St. Paul Prostitution Defense Attorney

Accused of Prostitution in St. Paul, MN?

If you or a loved one has been charged with prostitution or a related offense in St. Paul, the consequences can be serious and long-lasting. At Tamburino Law Group, we understand how these charges can impact your life. Our team of experienced defense attorneys is dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome.

As a trusted St. Paul prostitution defense lawyer, we provide strong, discreet, and aggressive representation to those accused of prostitution, solicitation, or other related offenses. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony, we’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process.

Don’t face this charge alone. Contact our experienced St. Paul prostitution defense attorneys today at (612) 444-5020 for a confidential consultation. 

What is Prostitution?

Under Minnesota law, prostitution involves offering or agreeing to engage in sexual conduct for money or other items of value. It is defined and penalized under Minnesota Statutes § 609.321 – 609.324.

Prostitution charges can apply to:

• Individuals offering sex for money
• Individuals soliciting prostitution (the “buyer”)
• Individuals promoting prostitution (pimps, managers)
• Those involved in sex trafficking or facilitating the act

While some cases may involve consensual adult activities, Minnesota law strictly prohibits prostitution in nearly all forms. Even attempting or agreeing to engage in the act—without money actually changing hands—can be enough to justify an arrest.

Common Forms of Prostitution

Prostitution offenses come in many forms. The most common types seen in St. Paul include:

• Street Prostitution: This is the most traditional form, involving public solicitation, often between individuals on the street.
• Escort Services & Online Ads: Many prostitution cases now involve online platforms, such as websites or classified ads, used to arrange meetings under the guise of legal services.
• Massage Parlors & Spas: Some establishments may be suspected of operating as fronts for illegal prostitution.
• Solicitation of Prostitution: Even if you never actually receive any sexual service, offering payment or attempting to arrange a meeting can result in a criminal charge.
• Promotion of Prostitution: Running, managing, or profiting from prostitution by others is a more serious offense and often prosecuted as a felony.
• Sex Trafficking: This is a distinct but related offense involving force, fraud, or coercion used to involve someone in prostitution. Minnesota prosecutes these cases aggressively.

Penalties for Prostitution in Minnesota

Prostitution charges in Minnesota range from misdemeanor to felony, depending on the specifics of the case.

Misdemeanor

• Engaging in prostitution as a first-time offense
• Penalty: Up to 90 days in jail and/or up to $1,000 in fines

Gross Misdemeanor

• Subsequent offenses or offenses committed in certain public places
• Penalty: Up to 1 year in jail and/or up to $3,000 in fines

Felony

• Involves minors, coercion, or promotion of prostitution
• Penalty: Up to 20 years in prison and tens of thousands in fines, depending on the nature of the charge

In addition to jail time and fines, individuals convicted of prostitution offenses may face:

• Mandatory STD testing
• Probation or parole
• Community service
• Permanent criminal record
• Loss of employment or housing
• Immigration consequences (for non-citizens)

Repeat offenses or charges involving minors can dramatically increase the severity of the punishment.

Legal Defenses to Prostitution Charges

Every case is different, and the right legal defense will depend on the facts. At Tamburino Law Group, we conduct a thorough investigation of each case to uncover flaws in the prosecution’s evidence and to protect your rights.

Here are some of the defenses that may apply:

• Lack of Intent: If there was no genuine agreement or understanding to exchange money for sex, you may not be guilty of prostitution.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement induced or pressured you into committing the crime, your constitutional rights may have been violated.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, the accused is misidentified or wrongfully accused due to misleading online activity or surveillance errors.
• Insufficient Evidence: If there is no clear agreement, transaction, or act, the prosecution may have difficulty proving its case.
• Violation of Constitutional Rights: If your rights were violated during arrest or investigation—such as illegal searches or failure to advise you of your Miranda rights—we may be able to suppress evidence.

FAQs About Felonies in St. Paul, MN

Can I be charged if I never actually exchanged money or had sexual contact?

Yes. In Minnesota, an individual can be charged with prostitution-related offenses simply for offering or agreeing to engage in sexual activity for something of value. Actual payment or physical contact is not required for charges to be filed.

What happens if this is my first offense?

First-time offenders may be eligible for diversion programs, counseling, or education courses instead of jail time, especially if the charge is a misdemeanor. An experienced attorney can help advocate for alternative sentencing.

Will a prostitution charge go on my criminal record?

Yes, unless the charge is dismissed, acquitted, or expunged. A conviction can stay on your record and affect your employment, housing, and other opportunities. An attorney can help explore expungement options in the future.

Can I fight the charges even if I admitted guilt?

Yes. Even if you made statements to law enforcement, there may be legal grounds to challenge the evidence or the way your rights were handled. Never assume a case is unwinnable without first consulting with a defense lawyer.

How can an attorney help with prostitution charges?

An experienced defense attorney will evaluate the strength of the prosecution’s case, advise you of your legal rights, negotiate on your behalf, and fight for the best outcome, whether it’s dismissal, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing.

Contact a St. Paul Prostitution Defense Lawyer Today

A prostitution charge doesn’t have to define your future. At Tamburino Law Group, we believe every person deserves a second chance—and a strong legal defense. Whether you're accused of engaging in prostitution, solicitation, or promotion, we will work to reduce or dismiss your charges and protect your reputation.

To discuss your case confidentially and take the first step towards resolution, reach us at (612) 444-5020.