Have you been arrested for prostitution in Birmingham, Alabama? If so, you could face serious criminal penalties that may follow you for years. Fortunately, you still have time to defend yourself with help from the award-winning defense lawyers at Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C.
Our attorneys have 100 years of combined experience, including in representing clients in Jefferson County and throughout the State of Alabama. We know how local prosecutors build sex crimes cases and will do everything in our power to help you secure as favorable an outcome as possible under the law.
Call our law offices today at 205-930-9800 for a free case review with a Birmingham prostitution lawyer to learn about your legal rights.
How Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. Can Help With a Prostitution Case in Birmingham, AL
Being charged with prostitution in Birmingham, AL, can be both intimidating and humiliating. Law enforcement and prosecutors may act as though a defendant is already guilty, but that is not the case. It’s key to remember throughout this process that you’re afforded numerous constitutional rights, including the presumption of innocence.
At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we’ve successfully defended clients facing allegations like these, so we know how to expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and understand how local courts operate, both inside and out.
Our Birmingham sex crime lawyers can:
- Review the details of your arrest to determine whether police followed proper procedures
- Investigate all the state’s evidence and collected witness statements for possible inconsistencies or challenges
- File motions to suppress any unlawfully obtained evidence
- Represent you aggressively in court if your case goes to trial
We understand that an accusation alone can damage your standing in the community. Our legal team can handle your case with discretion and an unwavering commitment to your defense. Contact us today to get started with a Birmingham prostitution attorney.
Alabama’s Prostitution Laws
Prostitution is defined under Alabama Code § 13A-12-120 and related statutes. The law makes it a crime to engage in, agree to engage in, or offer to engage in sexual activity in exchange for “monetary consideration or other thing of value.” Both the person offering and the person soliciting sexual acts can face criminal charges.
Alabama law discusses several related offenses in Alabama Code § 13A-12-121, including:
- Prostitution
- Soliciting prostitution
- Promoting prostitution
A conviction of any of the above kinds of behavior can lead to serious long-term penalties and consequences.
What Are the Penalties for a Prostitution Conviction in Alabama?
The penalties for a prostitution-related conviction in Birmingham depend on the exact charges you’re facing and whether you have prior offenses, among other factors.
For most first-time offenders, prostitution and solicitation are Class A misdemeanors, punishable by:
- Up to one year in jail
- Fines of up to $6,000
- Mandatory court fees and probation terms
However, certain factors can increase the severity of your case.
For example:
- If the alleged act involved a minor, the charge can rise to a Class B felony
- Repeat convictions can also result in harsher sentencing and longer jail terms
Our Birmingham criminal defense lawyers can evaluate the specifics of your situation and formulate a robust defense strategy.
Collateral Consequences of a Prostitution Conviction
A prostitution conviction can also lead to serious collateral consequences, including:
- Damage to personal and professional reputation
- Job loss or difficulty obtaining future employment
- Restrictions on professional licensing
- Immigration complications (for non-citizens)
These impacts can last long after you’ve served all of the penalties that the criminal court imposes. Our Birmingham sex crimes attorneys understand the nuances of Alabama law and will work diligently to protect your rights and future. Don’t face these charges alone; secure experienced legal representation immediately.
Possible Defenses You Can Raise in Response to Prostitution Charges in Birmingham
Your defense strategy will ultimately depend on the facts and circumstances surrounding your arrest.
However, our criminal defense lawyers can potentially raise several common defenses, such as:
- Entrapment: If law enforcement officers coerced you into committing a crime you otherwise would not have committed, the case may be dismissed.
- Lack of intent: You must have knowingly agreed to exchange sexual activity for money or compensation to be convicted.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must present solid proof of both the offer and intent, not just suspicion and circumstantial evidence.
- Violation of your constitutional rights: For example, if the police conducted an illegal search, we can seek to have that evidence excluded.
If you hire us to represent you, our Birmingham criminal defense attorneys can thoroughly investigate your case and identify your best course of action.
Contact Our Experienced Birmingham Prostitution Attorneys for a Free Consultation Today
Being accused of prostitution is serious, but you still have rights and may have solid legal options for responding as well. At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., our attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience defending clients against various sex crimes and are ready to put that experience to work for you.
Contact our Birmingham prostitution lawyers today to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more about how we can help you with your charges.