Exploitation of prostitutes
Criminal defense attorney Munich

Prostitution is only punishable if a relationship of dependency exists.

Exploitation of Prostitutes

The exploitation of prostitutes is regulated in Section 180a of the Criminal Code. A judge can impose a prison sentence of up to three years or a fine. Prostitution is not punishable in Germany; a brothel owner, for example, can legally act as an employer.

Criminal liability only exists if someone is guilty of exploiting prostitutes. This requires a personal or economic relationship of dependency. Both of these factors lead to prostitutes no longer being able to freely decide whether to end their work. Personal dependency can, among other things, mean that prostitutes are put under psychological pressure. An example of economic dependency is the compulsion to pay off debts through prostitution.

In the second paragraph of this section, the legislature added further cases. The exploitation of prostitutes occurs when a third party provides minors with an apartment, lodgings, or a place to stay for commercial purposes to carry out this activity.

Providing accommodation alone is sufficient for minors; pressure is not necessary. Anyone who provides an apartment to adults for prostitution can also come into conflict with the law. In this case, however, the provider must explicitly encourage the person or exploit them through significantly excessive rent, exploitation of homelessness, or similar measures.

Our law firm represents both accused and victims in cases of prostitution exploitation. Victims of prostitution, in particular, are often reluctant to file a criminal complaint with the police due to the existing dependency relationship. We will advise you in detail and consider your next steps. With targeted legal action, you can overcome your existing dependency.

Police summons

Do not respond without a lawyer

When the police initiate an investigation, they usually send a police summons promptly. Officers intend to interview the accused on the date specified in the letter. However, there is no obligation to comply with such a summons. Many recipients make the mistake of appearing for questioning and giving a statement without legal representation. These statements often lead to irreparable damage in the subsequent trial.

Arrest

Significantly Shortened Pre-trial Detention

If the public prosecutor’s office applies for and receives an arrest warrant against you, the police can arrest you at any time. Police officers usually arrive promptly at your home, workplace, or elsewhere. For those affected, an arrest and transfer to a correctional facility represents an exceptional situation. They are abruptly torn from their everyday lives.

The most important tip in criminal law.

REFUSE TO TESTIFY, CONTACT A LAWYER

The most important tip applies to sexual Offenses Law just as it does to general criminal law: Accused persons should not testify. Inconsiderate statements usually lead to self-incrimination, which greatly complicates the defense’s subsequent work. Instead, those affected should refuse to testify and immediately call H2 Attorneys at Law in Munich. They are available 24/7 via the emergency number.

Our specialist lawyers for sexual offenses will consider a prudent litigation strategy.