Prostitution
There are many different kinds of crimes in Minnesota under the broad category of prostitution. These crimes range from traditional prostitution to sex-trafficking and solicitation. In recent years, many counties have increased efforts at curbing prostitution and sex-trafficking by placing greater emphasis on law enforcement sting operations and investigations. Our attorneys have defended people charged in a broad assortment of prostitution and sex-trafficking cases. We know this area of the law and are prepared to defend you.
While the crime of prostitution may seem straight forward, the Minnesota statutes defining the various crimes and particular conduct that constitute the elements of those crimes are complex and complicated. The police routinely run afoul of constitutional protections in this area, and people charged with this offense may never know it unless they consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our attorneys have successfully challenged the police and prosecutors in prostitution cases. We have a knowledge of the law and the practical experience to successfully defend you.
One of the most common crimes in this area involves solicitation. Under Minnesota law, a person may be charged with a misdemeanor offense for hiring, offering to hire, or agreeing to hire an individual 18 years of age or older to engage in sexual penetration or sexual contact. The offering to hire or agreeing to hire language in the statute does not require evidence of a formal contract or negotiation. Rather, it is routinely the case that the police will post an advertisement online, and then communicate with a suspect via e-mail or text message. Usually, when a suspect shows up in response to an ad, the e-mail or text message log will include language sufficient to meet the “offer to hire” or “agree to hire” language within the statute. However, the language may be insufficient to prove that an actual offer or agreement to hire existed, which is why anyone charged with this kind of offense should consult with a competent criminal defense lawyer. A first-time soliciation offense carries with it a mandatory minimum fine of $500 and a mandatory “penalty assessment” between $500 and $750.
This page only begins to describe the numerous prostitution offenses in Minnesota. There are many other types of crimes and penalties that attach to all kinds of conduct within the broad umbrella of prostitution and sex-trafficking. Our attorneys have a wealth of experience in defending against felony, gross misdemeanor and misdemeanor prostitution and sex-trafficking charges. If you are under investigation or have been charged with a prostitution offense, contact us for a no-cost consultation. We are available 24/7 to assist you.