An arrest pertaining prostitution charges in Maine can be a scary and confusing experience, which can ultimately have serious impacts on your future, including fines and maybe even jail time in some cases.  If you have been accused of a crime pertaining to prostitution charges, it is import to quickly determine your defense strategy.

Let’s take a moment to review what an accused should expect and what the accused can do to help in their defense.

1. Types of Prostitution Charges in Maine
2. Defense Approaches to Prostitution Charges
3. How a Sex Crimes Lawyer can help.

Types of Prostitution Charges in Maine

Under Maine Law, Title 17-A Chapter 35, prostitution is mainly a misdemeanor crime.  Only the charge of Aggravated Promotion of Prostitution is considered a felony in Maine.

Promotion of Prostitution

Promotion of Prostitution is the promotion of sexual contact in exchange for money or other benefit.  Promotion of prostitution is a class D misdemeanor.  However, if the prostitution is with a person under the age of 18, or if the prostitution is compelled by taking advantage of a person’s addiction to alcohol or drugs, the charge is aggravated to a class B felony.  Promotion of Prostitution is charged if the prosecutor or District Attorney has evidence against accused indicating:

1. The accused assisted or caused to commit or engage in prostitution, other than as the client
2. The accused publicly solicited clients for prostitution
3. The accused provided an individual to serve for purposes of prostitution
4. The defendant leased a space or owned a spaced with the purpose to be regularly used for prostitution.
5. The accused owned, controlled, or otherwise operated, by themselves or  in association with others, a house of prostitution or a prostitution business
6. The defendant transported a person into or within the State with the intent that such other person engage in prostitution
7. The accused accepted or agreed to receive a pecuniary benefit pursuant to an agreement with any person, other than with a patron, whereby the person participates or the person is to participate in the proceeds of prostitution.

Engaging in Prostitution

Sex workers, hired escorts, or prostitutes can be charged with Engaging in Prostitution. Engaging in Prostitution is a class E misdemeanor. Repeat offenses can aggravate the charge to a Class D crime.

Engaging a Prostitute

People are accused of Engaging a Prostitute if the prosecution or District Attorney believes they were a part of a prostitute’s clientele.  A person seeking the services of a sex worker, hired escort, or prostitute can be charged with Engaging a Prostitute. Engaging a Prostitute is a class E misdemeanor. Repeated offenses can aggravate the charge to a class D crime.  This law is constructed so that simply agreeing to pay for sex can bring forth a violation of this law.

Indecent conduct

Indecent conduct includes public sex acts, or the exposure of genitals in a way that is likely to offend or alarm others.  Indecent conduct is a class E misdemeanor.  Repeat offenses can aggravate the charge to a class D crime.

Defense Approach to Prostitution Charges in Maine

In any prostitution or solicitation case, the prosecution or District Attorney must to prove your guilt without a reasonable doubt.  They must present clear and detailed evidence that you attempted to solicit the services of or engaged in prostitution.  A criminal defense attorney will review every piece of evidence to assure it is valid and legally able to be presented.  Any inconsistencies in evidence or conflicting witness statements can be used in negotiations with the District Attorney to potentially reduce or dismiss the charges.  Also, a criminal defense attorney will examine the police investigation before, during, and after your arrest to identify any infringements on your Constitutional rights. Prostitution charges in Maine are not to be taken lightly.

How a Sex Crimes Lawyer can help

The negative public stigma related to prostitution charges in Maine may make it challenging for you to move forward with a public trial in Maine.  With the State’s attorney building a case against you, preparing your defense is necessary.  The sooner a sex crimes lawyer becomes involved in your case, the sooner he can begin helping you plan your defense, and the better your chances are of achieving the best possible outcome.  The reality in these cases is that the best evidence for the State often comes when the accused admits to the crime.  If you are approached by police looking to “just ask a few questions,” it is to your advantage to use your right to remain silent.  The most important thing a defendant can do is to hire a lawyer as early as possible.

Contact Criminal Defense Attorney Chris Nielsen

Chris Nielsen is a results-oriented Maine criminal defense attorney who has defended the rights of his clients in the Portland area for over ten years.  A conviction for Prostitution Charges in Maine can carry very long lasting and significant negative stigma.  Please call the Nielsen Group for your free consultation today.  We will answer your questions and put your mind at ease.