These offences include:
- Obtaining sexual services for consideration
- Obtaining a material benefit from sexual services
- Advertising for sexual services
If you have been convicted or charged with a prostitution-related offence, the experienced prostitution defence lawyers at Bourdon Defence may be able to assist you throughout your case. Our knowledgeable legal team can explore potential legal defences and may be able to request a sentence reduction if you have already sustained a conviction.
Obtaining Sexual Services for Money or Other Compensation
This offence involves communicating or purchasing in order to obtain some sexual favour or service. Purchase does not need to necessarily involve money but can be something else of value that someone offers in exchange for sex. The sentence imposed by a judge upon conviction for this offence depends largely upon all of the factors in play. Those factors may include the accused’s prior criminal record and whether he or she ever sustained a prostitution charge in the past. Another important factor is the location where the offence occurred. For example, a person who purchases sex in or around a place where minors are typically found—such as near a school—will often face a higher penalty. A convicted offender may be required to pay monetary sanctions ranging anywhere from $500 to $4,000. Moreover, the offender could receive a sentence of a maximum of five years’ incarceration.
Obtaining Benefits from Sexual Services and Advertising Sexual Services
Individuals who receive compensation for sex work or who receive other material benefits can be subject to similar criminal penalties. The same is true for individuals who advertise for sexual services.
Immunity from Prosecution and Penalties
In some instances, the accused may ultimately be deemed immune from prosecution, and consequently, from any penalties. This is true for individuals who receive a material benefit from their own sexual services or who advertise their own services.
Talk to a Calgary Prostitution Defence Lawyer Today
Although prostitution, in and of itself, is not illegal in Calgary, there are certain criminal offences related to prostitution that are illegal. In those instances, a conviction can land the accused in jail, or at the very least, subject them to hefty fines and other potential penalties. The criminal defence lawyers at Bourdon Defence can examine your criminal record and may be able to argue for a charge reduction. If you have already sustained a conviction, our legal team can advocate for your interests in court and request a lighter penalty. To schedule a free consultation and case evaluation with a Calgary prostitution defence lawyer, please call us today at (403) 474-4143, or contact us online.