Los Angeles Prostitution Defense Attorney

Being arrested for prostitution or a related offense in Los Angeles can be a deeply distressing and overwhelming experience. These charges carry potential jail time, significant social stigma, immigration consequences, and the possibility of a permanent criminal record. We understand the stakes at Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc.. As a former Deputy District Attorney with over 14 years of prosecutorial experience, Attorney Michael Kraut brings a uniquely practical perspective to defending clients accused of prostitution-related crimes.

Our sex crimes defense team is committed to protecting your reputation, freedom, and future. Whether you are accused of engaging in prostitution, soliciting, pimping, or pandering, you deserve a strategic, respectful, and discreet defense.

What Qualifies as Prostitution or Solicitation Under California Law?

Under California Penal Code § 647(b), prostitution is defined as engaging in, agreeing to engage in, or soliciting another person to engage in any lewd act or sexual conduct in exchange for money or other consideration. Importantly, this statute criminalizes the conduct of both the person offering the sexual act and the person attempting to obtain it.

You can be arrested even if the act never occurs. An agreement coupled with an overt act (such as exchanging money or going to a hotel room) is often enough for law enforcement to file charges.

Common Criminal Charges in Los Angeles Prostitution Cases

• Solicitation of Prostitution (PC § 647(b)). This charge applies when a person offers or agrees to pay another individual for sexual services, whether or not the sexual act takes place. A conviction can result in up to six months in county jail, probation, and mandatory counseling.
• Engaging in Prostitution (PC § 647(b)). This charge is filed against those accused of offering sexual services in exchange for money or something of value. Even a first offense can carry severe consequences, including fines, community labor, and registration in specific diversion programs.
• Pimping (PC § 266h). This offense involves receiving money or compensation from someone engaged in prostitution. Pimping is a felony in California and carries a potential prison sentence of up to six years, even for a first offense.
• Pandering (PC § 266i). Pandering involves encouraging, persuading, or coercing someone to become involved in prostitution. It can include anything from arranging dates to influencing someone to become a sex worker. This charge is also a felony and can lead to up to six years in prison.

What Are the Legal and Personal Consequences of a Prostitution Conviction?

The consequences of a prostitution-related conviction go far beyond jail time and fines. Depending on the circumstances, individuals may face:

• A permanent criminal record
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens, including deportation
• Mandatory registration as a sex offender in some instances
• Court-mandated STD testing
• Restrictions on employment and housing
• Probation and counseling requirements

Moreover, convictions for these offenses can have a devastating personal impact, affecting relationships, professional opportunities, and standing in the community.

At Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc., we fight to protect your privacy and dignity while building a strong defense designed to minimize or eliminate the criminal justice system's impact on your life.

How Prostitution Charges Are Investigated in Los Angeles

Law enforcement agencies across Los Angeles County often use undercover operations to investigate prostitution-related offenses. These sting operations are frequently conducted in known “hot spot” areas, online platforms, and massage parlors. Officers may pose as clients or sex workers and use recorded conversations and text messages as evidence.

However, these tactics are often subject to abuse, and not every arrest results from legal or ethical police conduct. Entrapment, unlawful search and seizure, or misidentification can form the basis of a successful defense. Our job is to scrutinize the investigation for errors, misconduct, or overreach that can lead to dismissed charges or reduced penalties.

Legal Defenses Against Prostitution, Solicitation, and Pimping Charges

Every case is unique, and the best defense strategy depends on the specific facts of your arrest. At Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc., we tailor every defense to the individual client. Common defense strategies include:

• Lack of Intent. Prostitution charges require a showing that the accused knowingly agreed to engage in a sexual act for compensation. Without clear intent or agreement, the prosecution’s case may fall apart.
• Entrapment. In many cases, undercover police officers induce behavior that would not otherwise occur. If it can be shown that you were pressured or coerced into committing an act by law enforcement, an entrapment defense could lead to a dismissal.
• Insufficient Evidence. Prosecutors must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is no recorded conversation, money exchanged, or physical act, the case may be too weak to proceed.
• Illegal Search or Seizure. If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during the investigation or arrest, any evidence obtained illegally may be suppressed, weakening the case against you.
• Mistaken Identity. Individuals are sometimes wrongfully identified, especially in online sting operations or large-scale sweeps. Establishing an alibi or presenting digital evidence may exonerate the accused.

Can You Avoid Jail for a Prostitution Charge? Diversion and Alternatives

In many Los Angeles County courts, first-time offenders may be eligible for diversion programs or alternative sentencing options. These may include:

• Deferred entry of judgment
• Prostitution education programs
• Community service
• Counseling
• Probation instead of jail time

Completing these programs can often result in the dismissal of charges, allowing you to avoid a criminal conviction entirely. At Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc., we explore every avenue for alternative resolution where appropriate and fight for second chances.

Why Choose Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc.

Michael Kraut has earned a reputation as one of Los Angeles’s most respected criminal defense attorneys. A former Deputy District Attorney, he has handled thousands of criminal cases. He is known for his meticulous preparation, persuasive advocacy, and deep understanding of how prosecutors build and lose their cases.

As a defense attorney, Mr. Kraut uses his knowledge and experience to anticipate the prosecution and law enforcement strategies. His relationships within the legal community can be critical, and his courtroom presence is trusted by judges and respected by adversaries.

Clients who choose Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc. receive:

• Direct access to an experienced criminal attorney, not just a paralegal or assistant
• Honest, strategic advice tailored to your best interests
• Aggressive defense in and out of court
• Discreet handling of sensitive allegations
• A strong focus on minimizing public exposure and long-term consequences

We understand that being accused of a prostitution-related offense is not just a legal matter; it's a personal crisis. Our team treats every client with dignity, respect, and the dedication needed to protect what matters most.

Facing Prostitution Charges? Get Confidential Legal Help Today

If you've been arrested or are under investigation for prostitution, solicitation, pimping, or pandering in Los Angeles or surrounding counties, you don’t have time to wait. Early intervention by a skilled defense attorney often differentiates between jail time and dismissal, public exposure and quiet resolution.

Let Kraut Law Group Criminal & DUI Lawyers, Inc. help you take control of your case and your future. We serve clients across Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties.

Call today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation with Attorney Michael Kraut.
Available 24/7 at 888-334-6344 or 323-464-6453 or through our secure online form.

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