Houston Prostitution Defense Attorneys

Is Prostitution a Felony in Texas?

If you have been charged with prostitution or a related offense in Houston, Texas, it is crucial to understand the serious legal consequences that can result from these charges. A conviction for these types of crimes can have a lasting impact on your personal and professional life, including potential jail time, fines, probation, and damage to your reputation.

At Bennett & Bennett, our knowledgeable attorneys have extensive experience defending clients against prostitution and related offenses in Houston and throughout Texas. Our skilled team of criminal defense lawyers understands the complexities of these cases, and we will vigorously fight for your rights throughout every stage of the legal process.

Prostitution-Related Offenses in Houston

In Texas, engaging in sexual conduct for money or offering or receiving payment for sexual services is considered prostitution. Even if there is no sexual contact, the solicitation of prostitution is itself treated the same as prostitution. The promotion of prostitution involves facilitating or encouraging prostitution activities, such as by managing brothels or escort services, transporting individuals for sex work purposes, or advertising sexual services through print media or online platforms.

Prostitution-related activities are covered under sections 43.02–43.05 of the Texas Penal Code. The penalties for a conviction will vary depending on several factors, such as prior convictions and involvement with minors. A first-time conviction for a prostitute is generally a Class B misdemeanor, which may be punishable by a sentence of up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine not exceeding $2,000. The "john" soliciting prostitution is charged with a state jail felony for a first offense, and a conviction may result in a felony conviction, a sentence of between six months and two years in jail, and a maximum fine of $10,000. Subsequent offenses carry more severe penalties, and convictions can result in higher fines, longer sentences, and other consequences.

Building Strong Defense Strategies

If you are facing charges related to prostitution in Houston, it is important to explore all possible defenses to protect your rights. Possible defense strategies may include:

1. Lack of proof: The prosecution must establish beyond a reasonable doubt that you engaged in the alleged illegal activity. The skilled defense attorneys at Bennett & Bennett will scrutinize the evidence presented against you and challenge its validity.
2. Mistaken identity: In some instances, false accusations may occur because you were mistaken for someone else. At Bennett & Bennett, our lawyers will thoroughly examine witness testimonies or identification procedures to determine whether there are any inconsistencies or discrepancies present regarding your involvement.
3. Miscommunication: Often prosecution arrests result from police stings, there is no sexual contact, and there can be a mismatch between what the defendant meant and what the police misunderstood. Because the agreement is the crime, a reasonable doubt about whether the defendant agreed to exchange money for sex is a reasonable doubt about the crime.
4. Entrapment: If it can be shown that law enforcement officials used tactics to induce you into committing unlawful acts you would not have otherwise engaged in, we may be able to demonstrate that this was entrapment, further weakening the case against you.
5. Violations of your fundamental rights: The Fourth Amendment protects citizens from unlawful search and seizure practices. If police obtained evidence through an improper search warrant or without probable cause, our skilled defense attorneys can file a motion requesting suppression of this evidence. This could significantly undermine the prosecution's case against you.

The Importance of Skilled Legal Representation

In prostitution-related cases, having skilled legal representation is vital for protecting your rights and minimizing the potential consequences you may face. A knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer who is well-versed in these types of cases will have a better understanding of how prosecutors will build their arguments and how to build an effective defense strategy.

At Bennett & Bennett, our experienced criminal defense attorneys have successfully defended numerous clients in cases involving prostitution-related charges in Houston and throughout Texas. We meticulously analyze each client's unique circumstances to develop defenses aimed at achieving the best possible outcome. Our priority is to protect our clients' futures while advocating vigorously on their behalf throughout every stage of the legal process.

Contact Our Knowledgeable Houston Prostitution Defense Attorneys

If you are facing charges of engaging in or soliciting prostitution in Houston, contact us today at 713-224-1747 to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. We are committed to providing you with the defense you deserve.