted. It doesn't matter if you answered an ad for a "personal escort" or "masseuse"; if sexual activity was part of the service and money changed hands, it was illegal. Per California Penal Code Section 647(b), it is illegal to solicit, agree to engage in or engage in any act of prostitution. The crime is charged as a misdemeanor.

Various forms of prostitution can be filed:

• Solicitation of Prostitution - To solicit is to urge, induce, or entice another person to engage in an act of prostitution with specific intent to engage in prostitution, coupled with an act in furtherance of the prostitution. An act in furtherance of prostitution means something more than accepting the solicitation. Examples of soliciting prostitution include:
  • Driving to the hotel or motel where the prostitution will take place
  • Walking to an ATM and withdrawing money to pay for prostitution
  • Allowing a prostitute to enter the car for sexual activity
  • Turning over the agreed-upon money for prostitution
• Agreeing to Engage in Prostitution - If a person agrees to engage in an act of prostitution with another person, and he or she did so with the specific intent to engage in prostitution, and in addition to the agreement does an act in furtherance of prostitution. Examples include driving to the hotel or motel where the prostitution will take place, walking over to the ATM and withdrawing money to pay for the prostitution, allowing the prostitute to enter the car to be driven to the location of the sexual activity, and turning over the agreed-upon money.
• Engaging in an Act of Prostitution - Willfully engaging in sexual intercourse or any lewd act in exchange for money is considered to be an act of prostitution. In California law, a lewd act is defined as touching the genitals, female breasts, or buttocks by either the prostitute or the customer with some part of the other person's body for sexual arousal or gratification of either person.
• Loitering for Prostitution - In California, individuals who are arrested for prostitution are sometimes charged with loitering for prostitution. According to California Penal Code 653.22, it is a crime if the defendant delayed or lingered in a public place, and when the defendant did so, he or she did not have a lawful purpose for being there, and he or she intended to commit prostitution. Examples of loitering for prostitution include:
  • Repeatedly stopping, beckoning, or engaging in conversations with passersby in a way that indicated a solicitation of prostitution;
  • Attempting to stop vehicles by waving, hailing, gesturing, or engaging drivers or passengers in conversation in a way that indicated a solicitation of prostitution;
  • Circling and driving a vehicle in an area known for prostitution.
• Lewd Conduct in Public - In California, individuals who are arrested for prostitution are sometimes charged with a concurrent offense of a lewd act in public. According to California Penal Code Section 647(a), a defendant who willfully engages in sexual intercourse or lewd conduct in public is guilty of this offense.

Prosecutors also consider additional evidence in prostitution cases such as possession of condoms by the prostitute or the "John;" large amounts of cash by the customer; possession of a client book; sexy attire by the person soliciting; online ad offering companionship, a "good time" or "happy ending;" the mention of "roses" as in 300 roses for services offered. All of this evidence may suggest that some prostitution was going to occur, but in and of itself, prostitution cannot be charged. Understanding California law's specific language and intent is crucial for forming a solid legal defense and highlighting the nuances that may lead to a favorable outcome.

Prostitution Penalties Explained by a Los Angeles Attorney

Below are the potential penalties for prostitution-related offenses:

In addition to these penalties, individuals convicted of prostitution-related offenses may face long-term repercussions, including challenges in obtaining employment, difficulties in housing applications, and potential impacts on child custody arrangements. Social stigma associated with such convictions can also affect personal relationships and community standing. These added layers of penalty underscore the importance of having a competent legal team to mitigate these outcomes potentially.

Law Enforcement's Tactics in Prostitution Cases

Law enforcement agencies have been making numerous prostitution arrests using various undercover methods, including:

• Sting Operations - Wearing provocative clothing and posing as prostitutes, police officers use this roadside method to lure would-be customers off the street and into the bedroom, only to be arrested for prostitution. This is one of the most common methods police use to catch "Johns" in the act.
• Prostitution Ring Breakups - Using the reverse tactic from a sting operation, police officers pose as customers seeking to find sex for hire. Once inside the supposed massage parlors or with a personal escort, the police will make arrests upon determining the falsehood of the organization.
• Sex Online - Websites offer services for companionship as a coverup for prostitution. Acting as potential customers for these internet-based sites, law enforcement agencies can distinguish the legal from the illegal and make arrests accordingly. Law enforcement targets online personal profile ads like those seen on BackPage.com and CityVibe.com.

In response to these tactics, legal defenses often question the methods of arresting and charging the accused. Entrapment is a key defense strategy, where the accused claims that law enforcement induced them to commit a crime they otherwise would not have engaged in. This defense requires demonstrating that the idea and intention to commit the crime originated from the officers and not from the person accused.

Crafting a Strong Defense for Prostitution Charges

The prosecution will attempt to prove there was an agreement to engage in an act of prostitution. This is usually achieved using a recording device during conversations between an undercover cop and the accused.

