Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
In the state of Illinois, it is illegal to exchange a sex act for anything that has value. The charges brought against the defendants in prostitution cases are determined by their role as promoter, seller, or buyer.
For example, on November 1st, a man from Bellwood was accused of forcing a woman into prostitution in 2016 and 2017.
The crime of prostitution is only applicable to a seller who agrees to perform or knowingly offers sex acts for anything of value, which is cash in most cases. For the buyer, the criminal charges of solicitation and meaningfully patronizing a prostitute are applied.
It is also criminal to promote prostitution in order to make money. An individual is guilty of promoting prostitution if he or she actively:
- Profits from prostitution
- Convinces or compels another person to become a prostitute or
- Offers situations or arranges others to engage in acts of prostitution
Those who go through our legal system can easily be found guilty. If they are convicted, they can serve months (if not years) in jail and pay steep fines. If you are faced with charges of prostitution, you need an experienced prostitution defense attorney in Chicago by your side who can argue that the arrest resulted from an invasion of privacy, entrapment, or other illegal tactic.
The Categories and Penalties for Prostitution
Over 30% of female inmates in the majority of women’s jails are convicted prostitutes.
Prostitution itself is a Class A misdemeanor that is punishable by fine up to $2,500. Those charged can also face up to one year in prison. There are several potential penalties for prostitution:
Those charged with a solicitation of a sexual act will face less than one year in prison and up to $2,500 in fines. If that solicitation is aimed at someone who is intellectually disabled or a minor, then the charge is increased to a Class 4 felony. This higher level carries a prison sentence of one to three years and fines up to $25,000.
Individuals faced with a charge of promoting prostitution should know it is also a Class 4 felony with the same charges as above. If the crime is executed within 1,000 feet of a school, it is increased to a Class 3 felony that is punishable by a prison sentence of two to five years and a maximum of $25,000 in fines.
The patronizing of a prostitute is also a Class 4 felony with the same punishment as other crimes in its class. It too can be increased if committed within 1,000 feet of a school. If this is the case, the charge is escalated to a Class 3 felony.
The promotion of juvenile prostitution is one of the highest level of felony for this category. It is a Class 1 felony that carries a prison term of four to 15 years. Fines can be as high as $25,000. However, if this crime is committed within 1,000 feet of a school, it is increased to a Class X felony that carries a prison term of six to 60 years.
Hire an Experienced Prostitution Defense Attorney in Chicago
At the law firm of David Freidberg, we start all of our cases the same way- by listening to our clients. We will sit down with you in order to hear the details of what happened in your situation. Your accusers and the police will have their own versions of the story. We will present yours.
The informants used by the police can be unreliable. Local authorities can also employ illegal methods to make arrests or serve warrants that are not valid. Our firm has the experience to challenge these unconstitutional practices and get them thrown out of court.
The people bringing charges against you will have attorneys on their side. You deserve to have a lawyer who will fight back. Schedule your free consultation or all (312) 560-7100 today to discuss your case.
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