Prostitution Attorney in Jacksonville
Your Defense Starts Here: Trusted Prostitution Defense Lawyer in Jacksonville
If you or someone you care about faces prostitution charges in Jacksonville, acting quickly can make a difference. We understand how stressful this situation feels. At Law Office of Russell B. McCormick, PA, our prostitution defense attorney guides you through every stage, ensuring you never navigate the justice system alone.
Our office stands steps from the Jacksonville courthouse and jail, offering real convenience and a sense of support when it matters most.
Every case in Jacksonville is unique, but we approach each client with patience and understanding. Many individuals worry about the long-term impact of prostitution charges, such as public criminal records. Our team explains every step in detail, answers your questions, and eases your anxiety with clear, realistic guidance.
Protect your reputation and your freedom. Call a trusted prostitution attorney in Jacksonville today for a free consultation. As former prosecutors offering 24/7 availability and bilingual attention, we provide the aggressive, affordable defense you need. Call us now at (904) 353-0436 or contact us online.
Understanding Prostitution Laws in Florida
In Florida, the legal framework for prostitution and related offenses is primarily found in Florida Statute §796.07, which criminalizes the entire spectrum of related conduct, including the offer, the act, and the solicitation.
The statute defines:
- Prostitution: The giving or receiving of the body for sexual activity for hire (excluding spouses).
- Solicitation (The Buyer/Patron): It is unlawful to solicit, induce, entice, or procure another to commit prostitution, lewdness, or assignation. This is the most common charge for an alleged patron and the one that carries the most severe, escalating mandatory penalties.
- Lewdness and Assignation: Lewdness means any indecent or obscene act, and assignation is the making of an appointment or engagement for prostitution or lewdness.
The vast majority of arrests in Jacksonville are for the offense of soliciting for prostitution, often resulting from sting operations conducted by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) in person or online. Successfully defending these cases requires an experienced prostitution attorney in Jacksonville who knows how to challenge the evidence derived from undercover tactics.
Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Prostitution Convictions in Florida
A conviction for prostitution or solicitation in Florida carries direct penalties that escalate quickly and lasting collateral consequences under §796.07 of the Florida Statutes.
Penalties depend on the number of prior convictions and the nature of the offense:
- First Offense
- Charge: First-Degree Misdemeanor
- Jail Time: Up to 1 year
- Fine: Up to $1,000
- Additional Penalties:
- 100 hours of community service
- Completion of a mandatory educational program
- $5,000 civil penalty
- Second Offense
- Charge: Third-Degree Felony
- Jail Time: Up to 5 years
- Fine: Up to $5,000
- Additional Penalties:
- 10-day mandatory minimum jail sentence
- All first-offense penalties also apply
- Third or Subsequent Offense
- Charge: Second-Degree Felony
- Jail Time: Up to 15 years
- Fine: Up to $10,000
- Additional Penalties:
- 10-day mandatory minimum jail sentence
- All first-offense penalties also apply
Collateral Consequences and Social Stigma
The impact of a prostitution conviction far exceeds the sentence imposed by a Duval County judge:
- Public Database Registration: Anyone found guilty of solicitation is required to have their criminal history record included in the state's Soliciting for Prostitution Public Database, essentially making the conviction a matter of public record, viewable by employers, landlords, and others.
- Driver's License Suspension: If a vehicle was used in the commission of the offense, Florida Statute §322.26(7) mandates the suspension or revocation of your driver's license for up to one year.
- Professional Licensing: Convictions can lead to the denial, suspension, or revocation of professional licenses (e.g., medical, law, finance, teaching).
- Immigration Status: For non-citizens, prostitution and solicitation convictions can result in inadmissibility or deportation.
- Employment and Housing: A public criminal record, especially one related to a sex offense, creates significant hurdles for employment and housing applications.
Five-Star Reviews See What our Clients Have to Say
Russell B. McCormick Focuses on You, and It Shows in Our Reviews
Read through some of our recent five-star client testimonials below, or call (904) 353-0436 get started with our attorney today.
-
"Russell B. McCormick was very direct and upfront about everything, laying out all the options available to me."A friend who went through a similar situation recommended me this Law Office. I was a bit nervous about talking to a lawyer since it was my first time having to need one. Russell B. McCormick was very direct and upfront about everything, laying out all the options available to me. He was also quite accommodating with my work schedule and kept me up to date with anything that came up or that I needed to do. I’m so grateful he was able to reduce my charge, with the eligibility of getting it sealed later on.- Kevin
-
"Russell is Amazing!"Russell is Amazing! He handled my son’s case with such professionalism all while having a very calm demeanor. His hard work granted the best results for my son, and we are more than pleased. And I can’t leave out Dorothy! It was a pleasure speaking with her when calling the office Every Time.She was always sweet and made sure to answer any concerns that we had.. Overall I give Russell and his team a A+.. I highly recommend..- Meka B.
