If you’re facing prostitution charges in Massachusetts, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer right away.
Prostitution is a misdemeanor crime in Massachusetts. We understand it can be frightening to face prostitution charges. If you are facing prostitution charges, don’t face the prosecution alone – an experienced defense attorney can help you navigate your best options for a favorable outcome.
If you or a loved one is facing prostitution charges, contact the Law Offices of Keren Goldenberg today to discuss the details of your case: online or by phone: 978-221-2503 (Lowell), 617-431-2701 (Belmont).
Charged in Massachusetts
With few exceptions, prostitution is illegal nationwide. Charges can occur at various stages of a typical “transaction” and against individuals offering, soliciting, or facilitating service. Importantly, prostitution charges can occur for offering or agreeing to provide sexual service in exchange for a fee even if no sexual services are provided. In Massachusetts, a person cannot be charged for having previously engaged in prostitution-related activity based solely on reputation.
A separate Massachusetts law criminalizes soliciting the services of a prostitute. This includes paying, agreeing to pay, or offering to pay for sexual activity. It is also a crime to organize and facilitate prostitution services.
Penalties for prostitution charges in Massachusetts
Prostitution is a misdemeanor crime in Massachusetts. It can carry a punishment of up to one year in prison and/or a fine of up to $500. Penalties may be more severe for repeat offenders. Convicted individuals may also be required to register as a sex offender.
Registering as a sex offender severely limits where a person can live, work, and how they can plan for their future. It is highly advisable that anybody facing prostitution charges of any kind hire a lawyer experienced in handling prostitution charges.
How an experienced attorney can help
Successful defense against prostitution charges requires representation by an attorney familiar with the law and your local courts. There are a number of defenses available – here we’ll outline a few. To discuss the specific details of your prostitution charges and the defenses that may be available to you, contact an attorney.
No fee
By Massachusetts law, an agreed exchange of sex or sexual conduct for a fee is required for a crime to be committed. Offering or soliciting sexual activity without a fee is not a crime. Gifts do not violate the law.
No sexual conduct
An experienced attorney can help make the argument that the paid behavior was not sexual behavior and therefore not criminal.
Lack of evidence
Perhaps there is no recorded agreement to engage in activities that would be considered prostitution by law, or perhaps the evidence is coming from an untrustworthy witness. There are always opportunities to question the evidence brought by the prosecution to defend your rights.
What to do if you’re facing prostitution charges
If you are facing prostitution charges, another prostitution-related crime, or any other sexual crimes, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced attorney right away. If you are ready to meet with us for a free, confidential consultation to see how we can help you win your case, contact the offices of Keren Goldenberg today.
The Law Offices of Keren Goldenberg are conveniently located in Lowell and Belmont, Massachusetts at the following locations:
| The Law Offices of Keren Goldenberg
97 Central St. #403 Lowell, MA 01852 |
The Law Offices of Keren Goldenberg
19A Alexander Ave. Belmont, MA 02478 |
Sources:
Massachusetts Disorderly Conduct, Indecent Exposure, and Prostitution Laws – FindLaw