Rockville Prostitution Lawyer
Prostitution is the act of engaging in sexual activity in exchange for money. Prostitution is a serious crime in Maryland and it is prosecuted harshly by the legal system. If you or someone you know has been charged with prostitution, it may be in your best interest to contact a Rockville prostitution lawyer.
State prostitution laws are outlined in subtitle 3 in Title 11 of the Maryland Criminal Code, and prostitution could result in jail time. To make matters even worse, a prostitution charge may have a major impact on your community standing, career, and family.
With the help of a qualified criminal defense attorney, you may be able to get your prostitution charges reduced or dropped completely.
Defining Prostitution
As stated by the Criminal Code, the act of meeting for the sole purpose of prostitution is known as assignation, and it also defines the act of prostitution as any sexual contact that is for hire. The following acts are considered “sexual” in the state of Maryland:
- Oral, anal, or penetrative sex
- Any sexual act in which an inanimate or animate object is used to sexually please an individual
- Any act that penetrates the anus or vagina of a person that does involve vaginal intercourse
With any alleged sexual contact, individuals may also be charged with prostitution for engaging in “sexual performances.” These performances are defined as any act or show in which a person performs an act while either fully or partially nude to sexually arouse another person. Anyone charged with this crime should hire a prostitution attorney in Rockville to defend them.
Operating a House of Prostitution
It is also illegal for a person to allow another person to use their dwelling for the act of engaging in prostitution. It is illegal to operate, occupy, or maintain a dwelling for the purpose of prostitution. Any person who allows another person to commit prostitution on their property will be subject to a fine of up to $500 and up to a year in jail.
As a knowledgeable attorney could explain, it is also illegal to financially benefit from prostitution. Anyone who receives proceeds or money through the act of prostitution could be charged with a crime. While it is illegal to receive money from, it is also illegal to promote or conceal the ownership of money earned from an act of prostitution. This crime is punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 and up to 10 years in jail.
Human Trafficking
Maryland prostitution laws also outline penalties for engaging in human trafficking. Human trafficking is defined as:
- Placing or causing a person to reside in any place in which prostitution occurs
- Seducing or enticing a person to engage in the act of prostitution
- Forcibly taking a person to a location to engage in prostitution
- Receiving payment or material goods for engaging in the act of human trafficking
Human trafficking is a serious crime that could have serious consequences. Anyone found guilty of human trafficking may receive up to 10 years in prison and fine of up to $5,000. If a minor is involved, a person could receive up 25 years in prison and fine of up to $15,000. Given the potential consequences of a conviction, individuals accused of prostitution are recommended to contact a Rockville prostitution lawyer immediately.
Speak with a Rockville Prostitution Attorney
If you are currently facing any type of prostitution charge, it is normal to feel confused, angry, and nervous. If you are convicted, you could lose both your freedom and good reputation. By working with a skilled attorney, you may be able to prevent this from occurring.
While prostitution may be a scary charge, it may be possible to clear your name. Reach out to a Rockville prostitution lawyer now to learn more.