Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

I was recently "brought-in" and booked by the lapd for soliciting a prostitute.

In an area near downtown LA an undercover officer flaged me down, exchanged words and money and sex were mentioned. When I realized how stupid and dangerous the situation was, I tried to get out of it by saying I would comeback and that I wanted to get my own condoms and I can't recall how much more I said. Finally after realizing I could get out of there without getting hurt I drove away, and five or six blocks away I was stoped and the rest I'm sure you know....

My question is: What are my chances to have the charges droped or atleast have them reduced to a lesser charge, given the facts and sircumstances?


Asked on 9/04/09, 4:41 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Your chances aren't good if you try to do this on your own. They will be much better if you get a lawyer, though the odds may still be against you. (Remember that a lawyer will be appointed for you if you can't afford to hire one.)

It sounds like there is plenty of evidence that you are guilty as charged. Nothing you have said would give the D.A. any reason to drop the charges. She may let you plead to a lesser offense, but you surely won't know how to negotiate such a deal on your own. Let a lawyer do it for you.

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Answered on 9/04/09, 4:54 pm
Gary Polston The Law Office of Gary M. Polston

I agree with Mr. Hoffman. There are always ways to negotiate down, but the soliciting occurs as soon as the request is made (handing over the cash is just extra proof of your intention).

Say nothing in Court. If you can't afford a lawyer, let your public defender work on your behalf.

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Answered on 9/04/09, 5:19 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

The police and DA don't go through the time and effort to press charges, just to drop them because you want them to. Your attorney may be able to use whatever facts, evidence, witnesses, sympathy, etc., that you have on your side to negotiate a plea bargain you could accept. That might include reduction or change of charges. If serious about getting legal help, feel free to contact me.

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Answered on 9/07/09, 2:36 pm


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