If you’re like many people charged with a sex-related crime, the first thing you think of is getting a sex crime defense lawyer – and that’s smart. Sex crimes come with serious penalties, including prison time and huge fines, so you most likely want a lawyer in your corner to protect your rights.
So do you need an attorney for misdemeanor prostitution charges in Chicago?
Here’s what you need to know.
Do You Need an Attorney for Misdemeanor Prostitution in Chicago?
Prostitution isn’t always a misdemeanor. Sometimes it’s a felony (more on that below).
Illinois law says:
“Any person who knowingly performs, offers or agrees to perform any act of sexual penetration … for anything of value, or any touching or fondling of the sex organs of one person by another person, for anything of value, for the purpose of sexual arousal or gratification commits an act of prostitution.”
The key there is “anything of value.” That means it doesn’t have to be money – that phrase could refer to drugs, a vehicle or anything else.
What Are the Penalties for Misdemeanor Prostitution in Chicago?
If the court convicts you of misdemeanor prostitution in Chicago or the suburbs, you’re facing up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
Sometimes, though, the penalties are even tougher.
Related: Prostitution charges in Cook County
When Prostitution is a Felony Charge
If you’re found guilty of committing an act of prostitution within 1,000 feet of a school, or if you’ve been convicted of prostitution in the past, you could be looking at a Class 4 felony.
People convicted of Class 4 felonies can go to prison for between 1 and 3 years, and the court can order them to pay extremely high fines.
Related: Felonies in Chicago
Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney About Misdemeanor Prostitution Charges in Chicago?
If you’ve been charged with prostitution – whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony – we can help you. We offer a completely judgment-free zone where you can tell us what happened so we can protect your rights and get you the best possible outcome.
Call us at 847-920-4540 right now or fill out the form below. We’ve defended people from all walks of life, and we can defend you, too.
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