Chicago Prostitution Lawyer

Chicago Prostitution Attorney

Protecting Clients Accused of Soliciting Prostitutes

If you have been charged for prostitution, pandering, or soliciting a prostitute in Illinois, we invite you to consult the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney, without hesitation. With more than 20 years of criminal law experience, Chicago criminal defense attorney, Hal M. Garfinkel, understands the need for discretion as it relates to any case involving illegal sexual activities.

Representing clients throughout Illinois, Attorney Hal M. Garfinkel has taken on high-profile criminal defense cases involving doctors, business executives, teachers, and other professionals, who have been charged with soliciting prostitutes or selling sexual services. Our firm is ready to listen to your concerns before we develop an optimal strategy for your case.

The Penalties for Prostitution and Solicitation in Illinois

Under Illinois law, it is illegal to offer sexual favors in exchange for money or anything else of value. To qualify as prostitution, the act must be for sexual gratification or arousal. As a Class A misdemeanor, you can face up to a year in jail for engaging in prostitution.

Soliciting a prostitute is charged as a separate offense under Illinois law. Like prostitution, it is charged as a Class A misdemeanor. However, if you are accused of soliciting a sexual act from a minor or someone with a "severe or profound intellectual disability" may be charged as a Class 4 felony, which carries enhanced penalties of one to three years in prison.

Promoting prostitution also carries serious penalties. If you are accused of profiting from or advancing a prostitution business, you could be charged with a Class 4 felony. The charge may be upgraded to a Class 3 felony if you commit this offense within 1,000 feet of a school, which is punishable by two to five years in prison.

Chicago Prostitution Attorney Protecting Your Reputation

Not only do you risk a jail sentence if you are convicted on prostitution charges, but your entire life and reputation is at risk. Many people struggle with their marriages and professional careers once accused of having any involvement in prostitution. Whether or not you are found guilty, the allegation alone can harm your credibility and affect you for the rest of your life.

As a former prosecutor, Attorney Hal M. Garfinkel understands how to build a strong case for his clients to counteract against any evidence the prosecution may have. It is because of his knowledge and seasoned proficiency that allows Hal M. Garfinkel to be one of the most sought after criminal defense attorneys in Illinois.

How Can I Defend Against a Charge of Prostitution or Solicitation?

There are numerous different defenses that you could argue in a case of prostitution or solicitation. One of the most commonly employed strategies is citing a lack of intent. If the prosecution cannot establish that you knowingly offered sexual favors or offered to pay for sexual favors, the case against you could be severely weakened.

Other, more specific defenses may apply in unique cases. For example, if you were trafficked or forced into prostitution, you could enter an affirmative defense to the court, which can shield you from prosecution. Additionally, if you are accused of prostitution while under 18, you could be declared immune from prostitution. At the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney, we can discuss all of your possible strategies for your case, looking for mitigating circumstances or viable defenses.

Meet With a Cook County, Illinois Prostitution and Solicitation Defense Lawyer

Contact the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney if you have been arrested on charges of prostitution and need a Chicago prostitution defense attorney, who will address the concerns you have, and who can help you figure out the best solution for your situation. Call 312-629-0669 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.