Prostitution Attorney in Indiana

Defense Against Prostitution Charges in Lawrenceburg—Discreet Legal Advocacy

When you face a prostitution charge in Indiana, anxiety and uncertainty can make every step feel overwhelming. You need guidance from a prostitution defense attorney who knows Indiana law, values your privacy, and keeps you informed at every stage. 

At Bleile & Dawson, we help Indiana clients find clarity, answer legal questions, and plan for the decisions ahead. With years of experience representing individuals in Indiana criminal courts, we know how to present your case to local judges and prosecutors and help you navigate the process with confidence.

Your privacy matters. We understand these cases often come with embarrassment and concern about your future. We provide a confidential, judgment-free space where you can discuss your circumstances and get honest answers. By working with a prostitution defense lawyer in Indiana, you receive clear guidance and ongoing support, so you always know your rights and next steps.

Call a trusted prostitution attorney in Indiana at (812) 747-9771 or reach out online now. We are available 24/7 and offer free consultations to launch your defense immediately.

Understanding Indiana Prostitution Laws

Indiana law targets both the seller and the buyer of sexual services with separate but related statutes. Prostitution specifically targets the person offering or performing the sexual act for a fee.

An arrest for prostitution in Indiana, defined under I.C. §35−45−4−2, is a deeply embarrassing legal crisis that threatens your reputation, employment, and freedom. The law targets individuals knowingly or intentionally performing, offering, or agreeing to perform sexual conduct in exchange for money or property.

Key Elements of Prostitution

For a prosecutor to secure a conviction for prostitution, they must prove three core elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

• Age and Intent: The person is at least 18 years of age and acts knowingly or intentionally.
• The Act or Agreement: The person performs, or offers or agrees to perform, sexual intercourse, other sexual conduct, or fondles the genitals of another person.
• The Exchange: The act or agreement is made for money or other property.

It is important to note that the crime is complete upon the offer or agreement, meaning a physical sexual act does not need to occur for a charge to be valid.

Penalties and Consequences of an Indiana Prostitution Conviction

While a first offense is classified as a Class A Misdemeanor, the potential impact on your life requires serious legal intervention from an Indiana prostitution defense lawyer.

• Jail Time: Up to one year in a county jail.
• Fines: A maximum fine of $5,000.
• Felony Enhancement: If the individual has two or more prior, unrelated prostitution convictions, the charge is automatically elevated to a Level 6 Felony, punishable by up to 2.5 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Collateral Consequences: Reputational Damage

A conviction for prostitution or any related sex offense carries devastating long-term consequences that surpass the direct jail sentence:

• Permanent Criminal Record: The conviction becomes a permanent public criminal record, highly visible to employers, landlords, and educational institutions.
• Employment and Career Loss: Convictions for crimes involving moral turpitude often lead to immediate loss of professional licensing (e.g., teaching, nursing, finance) and job termination.
• Social Stigma: The intense social and personal embarrassment can cause irreparable harm to marriages, relationships, and standing in the community.
• Travel Restrictions: A sex-related conviction can complicate or prevent international travel.

What to Expect When Facing Prostitution Charges

If you are arrested or charged with prostitution in Indiana, your case may involve several court hearings, negotiations, and possibly a trial. The process often includes:

• Initial appearance in court where you hear the specific charge against you
• Bond hearing or consideration of release conditions
• Evaluation of police reports, communications evidence, or witness testimony
• Opportunities for negotiation or plea bargaining
• Trial if your case proceeds that far

Factors such as your past record, the severity of allegations, and local court routines can influence the progression and available choices. Courts in Indiana may have different procedures and deadlines. In larger cities, such as Marion County, you might have multiple status hearings to discuss evidence and plea options. 

Smaller county courts could move faster and set earlier deadlines for decisions. We prepare you thoroughly regardless of court size, helping you understand what to expect and how to act at every point.

