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Arizona law, pursuant to Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-3214, makes it unlawful to knowingly engage in prostitution. But what does prostitution mean?
Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-3211 defines “Prostitution” as engaging in, or agreeing or offering to engage in sexual conduct under a fee arrangement with any other person for money or any other valuable consideration. It defines sexual conduct as sexual contact, which is direct or indirect fondling or manipulating of any part of the genitals, anus, or female breast; sexual intercourse; oral sexual contact; or sadomasochistic abuse. Valuable consideration can mean many things, but in the realm of prostitution crimes the typical consideration seen is money, drugs, or other favors like housing and rides. The Phoenix prostitution crimes attorneys at AZ Defenders can help you identify the nature of these types of crimes. Our Phoenix criminal defense lawyers have the experience necessary to help you get the best possible result out of your case.
Though prostitution is not considered a sex crime, these charges are taken very seriously in the state of Arizona. Prostitution is typically a Class 1 Misdemeanor. A Class 1 Misdemeanor carries a maximum punishment of 6 months in jail, $2,500 in fines, and up to 3 years of probation. Prostitution is different, however, in that it has mandatory minimum sentences.
A conviction for Prostitution that is a first violation requires no less than 15 days in jail.
A second conviction for Prostitution requires no less than 30 days in jail.
A third conviction for Prostitution requires no less than 60 days in jail and a court ordered education or treatment program.
If you have previously been convicted of Prostitution three times and are convicted again, Prostitution becomes a Class 5 Felony. A Class 5 Felony is punishable by half a year to 2.5 years in prison, up to 3 years of probation, and a fine of up to $150,000 plus surcharges. A felony conviction carries additional consequences, including the loss of civil rights and the right to bear arms.
Don’t face the harmful consequences of Prostitution crime case alone. The Phoenix prostitution crimes attorneys at AZ Defenders have helped thousands of clients throughout Arizona obtain the best possible result in their case. Call today at 480-456-6400 or contact us for a free consultation so we can find out how we can help you.