Why choose us?
Our firm has been in business since 1992 and has represented hundreds of people charged with patronizing a prostitute in courts all throughout Washington. Given the nature of the charge of patronizing a prostitute and the possible consequences if convicted, it is important to select an experienced law firm such as ours. We have a proven track record of getting cases dismissed, charges reduced, and ultimately winning at trial if it gets to that point. Our attorneys are some of the most experienced trial attorneys in Washington.
Sometimes the goal isn’t to “beat” a charge but to mitigate the consequences. We can help and try to negotiate outcomes that result in no criminal convictions and protect your criminal record for employment and immigration purposes.
Undercover Police Operation?
Undercover prostitution operations are commonly used by police in our area to target demand and combat sex-trafficking. Stewart MacNichols Harmell Inc. P.S. criminal defense attorneys are experienced at analyzing undercover police stings and challenging them in court if they can.
What is Patronizing a Prostitute?
RCW 9A.88.110
Patronizing a prostitute.
(1) A person is guilty of patronizing a prostitute if:
(a) Pursuant to a prior understanding, he or she pays a fee to another person as compensation for such person or a third person having engaged in sexual conduct with him or her; or
(b) He or she pays or agrees to pay a fee to another person pursuant to an understanding that in return therefor such person will engage in sexual conduct with him or her; or
(c) He or she solicits or requests another person to engage in sexual conduct with him or her in return for a fee.
(2) The crime of patronizing a prostitute may be committed in more than one location. The crime is deemed to have been committed in any location in which the defendant commits any act under subsection (1)(a), (b), or (c) of this section that constitutes part of the crime. A person who sends a communication to patronize a prostitute is considered to have committed the crime both at the place from which the contact was made pursuant to subsection (1)(a), (b), or (c) of this section and where the communication is received, provided that this section must be construed to prohibit anyone from being prosecuted twice for substantially the same crime.
(3) For purposes of this section, "sexual conduct" has the meaning given in RCW 9A.88.030.
(4) Patronizing a prostitute is a misdemeanor.
What are the Possible Penalties?
Patronizing a Prostitute is a misdemeanor so the maximum penalty is 90 days in jail and up to a $1000 fine plus costs, fees, and assessments. In addition to possible jail and fines, there are mandatory penalties if you are convicted of patronizing, for example, you must complete an educational program and pay an assessment of $1500.
A Patronizing a Prostitute conviction can carry severe immigration consequences that result can result in deportation, denial of admission to the U.S., or denial of naturalization. Our attorneys work with immigration defense attorney experts on each case to ensure our clients’ receive the best level of representation.
Free Consultation
We always offer a free consultation for prospective clients. There is no obligation to hire our firm after the free consultation. At our first meeting, we will discuss the specifics of your case and answer any questions you may have.