Solicitation and Patronizing in Seattle

Our Seattle attorneys have been defending clients against solicitation and patronizing charges in Western Washington for over 20 years. We represent clients in Seattle Municipal Court and handle various cases, including those arising from sting operations in areas like Aurora Avenue North or Rainier Avenue South or through online investigations targeting individuals on platforms such as Craigslist. Our local Seattle defense attorneys deeply understand the tactics used in these prosecutions. With decades of experience and service, we've developed strong strategies that work in Seattle courts.

We craft tailored defenses that challenge evidence, negotiate for reduced charges or penalties, and explore alternative resolutions like diversion programs, including Seattle's "John School." Our King County legal team is skilled at minimizing the long-term consequences of these charges, from protecting your reputation to reducing jail time, fines, and other penalties. If you're facing solicitation or patronizing charges, you do not have to face them alone. Contact our Seattle law offices today to schedule a consultation. Your consultation is free, confidential, and the first step toward defending your future.

Under Washington state law, solicitation of a prostitute and patronizing a prostitute are two distinct offenses. The primary difference lies in the actions involved and how the law targets the individuals committing these acts. Here are the core differences:

• Solicitation of a prostitute refers to the act of offering or agreeing to exchange something of value, such as money, for sexual services. The focus is on the intent and effort to arrange a commercial sexual transaction, regardless of whether the act itself occurs. For example, if someone proposes or negotiates such a transaction in person, through text messages, or online, they can be charged with solicitation. This offense is governed by RCW 9A.88.030, which categorizes it as a misdemeanor in Washington state.
• Patronizing a prostitute is engaging in, or attempting to engage in, a commercial sexual act (RCW 9A.88.110). A patronizing charge is for individuals who complete or attempt the transaction by paying or offering payment for sexual services. The key difference from solicitation is that patronizing focuses on the act of participating in the transaction itself rather than merely arranging it. Under Washington state law, patronizing is also considered a misdemeanor, carrying penalties like fines, jail time, and mandatory educational programs.

While both offenses involve seeking or participating in commercial sexual activity, solicitation emphasizes the initiation or intent to arrange the act. On the other hand, patronizing focuses on the act or attempted act itself. Consulting our experienced Seattle attorneys will help you clarify the charges and protect your rights.

Facing charges for patronizing or soliciting a prostitute in Seattle is an intimidating experience because the penalties are serious. In Washington state, both patronizing and soliciting are misdemeanor offenses with serious legal consequences. If convicted of a misdemeanor in Washington, you face up to 90 days in jail, fines of up to $1,000, and mandatory educational programs like "John School." You will also have a criminal record that impacts your personal and professional life.

If law enforcement charges you with solicitation or prostitution, your case will likely be handled at the:

Seattle Municipal Court

Seattle Justice Center
600 Fifth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98124-4987

Here's what to do if you face solicitation or patronizing charges:

• Avoid Speaking Without Legal Representation: Politely decline to answer questions from Seattle law enforcement without an attorney present to avoid incriminating yourself.
• Consult Our Experienced Attorneys Immediately: Work with a lawyer familiar with Seattle courts and prostitution-related charges to build a strong defense.
• Understand Local Legal Procedures: Learn how the Seattle Municipal Court handles solicitation and patronizing cases.
• Gather Evidence: Provide your attorney with texts, emails, or other evidence that may help challenge the charges against you.
• Explore Diversion Options: Programs like Seattle's "John School" may reduce penalties or lead to case dismissal upon completion.
• Plan For The Long-Term Impact: Discuss expungement possibilities and ways to minimize the impact of a criminal record on your life.

Taking these steps right away can help protect your rights and position you for a favorable outcome. With the right legal support from our Seattle attorneys, you may be able to reduce or even dismiss the charges against you.

Our attorneys have extensive experience defending clients facing patronizing or solicitation charges in Seattle and Western Washington. We understand the tactics used in these cases and how to challenge them in court. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to start building your defense and protecting your future.

The penalties for solicitation and patronizing a prostitute in Seattle are serious and can have long-lasting consequences. If convicted of either offense, you could face up to 90 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000, along with additional court fees. Seattle courts may also require you to complete a mandatory educational program, such as "John School." Further, a conviction can lead to a criminal record that impacts your job opportunities, professional licenses, and even housing prospects. Additionally, it may result in higher insurance premiums and damage to your reputation in the local community.

As experienced Seattle attorneys, our team has two decades of successfully defending our clients. We're local to Seattle, so we know how our city works. You'll often spot us strolling through the bustling Fremont Sunday Market, enjoying relaxing afternoons at Alki Beach, or soaking in the panoramic views of the Seattle skyline. Whether we are supporting the Sounders at Climate Pledge Arena or discovering the natural beauty of the Seward Park peninsula on Lake Washington, we support our community. That is why we are willing to fight for you.

Our Seattle prostitution defense law team firmly believes every solicitation or patronizing charge deserves to be challenged. Whether it's questioning the evidence, negotiating for diversion programs, or fighting for dismissal, we'll find that way. Our Seattle-based team will build a strong strategy to defend your case and protect your future. Call our attorneys today for a free, confidential consultation.

Being accused of patronizing or soliciting a prostitute can be embarrassing and stressful. The city of Seattle and other jurisdictions will conduct stings and surveillance of areas known for prostitution, such as portions of Aurora.

If you are facing a solicitation charge, do not hesitate to give our office a call to discuss your situation.

A solicitation/prostitution charge is considered a misdemeanor, which means the maximum penalty is 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. However, penalties will also typically include administrative fees, probation, stay out of area orders, and even an HIV test.

The government defines “solicitation” as when a person either engages in or agrees to or offers to engage in sexual conduct with another individual in exchange for some type of fee. The term “sexual conduct” is defined very broadly to include any type of sexual contact, not just having actual intercourse. This would include any touching of sexual or intimate parts on a person for the purpose of gratifying the sexual desire of either party or a third individual.

If you are facing a solicitation or patronizing charge, do not hesitate to contact our Seattle, WA office. One of our experienced criminal defense attorneys will be more than happy to walk you through the process and answer your questions.