Erlanger Prostitution Lawyer

Getting charged with prostitution can be more emotionally challenging than facing other criminal charges. For sex workers, prostitution charges can put them out of work, which can lead to financial hardship. It could also lead to involvement by child protective services, impact other employment, or have other negative consequences. For clients—especially those who are married or involved in long-term relationships—the consequences extend beyond the criminal justice system. The charges can break up their relationships, lead to estrangement from their children, result in job loss, and impact their reputation in the community.

If you are charged with prostitution, it is vital to realize that the consequences extend beyond potential criminal punishments. It can be tempting to plead guilty if you think you can avoid jail time or a prison sentence. However, these other consequences can last much longer. An experienced criminal defense attorney at Busald Funk Zevely may be able to help. An Erlanger prostitution lawyer can challenge the charges in court, negotiate a plea bargain, and help you deal with the other consequences.

Prostitution and Related Crimes

According to Kentucky Revised Statutes § 529.020, prostitution is a Class B misdemeanor. It consists of engaging in or agreeing to or offering to engage in sexual conduct in exchange for a fee. The fee can be money, but it can also be things that have monetary value, like goods or other services.

While many prostitutes now solicit online or in clubs, some still look for clients on the streets. The police may charge sex workers or potential clients with loitering in addition to prostitution. While loitering is a nominal offense, the combination of offenses can increase potential jail time as well as increase fines.

In addition to criminal consequences like potential jail time and fines, Kentucky Revised Statutes § 529.090 places an additional punishment on people convicted of prostitution or procuring someone to commit prostitution. It requires them to get tested for HIV and submit to treatment and counseling if infected. Additionally, any person who has tested positive for a sexually transmitted disease and still commits prostitution is guilty of an additional offense, which is a Class A misdemeanor. If the sexually transmitted disease is HIV, the crime is a Class D felony. The person can be convicted of the underlying crime of prostitution as well as the enhanced offense related to the sexually transmitted disease.

Promoting the sex trade is also a crime in Kentucky. Pandering, which is the promotion of prostitution, is often a higher offense than prostitution. For example, running a business with multiple prostitutes is a Class D felony.

Potential for Trafficking Charges

Whether a client seeks a sex worker on the street, through advertising, or in sexually oriented businesses like massage parlors or strip clubs, the practice is dangerous. Many of these sex workers may be compelled by others to engage in sex work, a practice known as human trafficking. While potential customers may not be aware of those circumstances, they could still face punishments if they become an end-user in trafficking. An Erlanger defense attorney will focus on intent and knowledge of human trafficking allegations attached to a prostitution charge.

Hire an Erlanger Attorney to Fight Prostitution Charges on Your Behalf

Getting charged with prostitution can have a devastating impact on your life, even without a conviction. An aggressive Erlanger prostitution lawyer at Busald Funk Zevely can help fight the charges against you. They can also help you navigate the challenges that come along with prostitution charges, including potential job loss, marital challenges, and loss of reputation. Schedule a free consultation to learn more.