Sex crimes such as pandering are taken very seriously in Georgia. If convicted, you face extremely harsh legal consequences and potential long-term ramifications for your future. While the punishments for a pandering conviction will depend on the circumstances of the case, they could include jail time, fines, and probation. There is also a stigma associated with any sex crime conviction that could damage your reputation and make your life much more challenging.
A Palmetto pandering lawyer can take the lead with your case and get started on your defense. Protect yourself and your future today by calling on a dedicated defense attorney from J. Ryan Brown Law.
Pandering relates to crimes involving soliciting sex for money and assembling prostitutes for solicitation, also called pimping. Per the Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-6-12, any person who offers money or other items of value in exchange for acts of prostitution could be charged with pandering.
Actions involving convening people at one fixed location for prostitution are also considered pandering under the statute’s guidelines. A Palmetto pandering attorney understands these intricate charges and could help navigate the complex criminal court process.
The penalties for a conviction will vary depending on the case circumstances and the person’s history and prior criminal record. However, in most cases, an individual convicted of pandering will receive an aggravated misdemeanor on their permanent criminal record. If, however, it is someone’s second conviction for pandering, the punishment increases to a felony and carries up to ten years in prison.
Under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-6-13, certain elements can elevate the penalties for pandering significantly. Cases involving the participation of people between the ages of 16 and 18 will cause a felony conviction, steep fines, and a prison sentence of five to 20 years.
When the arrest involves an individual under 16, punishments include a prison sentence of 10 to 30 years and fines of up to $100,000. A pandering attorney serving Palmetto can answer specific questions on sentencing after reviewing your case.
In cases involving minors, the defendant may also be required to register as a sex offender if convicted of pandering.
Because of false information or misunderstandings, many innocent people are accused of pandering. Whether innocent or guilty, though, preparing a sound defense against criminal charges is the most effective way to reach a favorable outcome.
An arrest for pandering or similar sex crime charges commonly occurs after a misunderstanding by one of the involved parties occurs. The State’s failure to prove for the criminal court that there was an intent to solicit prostitution for themselves or a third party could be an effective defense strategy.
A case that fails to establish that the defendant made an offer of payment for the solicitation of prostitution or to assemble for the solicitation of sexual acts for another person is also a solid defense strategy. If the state cannot prove the solicitation beyond a reason doubt, they will have a hard time making their case. A Palmetto attorney can assess the facts of a pandering case and develop the most effective defense strategy possible.
Pandering and other criminal convictions involving sex crimes can have lasting implications. Fortunately, an arrest and the potential of sentencing do not mean the court will convict you of the crime.
A hard-working Palmetto pandering lawyer can evaluate the details of your case and serve as your legal advocate in and out of court. Contact a skilled attorney from J. Ryan Brown Law to start building your defense today.
J. Ryan Brown Law, LLC
J. Ryan Brown Law, LLC