Prostitution & Solicitation Attorney in Hudson County

PROSTITUTION ATTORNEY IN HUDSON COUNTY, NEW JERSEY

Prostitution which is often referred to as “the world’s oldest profession” is still prevalent in New Jersey. Nowadays, individuals interested in soliciting prostitution can quickly go online to such websites as craigslist or backpages and set up a rendezvous at a nearby motel. However, police are also aware of this and conduct routine surveillance at popular motels looking for suspicious activity. Moreover, law enforcement will systematically set up undercover operations with the use of fake online ads and undercover female police officers posing as prostitutes. This is also where many defendants make a huge mistake and think by asking “are you a cop?” that an undercover cop cannot lie and will have to admit their identity. In reality, this is simply an urban legend and police are allowed to lie and maintain their undercover character. Moreover, setting up online ads can quickly lead to upgraded charges such as promoting prostitution which can be much more serious. If you have been charged with prostitution or solicitation it is important that you contact an experienced New Jersey criminal attorney today to learn more about your rights and possible defenses during a free and confidential consultation.

WHAT IS PROSTITUTION & SOLICITATION?

Under New Jersey law, prostitution is defined as the offer or acceptance to engage in sexual activity in exchange for money or property. This means that if someone either makes or accepts an offer to provide sex or sexual acts in the exchange for something of value, they have committed prostitution.

WHAT IS CONSIDERED PAYMENT TO A PROSTITUTE?

Payment is considered money or anything of value in exchange for sexual acts. This can be trading a watching or even drugs such as heroin for a sex would constitute payment under the statute. It should also be noted that the promise to pay or representation that you will pay for the sexual services in the future may be enough to be prosecuted.

WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF “SEXUAL ACTIVITY”?

This is classified as any kind of sexual relation including traditional sexual intercourse, oral sex, masturbation, touching in a sexual area or even the buttocks. Basically, if you are paying another person to perform acts on you or to themselves for your sexual gratification or arousal it can be considered prostitution.

PROSTITUTION CHARGES IN HOBOKEN, NEW JERSEY

In New Jersey, Solicitation of Prostitution under 2C:34-1 is typically a disorderly persons offense (as long as it is a first offense) and is punishable by up to 6 months in county jail, probation, fines and permanent criminal record. Municipal courts are often hesitant to downgrade or dismiss these charges because judges and prosecutors want to set an example that they do not go easy on crimes involving public welfare. This is why it is important that you consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to learn your options. At William Proetta Criminal Law, our lawyers are experienced in defending clients against prostitution charges. If you would like to learn more, contact our office today at (201) 793-8018