Prostitution carries with it some serious potential penalties, but a fine and potential jail time are only part of the equation. Minnesota courts also want to help women get to a place in their life where they don’t need to resort to prostitution, so some other requirements may be ordered by the court. Here’s a look at prostitution penalties in Minnesota, and other requirements made by the court based on the county you are arrested in.
Minnesota Prostitution Penalties
A first offense for prostitution is considered a misdemeanor offense, meaning it is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $1,000. A second prostitution offense within two years in considered a gross misdemeanor offense, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $3,000.
Regardless of whether it’s your first conviction or not, Minnesota also tacks on a separate $250 penalty assessment if you are found guilty of prostitution, so it can add up in a hurry. Any vehicle used during the commission of the crime can also be impounded by the state, which will mean more fees to get it back.
Penalties can also be enhanced if the sexual act took place in or near a school or park. Misdemeanor offenses get upgraded to gross misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors get upgraded to felonies, and felonies get additional years added to potential maximum sentences.
County-Specific Penalties
Some counties impose additional sanctions or requirements after a prostitution charge. For example, if you are arrested for prostitution in Dakota County, you will have to complete a psychosexual evaluation, and they have a standard 10-day jail recommendation.
In Ramsey and Hennepin County, they require offenders to attend a one-day prostitution recovery class. These counties also offer what’s known as a stay of imposition for vacate and dismissal. What this means is that if you plead guilty to the prostitution charge and complete all the terms of the judge’s sentence, the plea deal will be vacated by the court and the case will be dismissed, meaning your criminal record will be free from listing the offense.
Minnesota Prostitution Attorneys
If you have been arrested for prostitution or solicitation in Dakota County, Ramsey County, Hennepin County or another county near the Twin Cities metro area, reach out to Avery Appelman and his experienced team of defense lawyers today. We’ve helped many individuals get their sex charges reduced or dropped, and we can help you get back to where you want to be in life. To learn more about what Appelman Law Firm can do for you, call us at (952) 224-2277 today.