Law enforcement in Butler County is known for aggressively pursuing arrests and convictions for prostitution. Unfortunately, this approach can lead the police to charge innocent people with a crime because of a misunderstanding or being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
When you have been arrested under suspicion of this offense, now is the time to speak with a Butler County prostitution lawyer. Even when a conviction seems likely, a dedicated defense attorney could help you beat these charges at trial. All of our lawyers are former prosecutors and well-equipped to defend criminal cases. Call Benjamin Levine Law to learn more.
In Pennsylvania, prostitution is a criminal offense that involves engaging in or offering sexual activity in exchange for something of value. While these transactions often involve money, anything of value—including services, goods, or illegal drugs—can qualify. Additionally, loitering in a public place with the intent to engage in prostitution can also lead to criminal charges.
The classification of a prostitution charge depends on the number of prior offenses:
Additionally, prostitution-related charges can escalate to a felony in cases involving human trafficking, compelling prostitution, or involvement with minors.
Even after serving jail time or paying fines, a criminal record for prostitution can have lasting consequences, including:
Butler County prosecute prostitution aggressively, and convictions can have lifelong effects. However, there are defenses available—including lack of intent, entrapment, or constitutional violations during the arrest. A skilled Butler County prostitution defense attorney can analyze the evidence, protect your rights, and fight to have the charges reduced or dismissed.
If you’ve been arrested for prostitution, don’t face the legal system alone. Contact Benjamin Levine Law today for a confidential consultation and aggressive defense.
Being charged with prostitution might feel hopeless, but there is no guarantee of a conviction. With a strong defense strategy and the right prostitution lawyer in Butler County, it can be possible to walk away from this process without a mark on your record. Some of the best ways to approach these cases include the following:
The most straightforward defense strategy can also be the most effective. If the state’s evidence is weak, highlighting the lack of proof might be enough to avoid a conviction. The benefit of this approach is that it does not require evidence of an alternate theory. If the prosecution cannot meet its burden of proof, this defense will be successful.
Many prostitution arrests occur as part of a coordinated sting operation. The police go undercover as potential patrons or prostitutes, only to arrest those who offer sex or money in exchange for the other. However, the police may go too far in their efforts to secure a conviction. The entrapment defense can be used when law enforcement forces or coerces someone to commit a crime.
The offense of prostitution only occurs when sex is part of a commercial transaction. That means a viable defense could involve showing that the encounter was not related to an offer or exchange of a thing of value.
Consequences come with any criminal conviction, but prostitution charges can have a long-lasting impact. It can affect your life years after any jail time has been served, but only if you are found guilty.
Viable defense options are available, and the right legal team could help you beat these charges. Instead of pleading guilty, consider discussing your options with a Butler County prostitution lawyer.