Solicitation Criminal Attorney in Stephenville

Facing a Solicitation Charge? We Help You Navigate Every Step

Are you feeling overwhelmed after being charged with solicitation in Stephenville? Not knowing where to turn or how a criminal charge might impact your life can be frightening. At Law Offices of Brady L. Pendleton, we understand the anxiety and confusion that follow such an accusation, and we are here to help you make sense of the process ahead.

Your reputation, future, and peace of mind can suddenly feel at risk. Whether you are worried about your job, your standing in the community, or simply unsure of what happens next, our team provides guidance and support every step of the way. We treat every client with respect and never judge, no matter the circumstances behind your case.

Our firm is committed to providing quick, clear communication and tailored legal representation for each client. With our local experience in Stephenville and Erath County courts, you can count on us to provide hands-on guidance and a steady approach as we work together through your legal journey.

Speak with a dedicated Stephenville solicitation defense lawyer for a free consultation. Contact the Law Offices of Brady L. Pendleton by calling (888) 246-6869 today, leveraging our proven results and bilingual services in Spanish.

Understanding Sexual Solicitation Laws in Texas

In Texas, the offense of Solicitation of Prostitution is defined by statute as Prostitution when the actor offers or agrees to engage in sexual conduct for a fee.

The prosecution must prove the actor offered or agreed to a fee for the sexual conduct.

• Offer or Agreement: The defendant must have made an offer or agreed to pay (or receive) compensation for sex.
• Sexual Conduct: This is broadly defined and includes sexual intercourse, deviate sexual intercourse, and sexual contact.

Crucially, the other party does not have to be an actual prostitute or sex worker; the charge can be proven if the defendant made the offer or agreement to an undercover officer and demonstrated the required criminal intent.

Escalating Penalties

The penalties for solicitation of prostitution increase rapidly with prior offenses, emphasizing the need for a Stephenville solicitation defense lawyer to secure a non-conviction outcome on the first charge:

• First and Second Offense: Class B Misdemeanor—Punishable by up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $2,000.
• Third or Subsequent Offense: State Jail Felony—Punishable by 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility and fines up to $10,000.

If the charge involves human trafficking or the solicitation of a minor, the offense is elevated to an even more severe felony.

Our Strategic Approach to Solicitation Defense

Our firm's defense strategy focuses on attacking the most vulnerable elements of the prosecution's case: the defendant's specific intent and the legality of police conduct.

• Entrapment Defense: This is a crucial strategy in undercover sting cases. We argue that the government's agents went beyond merely providing an opportunity to commit the crime and instead implanted the criminal design in the mind of an otherwise innocent person.
• Challenging Intent (Ambiguous Communication): We scrutinize the communication (texts, audio) to argue that the conversation never reached a final, unambiguous agreement to pay for a specific sexual act, or that the defendant withdrew the offer before any crime was completed.
• Constitutional Scrutiny: We investigate the initial contact or detention for any violation of the Fourth Amendment (illegal stop or search of property, especially phones).
• Bilingual Client Services: We offer bilingual services in Spanish, ensuring that Spanish-speaking clients receive clear, direct, and timely communication regarding every aspect of their case, eliminating any potential miscommunication that could impact their defense.

Why Choose Our Firm to Defend You in Stephenville

When your future is on the line due to a solicitation charge, you deserve more than generic legal representation. We set ourselves apart by providing dedicated, one-on-one service. Our goal is to ensure you always know what is happening and what to expect next.

We have handled many criminal defense cases in Stephenville, Glen Rose, and the surrounding areas. Our understanding of local laws, courts, and processes allows us to navigate the unique aspects of Erath County's legal system. Clients turn to us because we make the legal process approachable. You receive honest, straightforward advice, allowing you to make informed decisions about your defense.

What makes us different is our unwavering focus on personal service. We do not use generic solutions. Instead, we craft a plan that fits your unique needs and situation, using our real experience defending solicitation cases in this region.

What to Do After a Solicitation Arrest in Stephenville

If you or a loved one has been arrested for solicitation or any related sex crime in Stephenville, taking the right next steps can help safeguard your future. First and foremost, avoid discussing your case with anyone except your lawyer. Law enforcement and prosecutors may use statements you make—even casual conversations—against you in court. Requesting counsel before answering questions is your right.

Here are the smartest steps you can take immediately after an arrest:

• Contact an attorney before making any statements to law enforcement.
• Review your release paperwork for your next court date and any conditions.
• Follow all instructions provided by the Erath County Detention Center or Stephenville Police Department.
• Avoid posting about your case on social media or sharing details with anyone other than your lawyer.

When you contact us, we prioritize quick action. We review initial documents with you, help you avoid common mistakes, and begin developing a defense strategy immediately. Our goal is to reduce your stress and provide clarity from the very start.

Your freedom is at stake. Get aggressive legal defense. Call (888) 246-6869 or contact us online now to consult with a solicitation criminal attorney in Stephenville who offers free consultations, proven results, and bilingual services in Spanish.