Soliciting someone for sexual acts typically refers to the act of seeking or requesting another person's participation in sexual activities in exchange for money, goods, or other considerations. It can involve various forms of communication, such as verbal requests, written messages, or online interactions. If you or anyone you know is facing legal issues related to solicitation in California, it is essential to seek professional legal counsel. At Sex Crimes Attorney, we can provide invaluable advice and representation to protect your rights and ensure a fair legal process.

Understanding Solicitation

Under Penal Code Section 647(b), solicitation is defined as the act of seeking or requesting another person's involvement in sexual activities, often in exchange for monetary compensation, goods, or other forms of consideration. The statute focuses on soliciting specific sexual activities, such as engaging in lewd or lascivious acts, or prostitution.

The Elements of Sexual Solicitation in California

To establish a case of sexual solicitation in California, prosecutors must prove the presence of specific elements, which include:

  • Intent to Solicit — The prosecution must demonstrate that the individual had the specific intent to solicit or request another person's participation in sexual activities in exchange for compensation.
  • Communication — Sexual solicitation involves some form of communication between the solicitor and the target individual, which may occur in person or through electronic means like text messages or online platforms.
  • Presence in a Public Place — Under Penal Code 647(b), solicitation typically occurs in public places, such as streets, parks, or areas accessible to the public.
  • Specific Request for Sexual Acts — The solicitor must make an explicit request for sexual acts in exchange for compensation, leaving no room for misinterpretation.
  • Agreement or Act of Solicitation — While an actual sexual act does not need to occur for a conviction, there must be evidence of an agreement or a direct act of solicitation, demonstrating the solicitor's intent and willingness to proceed with the transaction.

Examples of Solicitation

Sexual solicitation can take various forms, and the following are some examples of situations where sexual solicitation may occur:

Street-Level Solicitation

An individual approaches another person on a street corner, in a park, or a red-light district, offering sexual services in exchange for money or goods.

Online Dating Apps

In the context of online dating platforms or social media, someone sends unsolicited explicit messages or photos to another person, attempting to solicit sexual activities.

Prostitution Stings

Undercover law enforcement officers pose as potential clients to catch individuals who are engaging in the solicitation of prostitution.

Sexting

Sending sexually explicit messages, photos, or videos to another person without their consent, with the intent to arouse or entice them sexually, can be considered a form of sexual solicitation.

Online Chat Rooms

In internet chat rooms or forums, individuals may engage in sexually suggestive conversations or request explicit images or videos from others.

Webcams and Live Streaming

On live-streaming platforms, individuals may solicit others to perform sexual acts on camera in exchange for money or gifts.

Sex Trafficking

In the context of human trafficking, traffickers may solicit or recruit vulnerable individuals, often minors, into the commercial sex trade through force, fraud, or coercion.

Grooming Minors

An adult or older individual may engage in online communication with a minor, gradually building trust and manipulating them into participating in sexual activities.

Massage Parlors

Some unscrupulous massage parlors may solicit sexual services from their clients under the guise of offering legitimate massage therapy.

Penalties for Solicitation

  • First-time offenders may face a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in county jail.
  • Repeat offenders may face increased fines and longer jail sentences.
  • If the defendant is under 18 years old at the time of the offense, they may be eligible for diversion programs instead of criminal penalties.

Factors Influencing Sexual Solicitation Charges in California

Sexual solicitation charges in California can be influenced by several factors that may impact the potential legal consequences for the accused. Law enforcement, prosecutors, and the courts consider these factors when determining charges and sentencing. The following are some key factors that can influence sexual solicitation charges in California:

Age of the Parties Involved

The age of the parties involved is a critical factor in sexual solicitation cases. If the solicitation involves a minor, it significantly increases the seriousness of the offense and can lead to more severe charges and penalties.

Presence of Minors

The presence of minors during the solicitation can escalate the charges. Soliciting sexual acts in the vicinity of minors, such as in a public park or near a school, may result in enhanced penalties due to the potential harm caused to the young witnesses.

