Mahoning County Prostitution & Solicitation Lawyer
Trusted Legal Counsel for Clients in Mahoning County & Surrounding Areas
Prostitution is illegal in Ohio. If you are accused of patronizing or soliciting sexual services, you may face strict penalties, including jail time, probation, and fines. Furthermore, as someone charged with engaging in prostitution, your reputation can be seriously damaged. This can lead to ruined marriages and careers.
The stigma around solicitation makes it challenging to fight charges. You will need an attorney with an in-depth understanding of Ohio law and the professional skills required to help you achieve the best possible result.
Fighting for Your Rights & Best Interests in Mahoning County Prostitution Cases
At Law Office of Damian A. Billak, we understand that those facing such charges are often average and decent individuals who find themselves on the wrong side of the law. Regardless of how you landed in this predicament, you have constitutional rights that deserve to be protected.
With experience in cases involving both prostitution and soliciting a prostitute, Attorney Billak brings exceptional knowledge and skill to your defense. When your reputation and future are on the line, relying on a public defender is inadvisable; they likely cannot give your case the attention it deserves. Our firm can mount an aggressive defense based on your case's unique facts and circumstances.
Request a free initial consultation with a Mahoning County prostitution and solicitation attorney at Law Office of Damian A. Billak by phone at (330) 862-8582 or by completing our online contact form.
Prostitution Laws in Ohio
Who Can Be Charged with Prostitution-Related Crimes in Youngstown, OH?
Both individuals offering sexual services and those seeking to purchase such services can be charged with prostitution-related crimes, such as:
- Prostitutes: Individuals who offer or engage in sexual activity in exchange for money or other forms of compensation can be charged with prostitution.
- Clients (Johns): Those who solicit or pay for sexual services can be charged with solicitation, which is a crime related to prostitution.
- Pimps or facilitators: Individuals who manage, control, or profit from the prostitution activities of others can be charged with promoting prostitution or related offenses.
- Business owners: Owners or operators of establishments that facilitate or allow prostitution activities can also face charges.
Prostitution charges can stem from sexual services occurring in many settings, including apartments, homes, motels, hotels, community centers, athletic clubs, motor vehicle settings, and more.
Guided by Compassion, Committed to Justice
Our Promise to You
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Confidential and Compassionate CounselWe understand that facing criminal charges can be overwhelming. Our firm offers confidential and compassionate legal counsel, providing the support you need while aggressively defending your rights.
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Expert Advocacy in Complex CasesOur firm specializes in defending clients facing serious criminal charges. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the law, we provide expert advocacy to ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
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Strategic Defense for Your FutureWe approach each case with a tailored strategy, focusing on minimizing the impact on your life. Our priority is to safeguard your future by pursuing every possible avenue for a favorable outcome.
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Relentless Representation in CourtOur team is dedicated to standing by your side in court, fiercely defending your case with unwavering commitment. We fight for justice, ensuring that you receive a fair trial and the best possible defense.
Prostitution & Solicitation Penalties in Youngstown, OH
The penalties for prostitution-related offenses vary based on the nature and severity of the crime.
- Engaging in prostitution: Typically a third-degree misdemeanor for a first offense, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. Repeat offenses can lead to increased charges and penalties.
- Compelling prostitution: This serious offense is often charged as a felony. If the victim is a minor or if force, threat, or coercion is involved, it can be a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 11 years in prison and substantial fines.
- Promoting prostitution: Usually charged as a felony, with penalties including significant prison time and fines. The degree of the felony can vary based on the circumstances, such as the involvement of minors or prior convictions.
- Procuring a prostitute: Often charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the specifics of the case, with penalties ranging from jail time to significant fines.
- Soliciting: For a first offense, soliciting is generally a third-degree misdemeanor. Penalties include up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. If the solicitation involves a minor or occurs near a school, it can be elevated to a felony, resulting in harsher penalties.
These penalties reflect Ohio's efforts to address and deter prostitution and related activities, with more severe consequences for offenses involving minors or coercion.
Wobblers in Ohio Prostitution Charges
A "wobbler" is a legal term used to describe an offense that can be charged either as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on case circumstances and the discretion of the prosecutor or judge. This flexibility allows the legal system to consider factors such as the severity of the offense, the defendant's criminal history, and any mitigating or aggravating circumstances.
For example, solicitation or engaging in prostitution is typically charged as a misdemeanor. However, aggravating factors, such as the involvement of a minor, prior convictions, or the offense occurring near a school, can elevate it to a felony.
The "wobbler" designation provides flexibility in the legal process, allowing for more tailored sentencing that reflects the specifics of each case.