Solicitation/Patronizing

In Everett, Washington, charges of solicitation and patronizing can carry serious legal, social, and personal consequences. Solicitation involves the act of seeking or offering sexual services in exchange for compensation, while patronizing refers to the act of engaging in these services.

Washington state law treats these offenses as crimes that can result in fines, jail time, and a long-lasting criminal record. Accusations of these crimes can also harm your reputation significantly and affect your relationships, employment, and overall standing in the community.

The state takes a multifaceted approach to solicitation and patronizing, involving state laws and local ordinances that can differ based on their application. Law enforcement agencies also often use sting operations and undercover tactics to find these offenders, which can lead to situations where you may feel you were entrapped or even unfairly targeted. Without the right legal representation, the chaos and complexity of these charges and what they can mean for your future prove to be daunting and overwhelming.

A skilled criminal defense attorney with experience in handling solicitation and patronizing cases is invaluable. You want someone who has comprehensive knowledge and understanding when it comes to Everett’s legal landscape, including how evidence is collected and presented.

An experienced attorney can evaluate the details of your specific case and determine if your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest. Count on them to assess if there was probable cause or improper entrapment tactics used.

Understanding the legal statutes associated with these charges is important if you are facing them. Washington state has very specific laws that define these offenses and outline their penalties.

• Patronizing a Prostitute (RCW 9A.88.030): This statute makes it illegal to engage in or agree to engage in sexual conduct for a fee. A conviction for patronizing a prostitute is typically charged as a misdemeanor but can escalate depending on aggravating factors, like prior offenses or involvement with a minor.
• Promoting Prostitution in the Second Degree (RCW 9A.88.080): While this primarily addresses those who profit from prostitution, this law is often also used in cases where solicitation involves a third-party arrangement. Violations of this are classified as Class C felonies, which carry severe penalties, including prison time and significant fines.
• Permitting Prostitution (RCW 9A.88.085): This statute targets property owners or operators who knowingly allow their premises to be used for prostitution. While it isn’t directly linked to solicitation or patronizing, it still can apply in cases involving organized or recurring incidents.
• Commercial Sexual Abuse of a Minor (RCW 9.68A.100): If solicitation or patronizing involves a minor, the charges escalate significantly under this statute. You can ultimately face felony charges, harsher penalties, and mandatory registration as a sex offender if convicted.
• Everett Municipal Code and Local Ordinances: This also lists specific provisions that address solicitation and prostitution within city limits. These ordinances complement state law and include fines or mandatory participation in diversion programs for first-time offenders.

When you are accused of these crimes, it is easy to see why you must seek immediate legal assistance and start building a strong defense.

Everett, Washington, known for its history and busy downtown area, is the largest city in the county and serves as a hub for business, culture, and tourism. However, like many other urban centers, it also faces challenges related to criminal activity, including solicitation and patronizing.

The city’s proximity to major transportation routes and its diverse population creates an environment that law enforcement monitors closely to address illegal activities, including those related to prostitution.

In Everett, solicitation and patronizing charges often arise in areas with high foot traffic. Law enforcement agencies actively conduct undercover operations and use surveillance to identify and apprehend the people involved in these activities.

While these efforts can help curb this kind of illegal behavior, they can also lead to arrests of those who may not fully understand the legal consequences of their actions.

Facing solicitation or patronizing charges in Everett, Washington, is a serious matter that demands professional legal representation. These charges carry potential penalties, like fines, jail time, and mandatory education programs, and also pose risks to your reputation, career, and personal relationships.

A skilled criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the legal system, protect your rights, and mitigate the consequences of these allegations.

An experienced attorney understands the specific tactics used by law enforcement in Everett, such as sting operations and undercover investigations. They can assess whether your arrest involved improper entrapment, lack of probable cause, or procedural errors that could strengthen your defense.

Additionally, a knowledgeable attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges, seek alternative sentencing, or secure a dismissal. Their expertise is invaluable in helping you avoid the long-term effects of a criminal record, ensuring you have a chance at protecting your future.

We strongly believe that every solicitation and patronizing charge can be effectively challenged with the right legal strategy. For over 20 years, our attorneys have successfully defended clients facing criminal charges across Washington. We continuously deliver results that protect your rights and future.

So if you or a loved one is dealing with a solicitation or patronizing charge, it’s time to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney because these cases require a deep understanding of the law and a more proactive approach to ensure a favorable outcome.

A skilled attorney can challenge the circumstances of your arrest, look closely at the evidence against you, and negotiate to reduce or dismiss charges whenever possible. Our dedicated legal team in Everett is committed to providing aggressive and effective defense strategies to protect your freedom, reputation, and livelihood.

Being accused of soliciting or patronizing a prostitute can be one of the most embarrassing and stressful crimes to face. These charges are more prevalent in some jurisdictions as opposed to others due to local law enforcement agencies conducting stings to catch potential customers (also commonly referred to as “Johns.”)

A solicitation charge is a misdemeanor which means the maximum penalty you can receive is a 90 day jail sentence and a $1,000 fine. In addition to that, courts will typically order probation, stay out of area instructions, a DNA test, and additional administrative fees and court costs which can push the total financial penalty above $1,000.

“Solicitation” is when an individual engages or agrees to or offers to engage in sexual conduct with another individual in return for a fee. The definition of sexual conduct is very broad. It includes any type of sexual contact, not just actual intercourse.  Any type of touching of sexual or intimate parts done with the intent of gratifying sexual desire of either party or a third party is deemed sexual conduct.

If you have questions about your current case, do not hesitate to give our office a call. Our professional staff and attorneys will be more than happy to provide you with a free consultation.