Online Solicitation

Engaging in sexual solicitation through online platforms, social media, or chat rooms can result in additional charges, especially if the communication involves minors. Online solicitation is closely monitored by law enforcement, and individuals caught engaging in such activities may face enhanced penalties.

Prior Criminal History

A defendant's prior criminal history, especially related to sexual offenses, can significantly impact the charges and penalties for sexual solicitation. Previous convictions for similar offenses can lead to more severe charges and harsher sentencing.

Use of Force or Coercion

If force, threats, or coercion were involved in the solicitation, it may lead to additional charges, such as assault, extortion, or kidnapping. These elements can elevate the seriousness of the offense and result in more severe penalties.

Legal Defenses

There are several legal defenses that a skilled attorney can use to challenge allegations of sexual solicitation. Each case is unique, and the specific circumstances surrounding the alleged offense will determine which defense strategies are most appropriate. Here are some common legal defenses against sexual solicitation charges.

Lack of Intent

One of the essential elements in a sexual solicitation case is the intent of the accused. To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused had the specific intent to solicit another person for sexual acts in exchange for compensation. A defense attorney may argue that there was no genuine intent to solicit, or that any statements made were taken out of context or misconstrued.

Entrapment

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement officers induce or coerce an individual to commit a crime that they would not have otherwise committed. If the accused can demonstrate that they were lured into committing the sexual solicitation offense by law enforcement through entrapment, it may serve as a viable defense.

Mistake of Fact

A mistake of fact defense is applicable when the accused had a genuine belief, though mistaken, that the person being solicited was of legal age or consented to the solicitation. This defense may be relevant in cases involving the solicitation of a minor if the accused reasonably believed the individual was of legal age.

Lack of Evidence

A strong defense may challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution. This could include questioning the reliability of witness statements, challenging the authenticity of electronic communications, or identifying flaws in the investigation process. Insufficient or unreliable evidence can weaken the prosecution's case.

Consent

If the accused can demonstrate that the alleged sexual activity was consensual and not contingent on any form of compensation, it could form the basis for a defense against sexual solicitation charges. Consent plays a crucial role in determining whether an alleged solicitation occurred.

Constitutional Rights Violations

Defense attorneys may explore whether the accused's constitutional rights were violated during the investigation or arrest. Any violation of the accused's Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures or Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination could result in the exclusion of evidence or dismissal of charges.

Lack of Corroborating Evidence

For sexual solicitation charges, prosecutors often rely on corroborating evidence to support the allegations. A defense attorney may challenge the reliability or credibility of such evidence, weakening the prosecution's case.

Negotiations and Plea Bargaining

Engaging in negotiations allows both the prosecution and the defense to find common ground, potentially leading to a resolution that benefits all parties involved.

The Process of Negotiations and Plea Bargaining

Below are the steps involved in negotiations and plea bargains:

Assessment of the Case

Before entering negotiations, the defense attorney conducts a comprehensive assessment of the case. This involves evaluating the strength of the prosecution's evidence, the potential defenses available, and the accused's prior criminal history, if any.

Communication with the Prosecution

Attorneys engage in discussions with the prosecution to explore the possibility of a plea agreement. These discussions revolve around determining the charges that the accused is willing to plead guilty to, the recommended sentence, and any potential concessions from both sides.

Crafting the Plea Agreement

Once a mutual understanding is reached, the defense attorney and the prosecution collaborate to craft a plea agreement. This agreement outlines the charges to which the accused will plead guilty, the recommended sentence, and any other terms or conditions.

Judicial Approval

The negotiated plea agreement is presented to the judge for approval. The judge evaluates the terms of the agreement to ensure that they are fair, reasonable, and per the law.

Strategies in Negotiations and Plea Bargaining

In solicitation cases, several defense strategies can influence the negotiations and plea bargaining process:

Reduced Charges

Negotiating for reduced charges, such as a lesser offense than the original solicitation charge, can result in a more favorable outcome for the accused.

