Understanding Solicitation Laws Under California PC 647
California Penal Code 647(b) addresses solicitation and related offenses, imposing serious consequences for those charged under this statute. If you’re facing solicitation charges in California, understanding your rights and legal options is crucial for protecting your future.
Our skilled sex crimes attorneys at Wallin & Klarich can guide you through the legal process. Call Wallin & Klarich today toll-free at (877) 466-5245 for your free phone consultation with one of our sex crimes attorneys near you.
What Constitutes Solicitation in California?
Under PC 647(b), solicitation occurs when someone:
- Engages in solicitation for prostitution
- Agrees to engage in an act of prostitution
The law applies equally to both those offering services and those seeking to purchase them. Importantly, no actual exchange needs to take place for charges to be filed – the mere act of agreeing or offering is sufficient for prosecution.
Penalties Under PC 647(b)
A violation of PC 647(b) is typically charged as a misdemeanor, carrying potential penalties of:
- Up to 6 months in county jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Probation
Subsequent offenses can result in enhanced penalties, and certain aggravating factors may lead to more severe consequences.
Legal Defenses to Solicitation Charges
Several legal defenses may be available depending on the specific circumstances of your case:
- Lack of intent to engage in prostitution
- Insufficient evidence
- Police misconduct or entrapment
- Mistaken identity
- Constitutional violations during the arrest
How Wallin & Klarich Can Help
If you’re facing solicitation charges, our experienced criminal defense and sex crimes team at Wallin & Klarich can provide the robust legal representation you need. Our approach includes:
Comprehensive Case Analysis
Our attorneys thoroughly review all evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage, to identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and develop effective defense strategies.
Protection of Your Rights
We ensure your constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process, from questioning to trial. If law enforcement violated your rights during the arrest or investigation, we’ll work to have evidence suppressed or charges dismissed.
Strategic Defense Planning
Our team develops customized defense strategies based on the specific circumstances of your case. We may negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options when appropriate.
Minimizing Collateral Consequences
A solicitation conviction can have far-reaching effects on your personal and professional life. We work diligently to minimize these impacts, protecting your reputation and future opportunities.
Additionally, for people without a criminal history, we can oftentimes get our clients diversion, which will result in the dismissal of the entire case, in exchange for the client performing some court ordered requirements. Typically, education classes about engaging in prostitution (being a sex worker) or soliciting prostitution (seeking the services of a sex worker). This varies by case, so call our office today for a consultation!
Contact Wallin & Klarich Today
If you are facing solicitation charges, you need to contact our aggressive sex crimes attorneys at Wallin & Klarich immediately. With 40+ years of experience, our attorneys at Wallin & Klarich have helped many clients avoid criminal convictions and kept them free from serving prison or jail sentences. We know the most effective strategies to argue on your behalf, and we will do everything in our power to help you achieve the best possible result in your case.
Wallin & Klarich has offices throughout Southern California including Irvine, Pasadena, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Torrance, Victorville, West Covina, and Anaheim. Also, our law firm can handle many types of criminal cases statewide.
Discover how our team can assist you. Contact us today, toll-free at (877) 466-5245 for a free phone consultation with a skilled sex crimes attorney near you.
