Washington DC Prostitution Lawyer

Facing criminal prostitution charges can be humiliating. In addition to embarrassment, you have to face potential legal penalties. A DC prostitution case is best handled by a local DC criminal defense lawyer, one who knows the local legal community and all of the options available to their clients.

Prostitution Defined

DC prostitution laws are strict and they are designed to punish those people believed to play a role in the sex trade. According to statute, prostitution is defined as sexual contact with someone else in exchange for a fee. This does not have to be intercourse and it does not have to be cash. The prostitution laws can be applied to a number of other various scenarios.

Prostitution Free Zones

In DC the Metropolitan Police Department combats prostitution in a variety of ways. One of these is by marking what are called “Prostitution Free Zones”. In these zones, designated in certain areas of the city at certain times, it becomes unlawful for a “group of two or more persons to congregate on public space…for the purpose of engaging in prostitution or prostitution-related offenses.” If caught in violation of these rules, an officer will typically issue a warning and order to disperse before making an arrest. Penalties for violating such a zone include a potential $300 fine and a 180 day jail sentence.

Your Options When Facing Prostitution Charges

Prostitution charges carry a particularly heavy stigma. When you are accused of prostitution, you are not only risking your freedom; your reputation and personal relationships may be on the line as well. A DC prostitution lawyer knows what you are going through and stands ready to defend your name in court. Whether you were entrapped by a prostitution sting, or if the evidence used against you was obtained illegally, a DC prostitution attorney will evaluate your case and help you determine the best course of action.

Facing criminal charges of prostitution can be stressful and has the potential to change your life. If you are facing charges like these, consulting with experienced DC prostitution lawyer Jason Kalafat can be the first step towards a potentially positive outcome in court.