Solicitation Criminal Attorney in Corpus Christi
Direct Guidance When Facing Solicitation Charges in Corpus Christi
If you or someone close to you has been contacted by law enforcement or charged with solicitation, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of your next step. As a solicitation criminal attorney in Corpus Christi, I work with people facing uncertainty, fear about the future, and worries about their reputation, family, or job.
Deciding who to trust at a time like this is challenging. I am Robert J. Gonzalez, and I have served clients in Corpus Christi and the surrounding area since 1984. With decades as a criminal defense lawyer and experience as a former Municipal Court Judge, I bring local insight and practical experience to every situation I handle.
If you want someone who will listen, provide honest guidance, and fight for your best interests, you are in the right place. My goal is to deliver immediate clarity, compassionate support, and a strong defense. As you consider your next steps, let me explain how my approach makes a meaningful difference.
Facing a felony solicitation charge? Secure my more than 3 decades of experience and former prosecutor insight immediately. Call a dedicated solicitation criminal attorney in Corpus Christi for a free consultation now! Call me at (361) 309-9332 or contact us online.
Understanding Solicitation Laws in Texas
The Texas Legislature dramatically increased the penalties for solicitation of prostitution in 2021, moving the first offense from a misdemeanor to a felony. It is crucial to understand that the crime is complete the moment the offer or agreement is made; no physical act or exchange of money needs to occur.
Solicitation of Prostitution (Penal Code § 43.021)
- Legal Definition: A person commits an offense if the person knowingly offers or agrees to pay a fee to another person for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct.
- The Key Element: The Offer—The prosecution's case relies entirely on the communication—whether spoken, texted, or implied—that demonstrates a clear intent to pay for sex. This communication is often secured by undercover officers in sting operations.
- Felony Status: A conviction for a first offense is a State Jail Felony, a mandatory prison offense.
- Aggravated Solicitation: The penalty escalates severely if the person solicited is a minor (under 18), which can lead to a felony of the second or third degree, carrying up to 20 years in state prison.
Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a Solicitation Conviction in Corpus Christi
The consequences of a solicitation conviction in Texas are life-altering and permanent, which is why securing a dismissal or acquittal is paramount.
Direct Penalties
- Prison Time: A State Jail Felony conviction is punishable by confinement in a state jail facility for a term of 180 days up to 2 years.
- Fines: Fines of up to $10,000.
- Probation: The defendant may be eligible for probation (community supervision) in lieu of prison time, but the underlying felony conviction remains on the record.
Collateral Consequences
- Felony Record: The felony conviction permanently remains on your criminal record, creating severe barriers to employment, professional licensing, and securing housing or loans.
- Reputation and Family: A solicitation charge, particularly in a close-knit community like Corpus Christi, inflicts irreparable damage to professional and personal relationships.
- Immigration Status: A felony conviction, particularly a sex-related one, often qualifies as a crime involving moral turpitude, leading to mandatory deportation for non-citizens.
- Firearm Rights: Although a State Jail Felony does not automatically disqualify firearm rights, the lifetime prohibition applies if the sentence exceeds one year (which is possible with enhanced penalties).
My Comprehensive Approach to Solicitation Defense
The strength of Robert J. Gonzalez, Attorney At Law, lies in my more than 3 decades of experience and my understanding of the psychology and procedure of police sting operations. I focus on dismantling the State's narrative of criminal intent.
- Entrapment as Primary Defense: I argue that the conduct was a direct result of aggressive, persistent, or overly suggestive police tactics, not the defendant's inherent intent to commit the crime. I specifically look for evidence that the officer introduced the idea of compensation for sex.
- Lack of Specific Intent: I argue that the communication was ambiguous, focusing on companionship or casual conversation, and that the prosecution cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the explicit intent to pay for sexual conduct was present.
- Challenging Digital Evidence: In cases relying on text messages or online communications, I challenge the context, authentication, and chain of custody of the digital evidence, ensuring the communication is not taken out of context.
- Former Prosecutor Insight: I anticipate the prosecutor's strategy for countering entrapment claims and structure the defense to address those arguments preemptively, an advantage few Corpus Christi solicitation lawyer firms can offer.
Take The First Step—Contact Me for a Risk-Free Consultation
Reaching out to an attorney may feel uncomfortable, but doing so gives you control and support right away. When you contact my office, you will receive a confidential conversation, practical advice about your case, and a clear action plan—all at no cost.
You deserve answers to your questions and concerns. When you call me, you speak with me directly. No complicated call systems—just straight to help when it matters most. Whether you are ready to move forward or simply want information, I am here to back you up. Don't try to handle this on your own. Taking the first step now can help preserve your options and improve your outcome.
Call (361) 309-9332 or reach out online for your confidential, risk-free consultation with a solicitation criminal attorney in Corpus Christi today.
Success Stories Our Happy Clients
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What Makes Robert Gonzalez Different
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Dedicated Family FocusAs a family-owned law firm, we prioritize personalized care, treating each client like family. Trust us to navigate your legal journey with a commitment to your well-being and success.
