Seattle Sexual Exploitation Defense Attorneys
Dedicated Support for Seattle Residents Facing Sexual Exploitation Charges
The words used to describe a crime are important, which is why Seattle criminal charges, like sexual exploitation, have complicated the pursuit of justice in the city. It can be argued that the charge is unnecessarily confusing, leading to unintended consequences for everyone involved. The impression given by a charge of sexual exploitation can make a lower-level misdemeanor sound more dangerous and severe a crime than the statute defines.
Call (206) 895-6800 to schedule a consultation. We can begin working on your case immediately.
What Is Considered Sexual Exploitation in WA?
The charge of sexual exploitation, while not a new crime, is unique to Seattle. Under city ordinance 12A.10.040, the misdemeanor crime of soliciting or patronizing a prostitute was changed to sexual exploitation. As a simple misdemeanor, those convicted of sexual exploitation charges face up to 90 days in jail and a $1000 fine. There is also a special fine that supports the City of Seattle Sex Industry Victims’ Fund. The fine for the special fund is also $1000.
A person may face sexual exploitation charges in Seattle if they are found in violation of any of the following:
- He or she agrees to pay a fee to another person as compensation for the person or a third party to engage with them in sexual congress or conduct as defined in RCW 9A.88.030
- He or she asks another person to engage in sexual congress or conduct with them with the understanding a fee will be paid
If convicted on charges of sexual exploitation in Seattle, a person faces penalties as follows:
- Up to 90 days in jail
- A fine of up to $1000
- Additional fees and assessments as warranted by law
While the laws regarding the solicitation of a prostitute have not changed, the consequences have become far more severe for many caught dealing with the unintended consequences of this legal name change. Some parties convicted on this charge, which is a misdemeanor, have missed out on employment opportunities because background checks can flag the crime as a felony.
Understanding Sting Operations in Sexual Exploitation Cases
When law enforcement works to rid city streets of crime, they use various tactics to collect evidence and find perpetrators. In sexual exploitation cases, sting operations are quite common, and they are used to provide evidence of intent to engage a prostitute in violation of the law. Stings are created to find perpetrators soliciting sex.
The operation must provide evidence the person has:
- Made an offer to engage in sexual congress or conduct with another person
- Mentioned a sex act
- Named a price and place to conduct the sex act
Many operations are put together using Craigslist, Backpage, and other online sites. The police use digital ads to find both sex workers and solicitors seeking sex acts. They answer sexual requests undercover or pretend to be sex workers online to catch those seeking sexual conduct online.
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“Albert takes every factor into account and then some, when he says, "I'll be there, I here 24 hrs contact me," he means it.”- Teresa
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“There were two of us in trouble with the same charges, Albert got me a better deal and less fine for exactly the same charge.”- Scott
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“I have been represented by Albert and this law firm in several cases and the results have been awesome. It is truly wonderful to be represented by attorneys that truly cared about me and my family.”- T.C.
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“Albert Guadagno is without a doubt professional and courteous as a lawyer as I've ever met. Took care of my issues and made sure that I stayed straight with my court dates. I would highly recommend Albert for any legal or just regular advice situation. I really feel blessed for having to meet him and for him to help me with my situation.”- Dustin
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“Always made himself available with updates and just go out of his way to stop by an check in on me meant a lot!”- Tino
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“After having experienced one of the most difficult times in my life after being charged for a crime, I contacted Albert at Guadagno Law. Albert was able to help me in this difficult time and was able to take a very stressful situation and put me at ease. Albert promised that he would work hard and diligently for me, and he did. I was able to win my case due to him. Albert was gracious, direct, and honest about my case and what he was going to do to help me win. I will highly recommend Guadagno Law if one needs to seek legal advice.”- Ben
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“Albert was wonderful throughout the entire legal process. He was always very quick to respond and was very thorough.”- KB
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“Working with Albert was an absolute blessing. He really takes the time to get to know you so he can truly make a defense from your corner. Our phone calls were always filled with laughs to help ease the painful situation. He's brilliant and easy to trust. I would always recommend him again and again.”- A. G.
