Atlanta Prostitution Lawyer

Atlanta Prostitution Attorney

Sex crimes are some of the most complex crimes in the state of Georgia. There is a lot of controversy that exists surrounding the topic of prostitution and the legality of it. The penalties you could face if convicted of prostitution may be severe and life-changing. If you have been charged with prostitution, it is essential to seek out an Atlanta prostitution lawyer as soon as possible.

What Defines Prostitution?

There are many ways prostitution can occur, especially with the introduction of the Internet in recent years, and there are several laws addressing acts of prostitution. It has become increasingly difficult to strictly define prostitution, but the state of Georgia defines it as performing, offering, or consenting to perform sexual acts for money or other valuable items.

Types of Prostitution

While there is a broad definition of prostitution, it can take many forms. Some examples of what is considered prostitution in Georgia include:

• Pandering
• Soliciting
• Pimping
• Hosting a place of prostitution

Penalties for Prostitution in Georgia

Georgia is known as one of the more strict states in regard to prostitution laws, and because there are strict laws, there are also harsh punishments that follow a conviction. Some of these include:

• The amount of the fine depends on the severity of the specific offense as well as whether it was a first-time or repeat offense.
• The length of time a person convicted of prostitution may spend in jail also depends on the details of the offense. Bail may or may not be an option.
• Registration on the sex offender list.
• The conviction being placed on your criminal record.

If you are charged with prostitution, it does not necessarily mean you will be convicted. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can work with you to try to have the charges dropped or reduced. In the event of a conviction, your lawyer can fight to mitigate your sentence.

Who Can Be Charged in a Prostitution Case?

One common concern in prostitution cases is in regard to who can be charged with a crime. In Atlanta, Georgia, both the customer and the worker may be charged with the crime of prostitution. Offering or performing sexual acts and purchasing sexual acts are both illegal and may be charged accordingly.

In cases in which minors are involved or the worker is coerced, or threatened, they may not be charged with criminal activity. Each case is processed and tried according to the specific details and nature of the incident. This is one reason why it is important to have a defense attorney who can become familiar with the details of your case and build you a solid defense.

Human Trafficking vs. Prostitution

While the terms ‘human trafficking’ and ‘prostitution’ are sometimes used interchangeably, they have two distinct meanings. Human trafficking refers to recruiting, transporting, or harboring individuals with the goal of making a profit. This illegal activity can take the form of forced labor or sexual exploitation.

Prostitution refers to the act of performing or consenting to sexual acts in exchange for payment of some kind. While both of these acts are considered illegal in most states within the U.S., they are two different crimes. In some cases, human trafficking may involve prostitution.

Additional Offenses

In addition to the act of prostitution being illegal in Georgia, individuals who support the processes and people behind prostitution can also be held accountable. Some examples of related offenses include:

• Housing prostitutes
• Acting as a pimp or agent for a prostitute
• Transporting a prostitute to and from appointments
• Managing income for a prostitute
• Providing basic needs and protection for a prostitute

While it can be difficult to prove any of the above crimes, they are still considered illegal acts, and you may be charged if you are involved in prostitution in any way.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Punishment for Prostitution in Georgia?

A: It is illegal in Georgia to offer or consent to sexual acts in exchange for payment of any kind. Punishments can include fines and jail time, both of which depend on the severity of the offense and whether it is a first-time or repeat offense. Offenses in Georgia can range from pimping to keeping a place of prostitution to human trafficking, which is one of the more serious offenses.

Q: What Is the Federal Law on Prostitution?

A: Generally, laws regarding prostitution are left to each state to determine for themselves; however, there are federal laws regarding prostitution when it involves minors. The federal government also has laws concerning the trafficking of persons for prostitution. The Mann Act specifically makes it illegal throughout the United States to transport individuals across states with the intention of having them engage in prostitution.

Q: Is Solicitation a Felony or Misdemeanor in Georgia?

A: Soliciting prostitution is charged as a misdemeanor in Georgia; however, there are cases in which solicitation can become a felony, such as when aggravated elements are present. Examples of aggravated elements include minors being involved in prostitution or human trafficking. Misdemeanor charges are not necessarily life-changing but still carry a heavy weight and can have a significant impact on a person’s personal and professional life.

Q: What Is the Difference Between Legal and Decriminalized Prostitution in Georgia?

A: The main difference between legal and decriminalized prostitution in Georgia is that legal prostitution refers to a removal of the punishments without regulation of activities, while decriminalized prostitution refers to a removal of punishments with regulation of activities. The process of decriminalizing prostitution would simply eliminate the laws that prohibit prostitution, while the process of legalizing prostitution requires new laws to be created.

Contact The Law Office of Delisa Williams PC for Effective Representation

If you have been charged with prostitution, it is important to seek legal counsel right away. These cases can be time-sensitive, and it can be helpful to your case if you take steps in preparing a defense early on. Reach out today to learn more about how we can help you and to get your questions answered.