El Dorado Hills Prostitution Attorney

Skilled Defense Against Prostitution Charges

Being accused of prostitution or solicitation in El Dorado Hills is a serious legal matter that can jeopardize your reputation, freedom, and future. At Walsh Law, we provide experienced, discreet, and aggressive defense for individuals charged under California’s prostitution laws. As a former prosecutor, attorney Chris Walsh understands how these cases are investigated and prosecuted-and how to protect your rights at every stage.

Why Choose Walsh Law for Your Defense?

• Over 19 years of criminal law experience, including high-profile prosecution and defense work.
• In-depth knowledge of California Penal Code § 647(b) and related offenses.
• Personalized legal strategies tailored to the facts of your case.
• Free, confidential consultations to discuss your options.

Contact Walsh Law today at (916) 610-3558 for expert prostitution defense. Protect your rights—schedule a free consultation!

California Prostitution Laws: What You Need to Know

Under California Penal Code § 647(b), it is illegal to:

• Engage in an act of prostitution.
• Solicit or agree to engage in prostitution.
• Offer or request sexual acts in exchange for money, property, or anything of value.

Both the individual offering and the individual seeking sexual services can be charged. Importantly, the law applies even if no money changes hands or if the act does not occur-an agreement or offer alone may be sufficient for an arrest.

Key Elements Prosecutors Must Prove:

• A request or offer for a sexual act.
• An agreement to engage in the act in exchange for compensation.
• Intent to follow through with the act.

Activities That Qualify as Prostitution

California law defines prostitution broadly. It is not limited to sexual intercourse for money. The law covers:

• Any lewd act performed for sexual gratification in exchange for something of value.
• Offers or agreements for sexual acts, even if the act is never completed.
• Compensation does not have to be money; it can include gifts, services, or other items of value.

Even discussing or negotiating an exchange can lead to charges if law enforcement believes there was intent.

Related Offenses

Prostitution charges are often accompanied by related offenses, which can increase penalties and complexity:

• Pimping (Penal Code § 266(h)): Profiting from another person’s prostitution.
• Pandering (Penal Code § 266(i)): Persuading or forcing someone into prostitution.
• Supervising or Aiding (Penal Code § 653.23): Directing or assisting someone in prostitution.
• Indecent Exposure (Penal Code § 314): Lewd exposure in public.
• Human Trafficking (Penal Code § 236.1): Forcing or coercing someone into commercial sex acts.

If your case involves allegations of these related offenses, you could face felony charges and much harsher penalties.

Penalties for Prostitution and Solicitation

A first-time prostitution or solicitation conviction in California is a misdemeanor, punishable by:

• Up to six months in county jail.
• Fines up to $1,000.
• Up to three years of probation.

Repeat Offenses:

• Second offense: Mandatory minimum 45 days in jail.
• Third or subsequent offenses: Mandatory minimum 90 days in jail.
• Involving a minor: Felony charges, up to one year in jail, and fines up to $10,000.

While most prostitution convictions do not require sex offender registration, cases involving minors or aggravating circumstances can trigger this severe consequence, impacting your employment, housing, and more.

Recent Changes and Protections

California has enacted new laws to protect the rights of those accused of prostitution:

• SB 233: Prevents police from using condoms as evidence of prostitution and allows sex workers to report crimes without fear of arrest for related offenses.
• SB 357: Repealed anti-loitering laws, reducing police discretion to arrest individuals for “loitering with intent” to commit prostitution. However, prostitution itself remains illegal and actively prosecuted.

Defense Strategies for Prostitution Charges

Walsh Law will thoroughly investigate your case and develop the strongest possible defense. Common defense strategies include:

• Lack of intent: Demonstrating no agreement or intent to exchange compensation for sexual acts.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit an act you would not have otherwise done.
• Coercion or duress: Showing you were forced or threatened into the situation.
• Insufficient evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove all legal elements beyond a reasonable doubt.

Every case is unique. Attorney Chris Walsh will review text messages, police reports, and all available evidence to fight for your acquittal or a reduction of charges.

Protect Your Future-Contact Walsh Law Today

A prostitution charge carries a lasting stigma and the potential for jail, fines, and long-term consequences. Don’t face these accusations alone or accept a plea deal without understanding your rights. As a former prosecutor, Chris Walsh knows how to challenge the evidence and negotiate the best possible outcome.

Contact Walsh Law today at (916) 610-3558 for a free, confidential consultation and take the first step toward clearing your name and protecting your future.