Men in Los Angeles who are arrested for solicitation as a first offense may catch a break, thanks to a new program designed to reduce related criminal activities, including assault and drug crimes.

The program provides education to men who have been arrested for solicitation instead of a trip to court. It’s a one-time break; men who are arrested a second time go before a judge. The program warns men about the dangers of soliciting prostitutes. Sometimes, men become robbery victims and face an increased risk of assault. In other cases, they are exposed to sexually transmitted diseases, some of which are incurable. Men are also educated about the violence that the women themselves face as part of the work. The prostitutes themselves can become victims of assault, either by the men who solicit them, or those they work for. The program attempts to show the men how their actions perpetuate the cycle of violence that goes along with prostitution.

Depending upon why you have been arrested, first-time offenders can often find a certain amount of lenience in the court. You may need the assistance of an experienced defense attorney to find those opportunities, however. Robert Michael Helfend has been practicing criminal defense exclusively in Los Angeles County for nearly 25 years. He also takes cases in Orange County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County and Ventura County.

Mr. Helfend’s primary goals are to defend your rights in court and to secure the best possible outcome for you. While first-time offenses are not overlooked by the courts, it is possible to find alternatives to jail in some cases. Often, leniency depends upon many factors, including the willingness of the client to participate in special programs, and the experience of the defendant’s attorney.

Experience counts! Don’t trust your future to an inexperienced defense attorney, and don’t make the mistake of self-defending in “small” matters. The services of an experienced, skilled criminal defense attorney can make all the difference in the world. Contact Robert Helfend today.

Photo Credit: Nina Jean