If a record of the conversation cannot be produced, the agreement may be established by the text messages or emails sent back and forth between the prostitute and the customer or undercover police. If the accused has no money on their person, the prosecution may have a difficult time proving the specific intent to engage in an act of prostitution.

The prosecutor must prove at least one of the following elements existed to obtain a prostitution conviction successfully:

• Solicit (strongly urge or entice) for an act of prostitution
• Agree to engage in an act of prostitution
• Engage in an act of prostitution

There are several defenses available for the crimes of prostitution, solicitation, pandering, and loitering. Each situation is different, and the defenses to these crimes will ultimately depend on the type of evidence available. Our legal team rigorously investigates each element to identify discrepancies or weaknesses in the prosecution's case, potentially leading to reduced charges or even dismissal.

Tackling the Legal Challenges in Prostitution Cases 

Prostitution laws in Los Angeles are specifically designed to address the local challenges associated with this crime. The city, being an entertainment hub and a significant metropolis, sees a higher incidence of prostitution-related activities compared to other regions in California. This leads to more stringent enforcement of laws and increased attention from media and public agencies, which can further complicate the legal landscape for someone accused of such charges.

Understanding the localized implementations of the California Penal Code is crucial when crafting a defense strategy. Law enforcement in Los Angeles utilizes advanced surveillance technologies to aid in prostitution-related arrests, which also means that legal defenses must be equipped with updated knowledge of such technologies. A committed legal team will incorporate technological insights into their defense strategies, comprehensively challenging the prosecution's evidence.

Supporting Resources for Accused Individuals in Los Angeles

In addition to legal representation, individuals facing prostitution charges in Los Angeles have access to several resources that can aid in their defense and rehabilitation. Organizations such as the Los Angeles County Public Defender's Office provide invaluable support in understanding legal rights and navigating the complexities of legal proceedings. These resources are integral in helping accused individuals make informed decisions at every stage of their defense.

Furthermore, there are non-profit organizations focused on providing counseling and education to those affected by prostitution charges. These organizations aim to reduce recidivism by offering empowerment, rehabilitation, and legal awareness programs. Utilizing these resources can significantly bolster a defense strategy by demonstrating proactive steps toward personal betterment.

The Importance of Hiring a Prostitution Defense Attorney in Los Angeles

Prostitution charges can have serious consequences, including fines, jail time, and damage to your reputation. It is essential to have a skilled and experienced prostitution defense attorney on your side to protect your rights and help you navigate the legal system.

At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, our Los Angeles prostitution defense attorneys have a proven track record of success in defending clients against prostitution charges. We understand the tactics law enforcement and prosecutors use, and we will work tirelessly to build a strong defense for your situation.

By hiring our firm, you can expect:

• Adept legal advice and representation
• A thorough investigation of the facts and evidence in your situation
• An aggressive defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances
• Effective negotiation with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties
• Protection of your rights and interests throughout the legal process

Our firm is committed to staying informed about the latest changes in prostitution laws and how these affect the legal landscape in Los Angeles. This dedication ensures we can provide the most relevant and effective defense strategies. Our attorneys understand that every client's situation is unique and requires personalized attention to detail, so we foster open communication and provide regular updates throughout your legal proceedings.

Don't risk your future by fighting prostitution charges alone. Contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced prostitution defense attorneys. We are here to help you protect your future and your freedom.

Contact Our Los Angeles Prostitution Lawyer Today 

Your first line of defense is to contact a skilled sex crime lawyer in Los Angeles. We will evaluate the evidence and witnesses, question the appropriate persons, and work with you on building your defense. The legal team at Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners will act immediately to preserve any evidence favorable to the defense.

Don’t risk your future by fighting prostitution charges alone. Call now to schedule a free consultation and protect your rights with the help of our experienced legal team!

Helpful Resources from a Los Angeles Prostitution Lawyer

• Official website of Los Angeles County Government
• Official website of the Los Angeles Police Department

Common Questions About Prostitution Charges in Los Angeles

How Do Prostitution Laws in Los Angeles Differ from Other Areas?

Prostitution laws in Los Angeles are enforced with state and local ordinances. While California Penal Code Section 647(b) applies statewide, local ordinances can enforce stricter measures and penalties. Due to its size and diverse population, Los Angeles often requires more resources, such as dedicated vice units and task forces, which can result in higher monitoring and arrests. Understanding state and local law nuances can be crucial for mounting a successful defense.

Can Prostitution Charges Be Expunged from My Record?

In California, some prostitution-related convictions may be eligible for expungement, meaning the conviction is effectively dismissed and removed from your public criminal record. Eligibility often depends on the specifics of the charge, completed probation, and the absence of subsequent offenses. However, an expunged conviction does not erase it from all records and may still be visible in certain background checks. Seeking legal advice on the expungement process can help clarify whether this is an option for those looking to move forward after a conviction.

Do I need a lawyer if I am arrested on suspicion of participating in activities related to this crime?