Atlanta Prostitution Lawyer

Sex crimes are serious offenses in Georgia that carry harsh penalties. When it comes to sexual offenses, most people think of rape, child molestation, or pornography. But prostitution is also considered a sex crime under Georgia law.

The offense of prostitution involves the act of offering or consenting to a sexual act for remuneration. It includes actions such as pimping, pandering, or maintaining a place of prostitution.

The punishments for these actions may differ depending on the sexual conduct and the accused’s prior criminal history. Nevertheless, they commonly result in imprisonment, fines, or community service. Individuals may also suffer other personal consequences from the allegation, even if they are not guilty.

Retaining help from an experienced attorney is vital in reducing the impact of a prostitution conviction. At Conoscienti and Ledbetter, we understand how embarrassing prostitution charges may be. Our Atlanta prostitution defense lawyer can build a defense strategy to protect your rights and reputation.

Although an individual may not have committed the offense of prostitution, they may be arrested for sexual offenses related to prostitution. Under prostitution laws, the following acts are related to prostitution:

• Keeping a place of prostitution (GA Code s. 16-6-10): Permitting the use of a building you own as a place for committing prostitution or sex trafficking is an offense. The penalties for committing such an offense are up to 12 months in jail and $1000 in fines. The punishment for a subsequent offense is up to ten years in prison.

• Pimping (GA Code s. 16-6-11): Offering or arranging a prostitute for another person in exchange for money or other services is an offense. The penalties for committing such an offense are up to 12 months in jail and $1000 in fines. If the prostitute is a minor, the penalty is up to thirty years imprisonment.

• Pandering (GA Code s. 16-6-12): Soliciting a person to commit the act of prostitution for yourself or someone else is an offense. Penalties for a pandering conviction are up to a year in jail and fines. If the act involves a minor, the individual may be charged with a felony. Felony offenses carry up to thirty years imprisonment and up to $100,000 in fines.

• Masturbation for hire (GA Code s. 16-6-16): Erotically stimulating the genitals of someone else in exchange for money or its equivalent is a misdemeanor offense. A first-time offender will face a penalty of up to one year in prison and up to $1000 in fines.

• Giving massages for hire in a place used for lewdness (GA Code s.16-6-17): Massaging any person in a building or place used for prostitution or lewdness is illegal. A conviction for this offense is up to one-year imprisonment and fines of up to $1000.

At Conoscienti and Ledbetter, we defend our client’s rights in prostitution-related criminal charges. Our criminal defense attorneys can use their experience and skill set to give you an advantage in court.

We will carefully evaluate your case and investigate the facts and circumstances surrounding it. We will also inform you of all the possible outcomes of the case, including the possible punishments that the judge may impose if convicted.

Our lawyers can protect your rights and seriously represent you at the various stages of your case. No matter the particular details of your charges, seeking legal counsel from a professional who can handle these cases is important. If you were accused of a prostitution offense, contact our law office today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Get My Prostitution Charge Expunged?

According to Georgia’s sex offender laws, sex offender registrations last a lifetime. But, there are specific circumstances where a prostitution offense may be expunged. Individuals who meet specific requirements can petition the court to remove their name from the registry.

Some evidence that you can present to the court to expunge your records include:

• Proof that you are of no threat to the community

• Proof that you are of good moral character

• Evidence that you have completed probation or parole

Individuals with prior sexual offenses will have to wait ten years before making a petition.