Phoenix Prostitution Defense Lawyer

Challenging Prostitution Charges in the Phoenix Area

Prostitution is defined as the exchange of money or other valuables for sexual activity. It is illegal in Arizona and is typically classified as a misdemeanor offense, depending on whether the defendant has prior convictions for prostitution and the specific nature of the offense. If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges for this crime, talk to a Phoenix criminal defense lawyer at Suzuki Law Offices. You have the right to legal counsel; choosing to take immediate advantage of this right may end up making the difference between a conviction and acquittal or dismissal.

Understanding Prostitution Charges

There are various specific criminal acts covered under Arizona Code, Chapter 32 Prostitution, including:

Prostitution (including solicitation)
Child prostitution
Enticement of persons for the purpose of prostitution
Procurement by false pretenses of a person for the purpose of prostitution
Procuring or placing persons in a house of prostitution
Receiving earnings of a prostitute
Causing a spouse to become a prostitute
Detention of a person in a house of prostitution for debt
Keeping or residing in a house of prostitution
Pandering
Transporting a person or persons for the purpose of prostitution

Simple prostitution, which involves the offer, agreement or exchange of money or other valuable for sexual conduct, may be classified as a class 1 misdemeanor, which is punishable by a maximum of 6 months in jail. The following mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment may apply:

First prostitution offense: minimum 15 consecutive days in jail, without eligibility for probation or suspension until this entire sentence is served.
Second prostitution offense: minimum 30 consecutive days in jail, without eligibility for probation or suspension.
Third prostitution offense: minimum 60 consecutive days in jail, without eligibility for probation or suspension. The defendant will also be required to complete a court-ordered education/treatment program.

A fourth prostitution offense may be charged as a felony, with a potential sentence of .5 to 2.5 years in prison.

Make sure you act quickly and protect your future and freedom. Contact a Phoenix prostitution defense attorney at our law offices for a confidential review of your charges.