Our Defense Strategies For Prostitution Charges

Effective defense requires challenging the elements of intent and addressing the high probability that the evidence was gathered during a police sting. These include:

• Entrapment: This is the strongest defense in many prostitution arrests. We argue that law enforcement induced or coerced the client into committing a crime they otherwise would not have committed, thereby violating the client's rights. This defense hinges on proving a lack of predisposition.
• Lack of Intent/Ambiguity: We argue that the statements or conduct did not rise to the level of a clear offer or agreement for a sexual act in exchange for money. Ambiguity in online communications or verbal exchanges can create the reasonable doubt necessary for acquittal.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: We scrutinize the police investigation for constitutional flaws, particularly related to the traffic stop, search of a vehicle, or the seizure of electronic devices (phones, computers). Any violation can lead to the suppression of evidence.
• Affirmative Defense (Human Trafficking Victim): Under Indiana law, being a victim of human trafficking is an affirmative defense to prostitution, meaning charges must be dismissed if this can be proven.

Our firm is intimately familiar with the Dearborn County court system and works diligently to protect your privacy and secure the most favorable outcome, including non-conviction resolutions.

How We Approach Prostitution Defense Cases

Every client’s story is unique, and every case requires a tailored defense. When you choose us as your prostitution defense lawyers in Indiana, you gain a committed legal team focused on protecting your rights and guiding you through each step of the process.

We explain your legal options clearly, outlining available defenses, court procedures, and what you can realistically expect. Our team reviews all evidence thoroughly, from police reports to communications and witness statements, ensuring no detail is overlooked in preparing your defense.

Throughout the case, we provide a candid assessment of possible outcomes, keeping you informed and prepared for both short- and long-term implications. We also handle every interaction with discretion, respecting your privacy and reputation while guiding you through Indiana’s court system with steady support.

Why Choose Bleile & Dawson as Your Prostitution Defense Attorney in Indiana

Throughout the process, we keep you informed and empowered, so you can make confident decisions every step of the way:

• Personalized approach: We focus on honest communication and thoughtful strategy from your first consultation.
• Experience with Indiana prostitution defense: Our background includes working with clients facing prostitution charges in Indiana's criminal courts. We understand local processes and what matters to area prosecutors.
• Dedicated client service: We answer your questions, explain each phase, and stay available for your concerns.
• Confidential & nonjudgmental counsel: You always receive respectful, confidential support and practical solutions.

Many clients worry about the effects of criminal charges on their careers, family, or reputation. We listen closely to your priorities and provide thoughtful advice. Indiana courts often consider steps taken before and during your case, and our approach helps you present yourself professionally while protecting your rights.

Contact an Indiana Prostitution Defense Attorney Today

When you face prostitution charges in Indiana, timing matters. Reaching out to Bleile & Dawson gives you access to straight answers and professional guidance from your first call. You don't have to navigate questions or court appearances on your own. 

Call (812) 747-9771 or reach out online for a private, judgment-free consultation and start building your defense right away.

FAQs

What steps should I take after a prostitution charge?

Stay calm, speak only with your attorney about your case, and keep all court appointments. Connecting with a prostitution defense attorney in Indiana helps you defend your rights and prepare for what lies ahead.

Will my case remain confidential?

While most criminal records in Indiana are public, I treat all communications and proceedings with full discretion and privacy to protect your interests.

What are the possible penalties for prostitution in Indiana?

Penalties depend on details such as whether the case is charged as a misdemeanor or felony, your criminal history, and the presence of any aggravating factors. Court-imposed consequences may involve fines, probation, or jail.

Can charges be reduced or dismissed?

Case results vary by facts, law, and the evidence available. I assess all aspects of your case and provide guidance about the likelihood of reductions or dismissals as the process unfolds.

Do I have to go to court for a prostitution charge?

Most prostitution cases in Indiana require at least one court appearance. I help you prepare for each hearing so you know what to expect and how to handle yourself in court.

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