To have a clear understanding of how you could be convicted of prostitution in Missouri, it is essential to explain the state laws. Under the Missouri Revised Statute Section The key to be found guilty under this law is that you are, or some else, is receiving value from someone engaging in sexual conduct. Also, stated in the law is that it is not a defense to state that the individual was 18 years of age or older, whether 18 years old or not, it is still illegal.
Avoiding the consequences of this law should not be difficult. Most individuals have a good idea of what prostitution is. Prostitution can be street walking, owning a brothel, or escorts. Any of these will fall under the law as being illegal. Prostitution in Missouri can be a very serious crime that can have extreme consequences.
Help from a criminal defense attorney should be sought. Missouri Legal has the experience to help you with your situation. If you are being charged with prostitution or the individual managing the activity, an experienced attorney can help you protect your freedoms. In addition, it should be known that rape can still be committed with a prostitute. The law for rape is that non-consensual sexual activity is considered rape, whether or not it is a prostitute.
Prostitutes have the same legal protections as everyone else in the state. Prostitutes should seek guidance if they have been raped. The law is meant to protect all individuals. Having a basic understanding of this law, will make it extremely clear as to when a sexual act is considered prostitution.
Also, knowing the consequences and penalties that follow can act as a deterrent for any future prostitution behavior. Prostitution in Missouri will bring with it many penalties. The penalties will vary depending on the age of the prostitute and the operation involved. There can also be other factors analyzed in determining a penalty. The offense of patronizing prostitution is a class B misdemeanor, unless the individual who the person patronizes is less than eighteen years of age but older than fourteen years of age, in which case patronizing prostitution is a class A misdemeanor.
