Columbus Prostitution Attorneys

Accusations of prostitution carry both legal and personal weight. A single allegation can create lasting damage to reputation, relationships, and employment, even before the case is resolved. In Columbus, these cases are often handled swiftly by the Vice Unit and local prosecutors, leaving little time to react. Having an attorney who ensures your side of the story is heard and your rights are protected is critical from the very start.

Since 2000, Funkhouser Law has represented individuals across Franklin County with fairness and discretion. Our work begins with the presumption of innocence and a commitment to making sure the facts are presented clearly and completely. We approach each case with respect for the person behind it and focus on protecting rights, reputations, and opportunities for the future.

Request your free, confidential consultation with a prostitution lawyer in Columbus. Call (614) 756-2154 or contact us online.

A Defense Built on Insight, Discretion, & Credibility

Prostitution cases are unlike most criminal charges. They require not only legal strategy but also sensitivity, judgment, and credibility with both the court and the prosecution. Funkhouser Law stands out because we understand how these cases move through the Columbus system — and how to manage them respectfully and effectively.

Advantages of retaining us include:

• Tenacity and experience of a former prosecutor. Founding attorney Douglas A. Funkhouser served as a U.S. Army prosecutor before establishing the firm in 2000. That experience gives our team valuable perspective on how law enforcement builds its cases and how prosecutors assess evidence.
• Established relationships within Franklin County courts. Decades of practice have built trust and familiarity with local judges, prosecutors, and diversion program administrators, allowing us to pursue realistic and effective resolutions.
• A reputation for discretion and professionalism. Sensitive cases require privacy. Our firm protects client information, manages communications carefully, and handles every step with confidentiality.
• A 24/7 line of communication. Clients receive direct access to their attorney for updates, questions, and timely guidance as their case develops.

Convenient, Confidential Legal Support in Columbus

Our office is located on South High Street in Columbus, just minutes from the Franklin County Municipal Court and the Franklin County Common Pleas Court, where many prostitution-related cases are heard. This proximity allows our attorneys to respond quickly to court filings, hearings, and client needs throughout the legal process.

Funkhouser Law offers free initial consultations for anyone facing prostitution charges in Central Ohio. Meetings can be held in person at our Columbus office or virtually, providing the privacy and flexibility clients often need during sensitive situations. Every consultation is confidential and focused on giving you a clear understanding of your rights, your options, and the next steps in your defense.

Understanding Ohio’s Prostitution Law (ORC § 2907.22)

Definition of Prostitution

• Engaging in sexual activity for hire

Overview

Former Ohio law prohibited any promiscuous intercourse, but today, payment must be involved for the activity to be considered illegal. The current law reaches further and prohibits any paid sexual activity — not just intercourse. Only those offering services can be convicted under this Ohio law, but customers may face charges of complicity. Ohio courts have recently focused on rehabilitation as part of the judicial response to these cases.

The Columbus Police Vice Unit frequently investigates potential prostitution offenses, leading to arrests and criminal charges — sometimes after only one encounter. Undercover operations in Franklin County often move quickly, requiring the accused to navigate questioning and booking without delay. 

Because police and prosecutors may interpret Ohio Revised Code § 2907.22 differently, minor details can significantly affect the type and severity of charges. In addition to defending against prostitution allegations, Funkhouser Law also represents individuals accused of Compelling Prostitution and Promoting Prostitution, both serious offenses under Ohio law. Knowing how local law enforcement and courts handle each of these charges helps our Columbus attorneys identify defense opportunities at the earliest stage.

Potential Penalties

Under Ohio Revised Code § 2907.22, prostitution is generally charged as a third-degree misdemeanor. While the offense may seem minor, the consequences can reach far beyond the initial fine or jail term.

Possible court-imposed penalties include:

• Up to 60 days in jail
• A fine of up to $500
• Probation or community control, depending on the case
• Mandatory participation in rehabilitation or education programs, if ordered by the court

In Franklin County Municipal Court, judges often consider factors such as prior history, cooperation, and willingness to seek counseling or treatment. For first-time offenders, the court may offer diversion or intervention programs that can lead to reduced penalties or, in some cases, dismissal after successful completion. Beyond the courtroom, a prostitution conviction can cause difficulties with employment, housing, and background checks. 

Funkhouser Law works to minimize these long-term effects by highlighting rehabilitation efforts, negotiating alternative sentencing options, and advocating for fair treatment throughout the process.

Common Defense Strategies for Prostitution Charges

Defending against a prostitution charge in Columbus requires a careful look at how the investigation unfolded and whether the evidence supports the accusation. Funkhouser Law conducts a full review of the case from the first police interaction to the prosecutor’s filing decision, identifying procedural or factual issues that can shape the defense.

Key defense strategies often include:

• Entrapment. Many prostitution cases in Columbus stem from undercover Vice Unit operations. If law enforcement encouraged or pressured someone to engage in conduct they would not have otherwise considered, it may qualify as entrapment.
• Lack of Agreement. Ohio law requires evidence of a clear offer or agreement for sexual activity in exchange for payment. Ambiguous statements or incomplete conversations often fail to meet this threshold.
• Unlawful Search or Seizure. If police searched a person, vehicle, or property without a valid warrant or probable cause, any resulting evidence may be excluded from court.
• Insufficient or Unreliable Evidence. Body camera footage, text messages, or surveillance recordings are not always conclusive. Inconsistent testimony or unclear audio can create reasonable doubt.
• Mistaken Identity or Miscommunication. In busy public settings, mistaken identity or unclear intent can result in wrongful accusations.

Prostitution arrests in Franklin County often arise from quick, high-pressure stings that produce limited documentation. Our attorneys analyze each piece of evidence for accuracy and compliance with Ohio law.

FAQs

How do police investigate suspected prostitution?

Columbus police often use plainclothes officers and surveillance to investigate suspected prostitution, especially in areas identified as high risk. These investigations can involve quick arrests, sometimes using undercover operations handled by the Vice Unit.

What happens after an arrest for prostitution?

After an arrest, the accused is usually booked at a local precinct and receives a court date at Franklin County Municipal Court. Some individuals may be eligible for local intervention programs or diversion options, especially if they have no prior record.

Can a prostitution charge be resolved without a conviction?

Charges may be resolved through diversion or similar programs in Columbus, particularly for first-time offenders who demonstrate a commitment to positive change. These alternatives depend on the specific circumstances of the case and current court practices.

At Funkhouser Law, from the moment a client walks through the door, we presume that they are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. As such, we work hard to accomplish the most favorable outcome for each of our clients. 

If you have been accused of prostitution, please call (614) 756-2154 for a free consultation with a compassionate and seasoned lawyer.