Being accused or charged with a sex crime could instantly flip your entire life upside-down. If you have been charged with internet solicitation of a minor, a serious criminal offense, you may be feeling embarrassed or terrified for your future. Internet solicitation carries heavy penalties, meaning your career, relationships, and freedom may be at risk.
However, an arrest does not equal a conviction, and you have the legal right to fight the charges against you. If you have been charged with internet solicitation of a minor in Pennsylvania, you need a trusted sex crime defense attorney on your side. Your attorney will conduct a full investigation into your case and be a fierce advocate for your rights.
Understanding Internet Solicitation in Pennsylvania
Internet solicitation of a minor is a serious offense in Pennsylvania, and understanding its definition and implications is crucial. Under Pennsylvania law, solicitation of a minor occurs when an adult engages in online communication with a minor, intending to meet for a sexual act. This offense is classified as a third-degree felony, which can result in severe penalties, including up to seven years in prison and fines reaching $15,000. The gravity of this crime underscores the importance of being aware of the legal boundaries and the severe consequences of crossing them.
Definition of Solicitation of a Minor
Solicitation of a minor is defined as any online communication or conversation between an adult and a minor where the adult intends to engage in a sexual act with the minor. This can encompass a wide range of digital interactions, including online chats, emails, text messages, and other forms of digital communication. Law enforcement agencies treat such offenses with the utmost seriousness, reflecting the significant risks and harms associated with these actions.
Types of Internet Crimes in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania law enforcement agencies are vigilant in investigating and prosecuting various types of internet crimes, including the online solicitation of a minor. Other internet crimes that fall under their scrutiny include online harassment, cyberstalking, computer trespass, and the distribution of child pornography. Each of these offenses carries its own set of legal consequences and reflects the broad scope of internet-related criminal activities that can have severe repercussions.
Online Solicitation and Other Internet Crimes
Online solicitation of a minor is a specific type of internet crime where an adult seeks to engage in a sexual act with a minor. This crime is distinct from other internet offenses, such as online harassment and cyberstalking, which involve using the internet to threaten, intimidate, or harass another person. Additionally, crimes like computer trespass and the distribution of child pornography are serious offenses that can lead to significant legal penalties. Understanding the differences between these crimes is essential for recognizing the various forms of internet misconduct and their potential consequences.
The Penalties for Online Solicitation of a Minor in Pennsylvania as a Third Degree Felony
If you are convicted of online solicitation of a minor in Pennsylvania, you could face a felony conviction and severe penalties. Online solicitation of a minor is classified as any internet communication between a minor and an adult where the adult actively sought out the minor and attempted to arrange a meeting for sexual activities. If no meeting transpired and you are charged with online solicitation alone, you could be charged with a third-degree felony. If convicted, you may face up to seven years in prison and $15,000 in fines. It is also important to note that the charge and penalties do not change if you were actually in contact with a police officer posing as a minor during a sting operation.
If a meeting with the minor did transpire, you could be charged with online solicitation as well as any other sex crime that may have been committed at the meeting. Every additional crime will be charged separately, meaning you could face decades in prison and tens of thousands of dollars in fines.
Possible Defenses for Online Solicitation of a Minor in Pennsylvania
Since the penalties for conviction are so severe, hiring an expert criminal defense attorney to defend your case is essential. Some possible defenses your lawyer may employ include:
- Someone else accessed your computer to message the minor
- You did not know the individual you were messaging was a minor
- Your reason to meet was not sexual in nature
- The arresting officer entrapped you or is guilty of misconduct
Additionally, your attorney may explore whether any federal law violations occurred during the investigation, which could impact the admissibility of evidence or the charges against you.
Your attorney will investigate and review every detail of your case to determine the best strategy for your unique situation.
Consequences of a Conviction
A conviction for internet solicitation of a minor can have far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate legal penalties. Such a conviction can severely damage one’s career, relationships, and overall freedom. The stigma associated with being labeled a sex offender can lead to long-term social and professional isolation. It is crucial to understand these potential outcomes and seek the advice of an experienced sex crime defense attorney to navigate the complexities of the legal system and protect your future.
Protecting Your Freedom and Reputation
If you are facing charges for internet solicitation of a minor, protecting your freedom and reputation should be your top priority. An experienced sex crime defense attorney can help you understand the charges against you, develop a robust defense strategy, and advocate for your rights throughout the legal process. With the right legal representation, it may be possible to reduce the charges or even have them dismissed, thereby safeguarding your future and mitigating the impact of such serious allegations.
Hire an Experienced Pennsylvania Sex Crime Defense Attorney
If you face charges for online solicitation of a minor in Pennsylvania, the stakes are too high to go without impeccable representation. A conviction can lead to being labeled as sex offenders, which carries a lifelong stigma and numerous legal restrictions. The experienced attorneys at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg, and Gifford, P.C. are experts in Pennsylvania law and are committed to providing their clients with the best possible defense. We have over 60 years of experience protecting the rights of the criminally accused and achieving favorable outcomes for their cases. To schedule a free consultation with a member of our dependable legal team, call us today at (215) 822-7575 or complete our contact form.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
April 7, 2025
