Sex Trafficking & Prostitution Charges in Brooklyn

Defending Against Sex Trafficking and Prostitution Charges in Brooklyn

Being charged with a sex crime in Brooklyn can be an incredibly frightening and stressful experience. However, with an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side, you can better understand the charges against you and build the strongest possible legal defense. This article provides an overview of common sex trafficking and prostitution charges in Brooklyn, potential defenses, and the value of working with a skilled local defense lawyer.

Sex Trafficking Charges

Sex trafficking refers to coercing or forcing someone into performing commercial sex acts against their will. Under New York law, someone commits sex trafficking by intentionally advancing or profiting from prostitution through various means, including:

• Providing drugs to impair a victim
• Confiscating identification documents
• Using force or threats against a victim or their family
• Creating debt bondage

Sex trafficking charges can lead to very serious penalties in New York, including up to 25 years in prison. These cases often involve vulnerable victims who are reluctant to work with prosecutors. Building an effective legal defense requires a thorough investigation into the specific allegations and development of evidence to contradict the charges.

Promoting and Patronizing Prostitution

New York law also allows charges against individuals who promote or patronize prostitution.

• Promoting prostitution involves knowingly advancing or profiting from prostitution activity. This can include charges against pimps, brothel owners, escort agencies, or website operators.
• Patronizing a prostitute involves hiring or attempting to hire someone to engage in sexual activity in exchange for a fee. Police often use sting operations and undercover officers to arrest buyers of prostitution.

Penalties for these prostitution offenses may include up to 7 years in prison. However, experienced lawyers can often get charges reduced or even dismissed through effective defense strategies.

Common Legal Defenses

Skilled criminal defense attorneys have successfully defended against sex trafficking and prostitution charges using arguments like:

• You lacked criminal intent: You did not knowingly participate or assist with any illegal prostitution activities. This is common when charges involve websites, social media, or other platforms where third-party users generated content.
• There was entrapment: Law enforcement used coercive tactics to push you into committing a crime you otherwise would not have. This may apply to patronizing prostitution stings.
• There was consent: When charges involve promoting prostitution, you may argue all parties involved were consenting adults without any force, threats, or coercion.
• Violation of search and seizure laws: Evidence against you was obtained illegally in violation of your Constitutional rights. If a judge agrees, that evidence may be suppressed.

An attorney can also negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or pre-trial diversion programs in appropriate cases.

Finding the Right Lawyer for Your Defense

Facing sex crime charges in Brooklyn can feel overwhelming. However, the legal advocacy of an experienced local attorney can help ensure your rights are protected. Look for a Brooklyn criminal lawyer with specific experience successfully defending sex trafficking, promoting prostitution, and patronizing prostitution charges.

When researching attorneys, consider credentials like:

• 10+ years handling sex crime cases in Brooklyn
• Past experience as a Brooklyn prosecutor
• Strong relationships with court officials and prosecutors
• History of positive case results, including dismissed charges and acquittals after trial

The right lawyer will handle your case with discretion, aggressively challenge allegations, and keep you fully informed at every stage. This provides the strongest defense against life-changing convictions.

Trusted Brooklyn sex crimes defense lawyers like Law Offices of Example 1 and Example 2 Defense have proven records of success. Contact them for honest case assessments and strategic legal guidance.

The costs of legal representation are also critical to consider. Top attorneys often provide free case evaluations and flexible payment plans to ease this burden for clients.

What to Do If You Are Facing Charges

If you were recently arrested for sex trafficking, promoting prostitution, patronizing a prostitute, or any other sex crime in Brooklyn, smart next steps include:

• Remain silent – Do not make statements to police without your lawyer.
• Hire an attorney – An experienced sex crimes lawyer can start building your customized defense strategy right away.
• Follow pretrial release conditions – Avoid new arrests and attend all court dates to show cooperation.
• Seek counseling – Seeing a therapist demonstrates commitment to rehabilitation if relevant.
• Reputation management – Your lawyer can help minimize public exposure from charges.

This challenging time does not need to define your future. An established local lawyer has the skills and experience to protect your rights in Brooklyn sex crime cases. Contact a firm like Law Offices of Example 1 or Example 2 Defense to schedule a free consultation and get expert legal advice on your best options moving forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common penalties for sex trafficking and prostitution charges in Brooklyn?

Sex trafficking convictions can lead to up to 25 years in NY state prison. Promoting prostitution carries maximum 7 year sentences per charge. Patronizing a prostitute can potentially mean up to 1 year in jail. Actual sentencing depends on specifics of each case and prior records.

What options are available besides jail time?

Experienced lawyers may negotiate reduced charges, alternate rehabilitation programs, or even complete dismissals. Diversion programs provide counseling and education for those with no criminal history. Certain charges allow conditional discharge sentences with no incarceration.

Can charges impact child custody or immigration status?

Absolutely. Any prostitution-related conviction creates a permanent criminal record and can negatively impact future custody rights, immigration application results, professional licensing, and more. Avoiding conviction is critical.

What evidence can help defend against charges?

Attorneys pursue every avenue, including financial records, phone and digital forensics, background checks on key witnesses, and more. When constitutional rights were violated, convincing a judge to suppress evidence may lead to dismissals.

Is there a way to avoid appearing on public arrest databases?

Yes. In cases that qualify, attorneys can sometimes negotiate getting your charges permanently sealed under NY Criminal Procedure Law § 160.50. This complex process requires an experienced local lawyer.

Let an established Brooklyn sex crimes attorney protect your rights. Contact the Law Offices of Example 1 or Example 2 Defense for experienced legal representation.

Resources

Brooklyn Criminal Courthouse

New York Consolidated Laws on Sex Trafficking and Prostitution

Video: Brooklyn Sex Crime Defense Lawyers Discuss Common Charges

New York Sex Crime Defense Blog from Example 1 Law

Example 2 Defense Reviews from Former Clients

Overview of New York Diversion Programs from CUNY Law