If you’re like many people who have been charged with the crime of prostitution, you’re not sure what happens next. Will you go to jail? Will you have to pay fines? What happens to the person who hired you? And what, exactly, does the law say? For most people, it makes sense to talk to a prostitution defense lawyer.
What Happens if You’re Charged With Prostitution?
You always have the right to an attorney, so if the police accuse you of prostitution, it’s important that you let them know you want to talk to your lawyer. You don’t have to answer any questions, and you don’t have to tell the police whether you’re guilty or not guilty.
The police have one job, and it’s not to help you out.
If police charge you with prostitution, you’ll most likely spend at least a little time in jail. You’ll have to go to court for your initial appearance – that’s when you’re formally charged with a crime. The judge will tell you that you’re being charged with a prostitution offense, and you’ll have the chance to plead guilty or not guilty. If you have an attorney, he or she will come to your arraignment and enter your plea for you.
From there, depending on what you plead (your attorney may advise you to plead not guilty), your case can go one of two ways. The judge will set bail and tell you the conditions under which he or she will let you go until your next court appearance. If the judge requires a cash bond, you’ll have to pay money to get out of jail; if you don’t have it, you’ll wait in jail until your next court date.
One thing is certain: Unless the charges are dropped, you’ll have to go back to court. Your lawyer will go with you and defend you.
What Happens to the Person Who Hired You?
The person who hires you can be charged with the crime of patronizing prostitutes, soliciting prostitutes or pandering. (See “What Happens When You’re Busted for Soliciting a Prostitute in Milwaukee” for more information.) He or she can go to jail for up to 9 months and pay fines of up to $10,000.
What Could Happen to You if You’re Convicted of Prostitution?
Wisconsin law says that prostitution is the crime of exchanging sex or a sex act for anything of value.
If you’re convicted of prostitution, which is a Class A misdemeanor, you could spend up to 9 months in jail and pay up to $10,000 in fines.
Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer About Prostitution Charges?
If you’ve been accused of prostitution, we may be able to help you. Call us at 414-383-6700 for a free case review. We’ll answer your questions and give you case-specific legal advice you can use now.
