Solicitation and Pandering

Solicitation and Pandering?

Solicitation and Pandering are interchangeable terms for illegally seeking sexual interactions (solicitation of prostitution) for some form of direct compensation.

In Georgia, a charge of Solicitation refers to the act of inducing, encouraging, or promoting the prostitution of another person. This can include activities such as recruiting, transporting, or harboring individuals for the purpose of prostitution, as well as offering or agreeing to pay for sexual services.

In Georgia, as in other states, prostitution is generally defined as the exchange of sexual services for money or other compensation. Both the person offering the sexual services and the person paying for them can be charged with prostitution-related offenses.

What is Pandering?

Georgia Code O.C.G.A. § 16-6-12 specifically addresses the offense of Pandering (Soliciting Sex). A person commits the offense of pandering when he or she solicits a person to perform an act of prostitution in his or her own behalf or in behalf of a third person or when he or she knowingly assembles persons at a fixed place for the purpose of being solicited by others to perform an act of prostitution.

What is Pandering by Compulsion?

Georgia Code O.C.G.A. § 16-6-14 specifically addresses the offense of Pandering by Compulsion. The following is the actual law for the offense of Pandering by Compulsion as it is written.

A person commits the offense of pandering by compulsion when he or she by duress or coercion causes a person to perform an act of prostitution and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than ten years.

Defense Strategies for Solicitation and Pandering

Common defense strategies are built around: challenging the prosecutor to prove criminal intent including wording used in conversation (common in sting operations). Arguing a case of mistaken identity is another common defense.

Solicitation and Pandering Punishments

Solicitation is classified as a misdemeanor. Potential consequences are up to one year in jail a $1,000 fine. If a minor (under age of 18) is involved, pandering is classified as a felony and can result in up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Solicitation of a Minor: A conviction for solicitation of a minor can bring a fine up to $25,000 and up to 20 years in prison. If the minor was at least 14, and the accused was 18 or under, the accused will be prosecuted as having committed a misdemeanor.

Georgia Law: O.C.G.A. § 16-6-12

Click the following link to see the full law for Solicitation and Pandering in Georgia. The circumstances of your situation may allow your lawyer to fight for dismissal or changing the charge to a lesser offense. Always keep in mind, an arrest is not a conviction.

How to Choose the Best Solicitation and Pandering Lawyer in Georgia

The best lawyer for fighting solicitation or pandering charges is one who has: a good working relationship with local prosecutors, experience with defense strategies for this offense. Additionally, you want to hire a lawyer who can negotiate for your case to be dropped, have charges reduced, or represent you in a jury trial.

Contact a Solicitation Lawyer

If you are being investigated for, or charged with, solicitation or pandering we recommend calling our law firm as soon as possible. We understand the urgency of the matter, and respond quickly to all calls and online inquiries to hire a criminal defense lawyer. To get control of your situation CALL 678-880-9360 for an appointment with a solicitation and pandering defense attorney.