If you’re facing prostitution or pandering charges in Decatur, The Freedom Lawyers are here to help. These charges can have serious, lasting consequences, impacting both your personal and professional life. Georgia’s strict laws on prostitution and pandering demand an experienced and skilled defense team to navigate the complexities of the legal system. Further, with Decatur’s proximity to downtown and the nightlife Decatur is known for, Prostitution stings are common. That is why The Freedom Lawyers are committed to defending your rights, leveraging our deep understanding of Georgia law to fight for the best possible outcome in your Decatur Prostitution case or Your Decatur Pandering case. Contact us now for a free consultation. (Link to Decatur form)
Understanding Prostitution and Pandering Charges in Georgia
In Georgia, prostitution and pandering are different charges, with different consequences. Both charges are taken very seriously. Here’s a breakdown of what each of these charges involves:
- Prostitution: Engaging in or offering to engage in sexual acts in exchange for money or goods. In Georgia, both the person engaging in the act and the person soliciting it can face charges. O.C.G.A. 16-6-9 (Linked to https://law.justia.com/codes/georgia/title-16/chapter-6/section-16-6-9/)
- Pandering: This charge involves someone arranging, soliciting, or encouraging another person to engage in prostitution. A person can be charged with pandering even if the act of prostitution never takes place. O.C.G.A. 16-6-12 (Linked to https://law.justia.com/codes/georgia/title-16/chapter-6/section-16-6-12/)
Both charges carry significant penalties in Georgia, and multiple offenses or certain aggravating factors can elevate Pandering from a misdemeanor to a felony. A conviction can lead to heavy fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. The records of the arrest are also published, and it is very difficult in Georgia to get the booking photos removed for Pandering or Prostitution charges. Thus, these charges can have long-term consequences, so it’s critical to work with a defense team that understands the demographics of Decatur and the surrounding areas, as well as specialists in the specific laws in Georgia.
Penalties for Prostitution and Pandering in Decatur, GA
Prostitution is a misdemeanor and Pandering charges start as misdemeanors. However, multiple offenses, or if the offense occurs near specific locations, can elevate the charges to a felony. Here’s an overview of potential penalties:
- Fines: Fines for misdemeanor prostitution and pandering convictions can be substantial, reaching up to $2,500. For felony charges, fines increase significantly.
- Jail Time: Misdemeanor charges may result in jail time of up to 12 months. Pandering requires at least 72 hours in jail. O.C.G.A. 16-6-13(a)(4)(linked to https://law.justia.com/codes/georgia/title-16/chapter-6/section-16-6-13/) For felony convictions, sentences can be much longer, with a mandatory year to serve in prison. O.C.G.A. 16-6-13(a)(4)(B)(Linked to https://law.justia.com/codes/georgia/title-16/chapter-6/section-16-6-13/)
- Criminal Record: A conviction for prostitution or pandering can result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment opportunities, housing, and professional licensing.
- Additional Penalties: When these crimes occur near schools, places of worship, or parks, Georgia law treats them as aggravated offenses. This means harsher penalties, including mandatory education programs and possible registration as a sex offender.
Because the consequences are so serious, it’s vital to work with a Decatur Prostitution and Pandering defense team that knows the law and has experience fighting these charges. We know Decatur, we know the Police, and we know the Prosecutors. Decatur is our home and we are here to help you.
How The Freedom Lawyers Defend Prostitution and Pandering Charges
At The Freedom Lawyers, we provide a strategic, tailored defense for each client facing prostitution and pandering charges in Decatur. Our defense approach includes:
Conducting a Detailed Investigation
Our attorneys begin by thoroughly investigating every detail of your case. We examine all evidence, interview witnesses, and review police reports to identify any inconsistencies or procedural errors. Our attorneys know how to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and we use this information to strengthen your defense. We go to the scene or hotel, visit the websites, and do everything we can to show how the police broke the rules.
Challenging Law Enforcement Conduct
Our team closely reviews how law enforcement handled your arrest. If police procedures were not followed correctly or if your rights were violated, we work to have that evidence dismissed from the case. Unlawful police conduct can weaken the prosecution’s case, which may lead to reduced charges or a complete dismissal. In Decatur, unfortunately, police often make mistakes.
Strategic Defense in Court
As experienced defense attorneys, we know the tactics used by the prosecution in prostitution and pandering cases. We are courtroom specialists. With our background in criminal defense, we anticipate their strategies and effectively counter their arguments. Our attorneys are skilled at cross-examining witnesses and challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution, ensuring that your rights are protected. Dekalb County has a huge court system with many judges and prosecutors. We have connections in the community that run deep as former prosecutors, and we use that experience in Decatur Courts to our clients advantage.
Negotiating for Reduced Charges
In cases where negotiation may lead to a favorable outcome, we work hard to reduce the charges or seek alternative sentencing. We strive to minimize the impact of these charges on your life by negotiating for reduced penalties, keeping your future in mind every step of the way. Our job is to have your back and do everything we can to make this impact you in the minimum way possible.
Why Choose The Freedom Lawyers for Prostitution and Pandering Defense in Decatur?
When facing serious charges, you need a dedicated defense team with the experience to protect your rights. Here’s why The Freedom Lawyers are the right choice to defend you against Prostitution charges in Decatur or Pandering charges in Decatur:
Deep Knowledge of Criminal Defense Law
Our team has extensive experience handling prostitution and pandering cases in Decatur and throughout Georgia. We understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to building the best defense possible for our clients. Some of our attorneys are former sex-crime prosecutors. We know what the State needs to prove their case. Let us use our knowledge to your advantage. Schedule a Free Consultation with one of our Attorneys.