A criminal case is the last thing most people anticipate from a casual discussion or an answer to an internet ad. Accusations of soliciting prostitution in Yuma often arise from exactly that, and the legal consequences can be life-altering. When you’re facing these charges, you need an experienced attorney who knows how to build your case. A Yuma solicitation of prostitution lawyer at Lerner and Rowe Law Group is ready to review your case and begin building a defense for you.
To get started on a free case review, call (520) 620-6200 to speak with a Yuma criminal defense attorney today.
Arizona Solicitation Laws
To be charged for solicitation under ARS § 13-3214, you don’t have to finish or even start a sexual act. The following are sufficient to result in an arrest under Arizona solicitation laws:
- Making an offer or agreement for sexual acts, even if nothing comes from it
- Sending text messages or online conversations that law enforcement interprets as indicating intent
- Real-life conversation that comes across as an attempt to set up a meeting
- Any attempt to set up a meeting, whether it actually occurs or not.
Police often run undercover operations in Yuma and are active in high-traffic commercial areas, including the Yuma Palms Regional Center and the Historic Downtown Yuma. A Yuma solicitation of prostitution lawyer can look at how the investigation was conducted and whether your rights were violated or you were the victim of entrapment.
Penalties You Could Be Facing
A first offense is typically charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor solicitation in Arizona, but that doesn’t mean the consequences are light. Depending on your case, you could face:
- Mandatory minimum 15 days in jail
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Fines up to $2,500
- Court costs
- Legal fees
- Required participation in “John school”
- A criminal record
- Risk to professional licenses or employment
- Felony charges for repeat offenses
The earlier you have legal representation, the more options you’re likely to have.
How a Yuma Solicitation of Prostitution Lawyer Builds Your Defense
Solicitation of prostitution charges in Arizona often rest on thin or ambiguous evidence—a text thread, a recorded conversation, or the account of an undercover officer. Your attorney will examine those details and identify where the prosecution’s case may be weak.
To build your defense, your attorney will:
- Review all communications for context that changes the picture
- Examine whether law enforcement followed proper procedure during the arrest
- Determine if an entrapment defense applies in Arizona, meaning you were coerced into committing an act you would not have otherwise committed
- Challenge circumstantial evidence
- Explore options to keep a conviction off your record
Even when there is a criminal investigation, you still have constitutional rights. If any are violated, this can affect the evidence the prosecution can use.
FAQs: Yuma Solicitation of Prostitution Lawyer
For first-time offenders, diversion programs or negotiated outcomes may be available. Your attorney can walk you through what’s realistic given your specific situation.
Contact a Yuma Solicitation of Prostitution Lawyer Today
A solicitation charge doesn’t have to define your future. Our team handles these cases with complete discretion, and a Yuma criminal defense lawyer at Lerner and Rowe Law Group is available 24/7.
Call (520) 620-6200, reach us via LiveChat, or fill out our secure online form to get started on a free case consultation. We offer affordable payment plans.