Mitigating Sentences

Defense attorneys can negotiate for a reduced sentence or alternative sentencing options, such as probation or community service, instead of incarceration.

Information Exchange

Providing valuable information about other criminal activities or co-conspirators might be used as leverage during negotiations.

Related Offenses

Several offenses are often charged together with or alongside solicitation under California law. These offenses include:

Solicitation of a Minor (Penal Code 288.4)

Penal Code 288.4 addresses the crime of soliciting a minor for lewd acts. According to this statute, it is unlawful for any person to contact or communicate with a minor with the intent to engage in lewd or lascivious conduct. The offense involves direct communication, such as in-person meetings or electronic communication, with the intent to commit sexual acts or exploitation.

Elements of the Offense

To secure a conviction for solicitation of a minor under Penal Code 288.4, the prosecution must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

  • Age of the Victim — The victim must be a minor, typically defined as an individual under the age of 18 years.
  • Specific Intent — The accused must have the explicit intent to engage in lewd or lascivious conduct with the minor. The intent must be established through evidence, which can include explicit messages, communications, or actions.
  • Overt Act — The accused must take a substantial step towards committing the offense. This can involve arranging a meeting with the minor, sending explicit messages or images, or making explicit requests.

Legal Implications and Penalties

Solicitation of a minor under Penal Code 288.4 is considered a felony offense in California. The severity of the penalties depends on the specific circumstances of the case, the defendant's criminal history, and the court's discretion.

The penalties for solicitation of a minor can include:

  • Up to 3 years imprisonment in state prison.
  • Maximum fines of $10,000.
  • Sex Offender Registration.
  • The court may impose probation as an alternative to imprisonment. During probation, the defendant must adhere to specific conditions, such as attending counseling, maintaining distance from minors, and undergoing regular monitoring.

Solicitation of Prostitution (Penal Code 647(b))

Penal Code 647(b) addresses solicitation of prostitution. According to this statute, it is unlawful for any individual to solicit, agree to engage in, or engage in any sexual act in exchange for money or other consideration. This includes verbal solicitations, written messages, or online interactions seeking sexual services in return for compensation.

Elements of the Offense

To secure a conviction for solicitation of prostitution under Penal Code 647(b), the prosecution must establish the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

  • Agreement for Sexual Acts — The accused must have agreed to engage in sexual activities with another person.
  • Compensation — The agreement must involve the exchange of money, goods, or other forms of consideration for sexual acts.
  • Specific Intent — The accused must have the specific intent to engage in the act of prostitution or solicit someone else for such activities.

It is important to note that even if the sexual act is not carried out, the act of agreeing to engage in prostitution or soliciting such services is still considered a criminal offense under Penal Code 647(b).

Legal Consequences of Solicitation of Prostitution

Solicitation of prostitution under Penal Code 647(b) is charged as a misdemeanor offense in California. The legal consequences for those convicted may include:

  • Maximum fines of up to $1,000.
  • Up to 6 months detainment in county jail.
  • The court may impose probation as an alternative to incarceration. During probation, the defendant must adhere to specific conditions, such as attending counseling or completing community service.
  • Mandatory Counseling — In some cases, the court may order the defendant to attend counseling or educational programs related to sexual exploitation.

Online Enticement of a Minor (18 U.S. Code § 2422(b))

18 U.S. Code § 2422(b) addresses the crime of online enticement of a minor. This statute makes it illegal to knowingly use the internet or any communication device to persuade, induce, entice, or coerce a minor into engaging in unlawful sexual activity or to engage in any sexual activity for which the offender can be charged with a criminal offense.

