Online Solicitation Lawyer in Harrisburg, PA
We Defend Online Solicitation Charges in Harrisburg and Throughout Pennsylvania
At The Hoover Firm, LLC, our Harrisburg online solicitation defense attorney is a skilled, knowledgeable, and solutions-focused advocate for defendants. If you were arrested for online solicitation or any other sex crimes offense, our firm is here as a resource. You can contact us at our Harrisburg office to set up your confidential consultation with a top Pennsylvania defense attorney.
Know the Law: Online Solicitation in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the crime of online solicitation is generally prosecuted under the Unlawful Contact with a Minor statute (18 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 6318). The law makes it illegal to use a computer, phone, or any electronic communication system to intentionally contact a minor (or, importantly, someone believed to be a minor) for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity, exploitation, or other prohibited conduct. It is important to emphasize that the statute in Pennsylvania applies even if the person on the other end of the communication is not actually a minor but an undercover officer. What matters is the defendant’s intent and belief during the interaction.
Online Solicitation Can Be Charged as a Felony Offense in Pennsylvania
Online solicitation is a serious criminal offense in Pennsylvania. The specific classification of the offense depends on the underlying purpose of the communication. As an example, if the solicitation involved sexual activity, the offense is typically classified as a felony of the third degree. That is a crime that is punishable by up to seven years in prison, a $15,000 fine, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. In cases with aggravated misconduct, such as where the communication involves child pornography or trafficking-related conduct, penalties can be enhanced.
All Defendants are Presumed Innocent Until Proven Guilty
Defendants facing online solicitation charges are not without options. An arrest (if one has already been made) is an allegation. You have the right to defend yourself against any criminal allegation, no matter how serious. Some common defenses in online solicitation cases include:
- Challenging whether the communication actually met the statutory definition of solicitation;
- Contesting the sufficiency of the evidence; and
- Raising entrapment if law enforcement induced conduct that the defendant otherwise would not have engaged in.
Beyond that, questions about improper police procedures, violations of constitutional rights, or unreliable digital evidence can be raised. No matter the specific circumstances, a Harrisburg criminal defense lawyer can help you evaluate all options to address the charges.
You Need a Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyer
Facing a charge for online solicitation is stressful, even overwhelming. If you were arrested and charged with this type of offense, you have the right to defend yourself. Our founder David M. Hoover is a top-rated sex crimes defense attorney. We are committed to personalized advocacy. When you contact us at our Harrisburg law office, you will have an opportunity to consult with a Pennsylvania online solicitation defense attorney who can:
- Conduct a comprehensive, confidential consultation;
- Investigate the online solicitation charges, gathering evidence;
- Represent you before law enforcement and prosecutors; and
- Develop a personalized strategy focused on securing the best outcome.
Contact Our Harrisburg Online Solicitation Defense Attorney Today
At The Hoover Firm, LLC, our Harrisburg sex crimes defense lawyer has the knowledge, skills, and experience to defend online solicitation charges. If you were arrested for solicitation using the internet, please do not hesitate to contact us today for a confidential consultation. From our Harrisburg law office, we defend sex crimes charges throughout Central Pennsylvania.