Under NYS PL § 100.00, a person can be found guilty of criminal solicitation when, with the intent that another person engages in conduct constituting a crime, he/she solicits, requests, commands, importunes, or otherwise attempts to cause such other person to engage in such conduct. While this can apply to any number of crimes, when folks hear of solicitation, they typically think of prostitution.
We understand an arrest for any sex crime is stressful and overwhelming. Having any criminal conviction on your record can be embarrassing, especially when many employers now conduct background checks before offering people a job. Sex offenses in particular can permanently tarnish a person’s reputation. Therefore, preparing a sound defense strategy is crucial for protecting your reputation and future. When you need help after an arrest, call an experienced Astoria solicitation lawyer today to schedule a consultation.
What Is Criminal Solicitation?
Solicitation is a criminal offense involving one person commanding, persuading, or otherwise requesting that another person commit a crime. Criminal solicitation can involve any criminal offense, but it most often relates to prostitution or controlled substances. The degree of the charges can vary greatly, from a Class “B” misdemeanor to a Class “C” felony. While any criminal conviction on a person’s permanent record will have lasting negative consequences, felony convictions can carry lengthier periods of incarceration, probation, and more significant fines and surcharges.
The Solicitation of a Prostitute
In New York State it’s not only illegal to engage in prostitution, it’s also illegal to solicit or request sexual acts in exchange for money or another valuable item. Under New York Penal Law § 230.04, patronizing another person for prostitution, meaning requesting sexual favors in exchange for payment, is a third-degree, Class A misdemeanor offense, and is potentially punishable by up to a year in jail or three (3) years of probation.
An arrest for soliciting sexual conduct from a minor under the age of fifteen (15) significantly increases the severity of the offense, and a conviction is a Class “E” felony. If the minor is under the age of eleven (11), the charge is elevated again to a Class “D” felony. Other details, such as prior arrests for crimes involving prostitution, as well as prior felony convictions, could also increase the potential for severe penalties.
It’s important for anyone charged with a criminal offense to thoroughly understand their rights and their options. Mike Schillinger is an experienced solicitation attorney in Astoria, and is available to review your case and answer specific questions about the charges and potential punishments.
Solicitation of Prostitution and Related Offenses
Crimes involving prostitution often include the following:
- Promoting prostitution
- Prostitution itself
- Solicitation or patronizing a prostitute
- Loitering for the purpose of engaging in prostitution
The consequences and sentencing guidelines for each charge vary significantly. Potential punishments depend upon the circumstances and degree of the criminal offense. Fortunately, an Astoria solicitation attorney can go over the complete list and answer any questions you may have.
Call a Seasoned Astoria Solicitation Attorney Today
A guilty conviction for any type of sex crime can negatively impact your life for many years to come. Even misdemeanor convictions show up every time you submit to a background check potentially causing problems with everything from applying for a new job to moving to a new neighborhood.
Even if the court date is months away, the most effective way to reach a favorable outcome in your case is to begin preparing your defense immediately. Mike Schillinger is a skilled solicitation lawyer who will aggressively represent you and advocate on your behalf—inside and outside of the courtroom. Call today to begin an investigation and evidence review.
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