Elements of the Offense

To secure a conviction for online enticement of a minor under 18 U.S. Code § 2422(b), the prosecution must establish the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

  • Age of the Victim — The victim must be a minor, typically defined as an individual under the age of 18 years.
  • Online Communication — The accused must use the internet, electronic communication devices, or any other form of online communication to initiate contact with the minor.
  • Specific Intent — The accused must have the specific intent to persuade, induce, entice, or coerce the minor into engaging in unlawful sexual activity or to engage in any sexual activity that constitutes a criminal offense.

It is important to note that under this statute, the accused does not need to physically meet the minor to be charged with the offense. Online communication alone is sufficient to establish the crime of online enticement of a minor.

Legal Consequences for Online Enticement of a Minor

Online enticement of a minor is a serious federal offense, and the legal consequences for those convicted can be severe. The penalties may include:

  • Detainment in state prison for more than 3 years.
  • Maximum fines of $10,000.
  • Sex Offender Registration — Those convicted of online enticement of a minor may be required to register as sex offenders. Sex offender registration involves providing personal information to law enforcement, which is then made publicly accessible to raise community awareness.
  • Probation and Supervised Release — The court may impose probation or supervised release as part of the offender's sentence. During probation or supervised release, the defendant must adhere to specific conditions set by the court.

Solicitation of Minors for Commercial Sexual Exploitation (California Human Trafficking Laws)

California's human trafficking laws target those who solicit minors for commercial sexual exploitation. This offense involves enticing or coercing minors into engaging in sexual activities in exchange for money or other forms of compensation.

Penalties for Solicitation of Minors for Commercial Sexual Exploitation

  • A conviction for human trafficking offenses can result in significant prison sentences, often ranging from 15 years to life, depending on the circumstances.
  • Offenders may also face fines of up to $10,000 and mandatory restitution to the victims.

Solicitation of Obscene Material from a Minor (Penal Code 288.2)

Soliciting or requesting obscene material from a minor, including explicit photos or videos, is a criminal offense in California under Penal Code 288.2. This law aims to protect minors from sexual exploitation and cyberbullying.

Penalties for Solicitation of Obscene Material from a Minor

A conviction can result in up to 3 years imprisonment, fines of up to $10,000, probation, and mandatory counseling or educational programs.

The Role of a Sex Crimes Attorney

Sex crime attorneys are legal experts who specialize in handling cases related to sexual offenses, including solicitation charges. Their multifaceted role extends beyond courtroom representation, encompassing a holistic approach to defense:

Legal Knowledge

Sex crime attorneys possess an in-depth understanding of the intricate web of laws surrounding sexual offenses. This encompasses an up-to-date knowledge of statutes, relevant legal precedents, and any recent legal developments.

Thorough Case Analysis

Upon taking on a case, an attorney conducts an exhaustive review of the evidence, circumstances, and any potential violations of rights. This meticulous analysis forms the foundation for building a robust defense strategy.

Tailored Defense Strategies

Each case is unique, necessitating a defense strategy tailored to its specific nuances. A skilled sex crimes attorney crafts an approach that may involve challenging evidence authenticity, contesting intent, or highlighting procedural irregularities.

Rights Preservation

Upholding the constitutional rights of the accused is a cornerstone of a sex crimes attorney's role. This includes ensuring that evidence is lawfully obtained and advocating against any violations of rights, such as illegal search and seizure.

Negotiation and Plea Bargaining

Not all cases proceed to trial. Attorneys negotiate with prosecutors to secure plea agreements that mitigate potential consequences for their clients. This process involves careful evaluation of the benefits and risks of a trial versus a plea deal.

Trial Advocacy

Should a trial become necessary, an attorney steps into the courtroom as a powerful advocate. They present a compelling defense, cross-examine witnesses, and scrutinize the prosecution's case to safeguard the accused's rights.

Find a Criminal Defense Attorney Near Me

Facing solicitation charges can be a challenging experience, but having a skilled attorney by your side can provide you with the guidance and support needed to navigate the legal process. Our California defense lawyers at Sex Crimes Attorney can help you understand your rights, build a strong defense, and work toward the best possible outcome for your case. Call us today at 888-666-8480.