Prostitution, as defined by Florida Statute § 796.07 (1) (a), means the giving or receiving of the body for sexual activity for hire but excludes sexual activity between spouses. Although it may seem quite cut and dry, it is important to be aware that there are many acts, actions and incidences that could fall under the umbrella of prostitution outside of the obvious. Many Floridians are not aware of the finer points of the law surrounding prostitution, including the fact that one could be charged with soliciting prostitution, offering to commit prostitution, or even aiding and abetting the act of prostitution.
Any and all acts or incidences associated with prostitution, per the provisions of Florida State Statutes, may carry a criminal charge. § 796.07 (4) (a, b, c) state that any person charged with such a crime will face a misdemeanor of the second degree for the first incident, a misdemeanor of the first degree for the second incident, and a felony of the third degree for the third incident, respectively. It is important to note that these charges could carry imprisonment terms ranging from sixty days to one year, as well as extended imprisonment and fines for felony charges. Even a first time conviction for solicitation of prostitution carries a fine of $5,000.
We implore you to contact us with any questions regarding the law on prostitution or to examine any charges in detail. Many times, the person charged with the crime may have been charged unlawfully or may have grounds for alternative resolutions through the court, and it is important to consult competent and skilled attorneys when dealing with such criminal charges. Our skilled team of attorneys, having once served as State Prosecutors, maintain the experience and training necessary to assist with these charges and more.