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A Former Prosecutor on Your SideAs a former prosecutor, I have a unique understanding of both sides of the courtroom. I can anticipate the prosecution’s case against you and build a highly effective defense strategy accordingly. Allow me to help you with your future.
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Trusted & Recommended AttorneyOver the past three decades, I have earned a reputation for providing hard-hitting representation, individualized support and compassionate care to each of my clients.
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Free Confidential Case ConsultationsI aim to make the legal process as simple and painless as possible for clients. As such, I offer free consultations to help clients get started. Do not hesitate to get in touch with my law firm today to request your initial consultation.
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More Than 3 Decades of ExperienceWith my extensive legal experience and exceptional history of success in your corner, you may increase your chances of securing a favorable case outcome. Representing your rights is more than just a job to me, it is my passion. Put my experience to work for you today.
My Defense Approach for Solicitation Charges in Corpus Christi
Being accused of solicitation, or even just questioned by police, brings stress and confusion. From the first call, I prioritize your concerns and explain your options in straightforward language. Every case is managed by me personally—you will not be handed off to assistants or junior lawyers. Throughout your case, you work directly with me.
I offer an initial consultation that is risk-free and confidential. It is not just about legal charges. I take time to understand your concerns, your goals, and everything important to you. If you feel overwhelmed or unsure, I strive to give you peace of mind through straightforward advice. What you do at this moment can have a real effect, so I encourage you to reach out, even if you just need information or reassurance to start.
Why Clients Throughout Corpus Christi Trust My Defense
A strong defense matters when you are facing solicitation charges. Clients across Corpus Christi come to me for my extensive background and personal approach. With more than three decades representing people in Nueces County courts, I know the local legal landscape and the unique issues that often arise in this community.
Because I am a former Municipal Court Judge, I offer a perspective few defense lawyers can match. I understand how local judges and prosecutors handle these cases and use that experience to craft strategies tailored for the courts in Corpus Christi. You always receive my direct involvement and open communication, not just promises. Since 1984, my practice has been built on trust and reliability, and I am proud of that reputation.
What To Do If You Are Arrested or Under Investigation
Your response during an arrest or police investigation can significantly affect your case outcome. Protecting your rights and avoiding risky statements is critical, as anything you say can be misunderstood or used against you in court.
The most important steps if you are facing solicitation charges:
- Stay calm and polite. Do not argue or make detailed statements without your attorney.
- Request to speak with your attorney immediately. You have the right to legal counsel throughout the process.
- Limit discussions about your case to your attorney. Friends, family, and police investigators should not be given information that could be misunderstood.
- Record the details. Write down what happened, who was present, and any conversations related to your case as soon as possible.
- Contact my office promptly. The sooner I am involved, the better I can protect your rights and build your defense.
Your privacy and reputation matter. I always handle every case with discretion, keeping your situation as confidential as possible at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens after I am charged with solicitation in Corpus Christi?
After a solicitation charge is filed in Corpus Christi, the process typically starts in the Nueces County Courthouse. You will receive official notice and a date for your first hearing, which is usually called an arraignment. This is when the court informs you of your rights and the charges against you. Several stages follow, including pre-trial hearings and discussions about possible plea agreements. I walk you through each part of the process, keep you informed, and help you prepare at every step.
How do you use your judge experience to help my case?
As a former Municipal Court Judge, I am deeply familiar with local courtroom procedures and know how judges and prosecutors in Corpus Christi typically approach solicitation cases. This background helps me anticipate the strengths and weaknesses that the other side might focus on. With this insight, I build your defense strategy based on how these cases are actually handled locally. My goal is to position your case in the best possible light and guide you through important decisions with real-world perspective.
Will hiring you keep my case more private?
While no lawyer can completely remove public records, I treat every case with strict discretion. I ensure your personal information is kept confidential and manage your case with privacy in mind. By working directly with me, fewer people know about the details of your case, and I focus on privacy both in legal strategy and communication. From our first discussion, protecting your reputation is a high priority, and I take real steps to limit unnecessary exposure whenever possible.
What penalties could I face for solicitation charges?
Penalties for solicitation charges in Corpus Christi depend on the underlying crime and your record. Texas law allows for jail time, fines, and a criminal record if convicted. Some solicitation offenses are charged as felonies, especially if they involve serious underlying offenses. In every situation, I explain the potential outcomes that specifically apply to your situation and explain how local judges often view these charges. I also discuss any potential avenues for seeking reduced penalties if available.
How soon should I talk to a lawyer after being contacted by police?
Contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible, even if you are just being investigated. Early legal advice can protect your rights and help you avoid mistakes. I offer prompt, risk-free consultations so you can get help without waiting or worrying about commitment. Acting quickly gives us more time to plan and makes it easier to protect you at every step.
Will I work directly with you or someone else?
You will work directly with me, Robert J. Gonzalez, at all stages. I do not send clients to assistants or junior lawyers. My approach means you receive my personal attention, direct advice, and a defense strategy that addresses your actual needs. This direct relationship distinguishes my practice, especially for clients in Corpus Christi and nearby communities, by ensuring clear communication and genuine trust throughout the process.