Prostitution

Rochester Prostitution Lawyer

Is Prostitution Legal in New York? 

Prostitution is illegal in New York, as it is in most states throughout the United States. Under New York law, prostitution is defined as engaging or agreeing to engage in sexual conduct with another person in exchange for a fee. This includes the person paying for the sexual act and the person receiving payment.

In addition to prostitution, related activities such as solicitation, patronizing a prostitute, and promoting prostitution are also illegal in New York. Solicitation involves requesting or offering to pay for sexual conduct, while patronizing a prostitute involves paying for sexual behavior. Promoting prostitution involves compelling, inducing, or promoting prostitution for financial gain.


Are you facing a prostitution charge in New York? Call Christopher K. Rodeman Attorney at Law today at (585) 928-4193 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our prostitution attorney in Rochester! 


What are the Penalties for Prostitution in New York? 

In New York, prostitution is considered a crime that can carry severe penalties, including prison time and fines. The severity of the punishment depends on if it is someone's first offense or if they have been convicted of prostitution before.

First-time offenders are typically charged with a Class A Misdemeanor and may face up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Subsequent convictions for prostitution can be charged as felonies and could lead to multiple years in prison and much more significant fines.

Additionally, those convicted may also face additional consequences, such as having to register as a sex offender or seek treatment from a court-ordered rehabilitation program.
If you have been arrested for or are accused of prostitution in New York, you must seek legal counsel as soon as possible to understand your rights and determine which defense strategy might work best for your situation.

Contact Our Rochester Prostitution Attorney Today 

If you are facing charges related to prostitution in New York, seeking legal representation as soon as possible is essential. At Christopher K. Rodeman Attorney at Law, we can help you understand your rights and options and work to build a strong defense on your behalf. With the right legal representation, reducing or dismissing the charges against you and protecting your future may be possible.


Contact Christopher K. Rodeman Attorney at Law today to schedule a FREE consultation with our prostitution lawyer in Rochester! 


Our Dedicated Rochester Sex Crime Lawyer Can Defend You

Our firm's attorney, Christopher Rodeman, is well-versed with how difficult and damaging sexual offense accusations can be. As a former prosecutor, I'm familiar with how New York prosecutors prioritize these criminal cases and know what it takes to secure a reduction or dismissal of your charge. My clients can always rest assured that every possible legal effort towards a reduction or dismissal on their behalf will be diligently pursued both in and outside of court.


If you are facing sex crimes charges in New York, schedule your free initial consultation to start exploring your legal defense options.


Kinds of Prostitution Offenses in Rochester

N.Y. Pen. Law § 230 says, "A person is guilty of prostitution when such person engages or agrees or offers to engage in sexual conduct with another person in return for a fee." As you can see, this language is sure to include both parties involved. Those who are paying for sexual conduct and the person being paid or promoting the sexual acts.

The crimes should be taken seriously as the penalties can be quite severe.

Charges for patronizing a prostitute include:

  • Third-Degree (N.Y. Pen. Law § 230.04) 
    Charged when the accused knowingly patronizes a prostitute.
  • Second-Degree (N.Y. Pen. Law § 230.05) 
    Charged when the accused is over 18 years old and knowingly patronizes a prostitute who is under 14.
  • First-Degree (N.Y. Pen. Law § 230.06) 
    Charged when the accused knowingly patronizes a prostitute who is under eleven years old.

Charges for promoting prostitution include:

  • Fourth-Degree (N.Y. Pen. Law § 230.20) 
    Charged when and individual profits or advances prostitution. Promoting prostitution with obscene material to 10 or more people is also fourth-degree promoting prostitution.
  • Third-Degree (N.Y. Pen. Law § 230.25) 
    Charged when an individual, either alone or in association with others, runs a prostitution enterprise. This can include travel services to foreign jurisdictions. Profiting from or advancing the prostitution of someone under nineteen years old is also third-degree promoting prostitution.
  • Second-Degree (N.Y. Pen. Law § 230.30) 
    Charged when an individual compels or threatens someone to get them to engage in prostitution. Profiting from or advancing prostitution of someone less than 16 years old is also second-degree promoting.
  • First-Degree (N.Y. Pen. Law § 230.32) 
    Charged when an individual profits from or advances the prostitution of someone younger than 11 years old.