Little Rock Sexual Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer

Little Rock Sexual Solicitation of a Minor Attorney

Being charged with sexual solicitation of a child in Little Rock is a high-level legal offense. A Little Rock sexual solicitation of a minor lawyer at Lemley Law Partners can defend you. We know these kinds of cases are especially sensitive and complicated. These accusations can wreak havoc on your personal and professional life.

Our firm can provide you with the strongest possible defense of these serious charges. We are experienced in these cases, so we can work to advise and defend you throughout yours. That way, you can approach the legal process with confidence and tact.

What Is Sexual Solicitation of a Minor?

In Arkansas, sexual solicitation of a minor is defined under Arkansas Code § 5-70-107.

This crime occurs when someone knows or should reasonably know that the person they are soliciting is a minor and does one of the following:

• Asks for, agrees to pay a fee, or arranges to give a valuable object to a minor to have sex
• Gives or agrees to pay money or offer a valuable object to another person in exchange for sex with a minor
• Requests, offers, or is willing to pay someone a fee or some valuable object in return for that person having sex with a minor
• Pays a fee or valuable item to a minor or another person to facilitate sexual activity with the minor

You should note that the “consent” of a minor is not at all a valid defense against this crime. However, if the accused genuinely thought that the minor was 18 years of age or older, this can be a positive defense.

Sexual solicitation of a minor is a Class B crime, and you can be punished severely if found guilty. Arkansas defines sexual solicitation itself as an offer or acceptance of a fee for sexual activity, regardless of age. This is an unclassified misdemeanor crime and comes with varying punishments, depending on the number of crimes committed. It’s important to know these differences because when the offense involves a minor, the offense becomes more serious and severe.

Penalties for Sexual Solicitation of a Minor in Arkansas

Sexual solicitation of a child is a serious offense in Arkansas, and it carries harsh penalties if convicted. This is a Class B felony, punishable by years in prison, hefty fines, and sex offender registration. Registration as a sexual offender places severe limitations on everything from employment to housing to liberty.

Moreover, a criminal record for a sexual crime against a minor will negatively affect your credibility and employment prospects. With these penalties being so severe, it is important to work with an experienced attorney to handle these charges, defend yourself, and investigate whether the charges can be dismissed or reduced.

The Importance of a Strong Defense Against Solicitation Charges

Defending the case could include denying the facts, appointing credible witnesses, or arguing that the defendant had no knowledge of the minor’s age. In some cases, online chats or texts are unreliable or misleading, so they should be reviewed by an experienced lawyer for your benefit.

You can use this as a positive defense if you had reasonable grounds to believe the child was 18 or older. A skilled attorney can modify their approach to fit your case, working to achieve an optimal result.

FAQs

Q: What Constitutes Sexual Solicitation of a Minor in Arkansas?

A: In Little Rock, Arkansas, sexual solicitation of a juvenile involves intentionally offering or agreeing to pay a fee or provide something of value in exchange for sexual behavior. It also covers situations in which someone pays or agrees to pay another person to arrange sexual conduct with a minor or accepts payment for allowing such an action.

Q: Can a Sexual Solicitation Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed?

A: Yes, a sexual solicitation charge can be reduced or dismissed. Depending on the case, a good lawyer might bargain down the charges or even get them dismissed. Possible defenses include intent, entrapment, or lack of evidence. An experienced Little Rock sexual solicitation of a minor lawyer can review your case, find the right defense, and reduce or deny the charges as much as possible.

Q: What Are the Penalties for Sexual Solicitation of a Minor in Arkansas?

A: The penalties for sexual solicitation of a child in Arkansas are steep: prison time, heavy fines, and the potential for registration as a sex offender. This conviction can have an impact on housing, work, and interpersonal relationships. With so much at stake, engaging an experienced attorney is critical for navigating the legal process and developing a case that may decrease or eliminate these penalties.

Q: How Does Online Communication Factor Into Sexual Solicitation Charges?

A: Communication via the internet is often at the heart of sexual solicitation prosecutions. Texts, chat records, and emails can be used as evidence. Such communications could be used by the police to express intention, despite the absence of a meeting. Digital evidence, however, can be complex and sometimes unreliable. A skilled lawyer can review digital evidence to check whether there are any misrepresentations or errors that might undermine the prosecution’s case.

Q: Why Is It Important to Have a Lawyer for a Sexual Solicitation Charge?

A: The consequences of a sexual solicitation charge can last a lifetime, both personally and professionally. An experienced attorney can be invaluable, as they can defend your rights during the investigation while developing a defense. They can make a deal with prosecutors, argue against evidence, and fight for your freedom. A qualified attorney can make sure you know what you are entitled to and that you have a fair shot at justice.

Contact a Little Rock Sexual Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer

A sexual solicitation of a minor charge can ruin your life, incurring heavy penalties and permanent stigmatization. Lemley Law Partners offers you guidance, assistance, and experienced legal representation during this trying time.

Our team of professionals is dedicated to enforcing your rights and seeking a favorable result. Contact us now for a consultation, and take back control of your future with an advocate on your side.