-
"They were knowledgeable and straight to the point"This firm was well worth it , they were knowledgeable and straight to the point and actually got the job done . Also they respond back to you in a timely manner . I am very appreciative for their service. Now I can move forward in life . Thanks- Deven R.
-
"Highly recommend Russell McCormick."Highly recommend Russell McCormick. Upon calling he immediately went to work on my case. He clearly communicated the process and walked me through any questions I had. He was also able to get my sentencing talked down and made the process as painless as it could be. I am so glad he was referred to me!- Rachel B.
-
"Russell cares and he knows the system. the outcome of my case far surpassed my expectations."Russell was great! this is the second time I have used him and i have to say, I'm impressed. Russell cares and he knows the system. the outcome of my case far surpassed my expectations. I would recommend Russell McCormick to anyone needing legal counsel. After finding Russell, I will never use anyone else for my legal needs!- Luke F.
-
Called the McCormick office in trouble, with my freedom on the line. Russell answered the phone himself and confirmed he took on my type of cases. He took my information down and we scheduled a consultation. When I arrived for my consultation, he already had the information about my case,and a plan to come to my defense, already in tow! That made me confident in hiring Russell. However, my case had gotten thrown out (unbeknownst to me) and even though I paid the retainers fee, he sent me a refund.In reality he could have kept it. That right there is why he'll forever be my go to attorney if I needed one. Ready to defend and honest when need be. I appreciate him and Ms Dorothy and highly recommend. Thanks again!- Jones
-
"Worth Every Penny!"I cannot say thank you enough to Mr. McCormick and his team. Everyone was amazingly nice and professional and I always got a response in a timely manner. He was worth every penny so I didn’t have to face the court alone.- Amber H.
-
"Much Love and Respect for This Man"
Russell is by far the best defense attorney in Jax. He did an amazing job with my case. Has the respect of the state's attorneys and the judges as well, which if you know how the law works is important for your defense.
- Eric G.
Our Comprehensive Approach to Prostitution Defense
We develop a defense strategy designed to exploit the specific weaknesses inherent in sting operations and the State’s burden of proof.
- Entrapment: This is a key defense for a prostitution attorney in Jacksonville. We argue that the police induced you to commit a crime you were not otherwise predisposed to commit. If the undercover officer crossed the line from providing an opportunity to pressuring, coercing, or luring you, the defense of entrapment may apply.
- Lack of Culpable Intent: We challenge the State's ability to prove an explicit agreement for sex in exchange for money. Often, vague or ambiguous language in text messages or conversations is misinterpreted as an offer. We argue that the evidence shows an incomplete negotiation or a lack of the requisite criminal intent.
- Constitutional Violations (Miranda): We examine the moment of the arrest. If the JSO failed to properly inform you of your Miranda rights before questioning, we move to suppress your statements, which often form the entire basis of the State's case.
- Challenging the Arrestee’s Identity: In internet stings, we challenge whether the State can definitively prove that the person who communicated online was the person who showed up for the meeting.
Our firm focuses on achieving either a dismissal or a resolution that avoids the finding of guilt and the imposition of the $5,000 civil penalty and the public database listing.
Why Clients Choose Our Prostitution Defense Attorneys
Attorney McCormick brings a significant advantage from his background as a former prosecutor. This experience provides insight into how the prosecution builds its case in Jacksonville prostitution matters, which lets us review every detail and develop thorough, effective defense strategies.
We look beyond the charges, providing clear, direct advice and committed support as you move through the process. We maintain responsive communication, flexible appointments, and personal attention from your first consultation until your matter is resolved.
- Direct involvement from an attorney with prosecution experience—Strategic planning informed by past work on both sides of criminal trials.
- 24/7 availability—We respond around the clock to urgent legal needs.
- Flexible meeting options—Off-site, evening, and weekend appointments available for your convenience.
- Accessible services—Free consultations and tailored payment plans that remove barriers to quality legal counsel.
- Central location—Our office is near the courthouse and jail, simplifying in-person appointments.
Our prostitution defense lawyers in Jacksonville help individuals from all walks of life, whether facing first-time allegations or returning to court for a repeat offense. We respect every client’s unique story, ensuring strict confidentiality and a defense tailored to your specific needs.
Our team prioritizes trust and convenience, offering late-night or weekend meetings when required. We adapt to your schedule and strive to make every part of the legal process feel manageable and straightforward.
Take the First Step Toward Peace of Mind
If you have been accused of prostitution in Jacksonville, you do not have to face the legal system alone. Our approachable team listens to your story and helps you understand your legal options. By reaching out now, you gain clarity, support, and direct access to Attorney McCormick’s background as a former prosecutor.
Call (904) 353-0436 to schedule your free consultation. We offer flexible meeting times and payment plans so defense services stay accessible—because everyone deserves a strong advocate, no matter the hour.
