What qualifies as solicitation in Missouri?

Under Missouri law, solicitation typically involves offering, agreeing to, or requesting sexual conduct in exchange for money or something of value. This can apply to both the person making the offer and the person being solicited. The act doesn’t have to be completed—the intent and the communication can be enough to bring charges. Interactions that occur in person, through phone calls, or via digital platforms like texts, emails, or chat rooms may all be considered solicitation.

Is solicitation a misdemeanor or felony?

Solicitation is generally charged as a misdemeanor in Missouri. However, it can be elevated to a felony if aggravating factors are present. These include prior solicitation or prostitution convictions, solicitation of a minor, or solicitation occurring near a school or church. Felony convictions carry significantly steeper penalties, including longer jail time, higher fines, and the long-term impact of a criminal record.

Can I be charged with solicitation for texting or chatting online?

Yes. Missouri courts treat online communication, such as text messages, social media chats, or other digital exchanges, as valid evidence of solicitation. Even if no physical meeting took place, a clear offer or arrangement made electronically can lead to criminal charges. Law enforcement often uses sting operations on online platforms to identify and arrest individuals suspected of solicitation.

What if I was entrapped by law enforcement?

Entrapment is a possible defense in solicitation cases. If law enforcement officers or undercover agents persuaded or pressured you into committing a crime you were not predisposed to commit, it may qualify as entrapment. Working with The Watt & Young Law Firm, your solicitation attorney in Kansas City will thoroughly review communication records and sting operation procedures to determine if your rights were violated and whether an entrapment defense is appropriate.

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Protecting Your Rights After a Solicitation Charge

Being accused of solicitation in Kansas City can be devastating—legally, professionally, and personally.

At The Watt & Young Law Firm, we know how sensitive these charges are and how damaging they can be, even if you were falsely accused or misidentified. Our experienced defense team handles solicitation cases with discretion and a firm commitment to due process. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony charge, we fight to protect your reputation and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

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Our goal is to resolve your case favorably and without public exposure, through negotiations or pre-trial solutions.

DUI/DWI

City v. Sullivan

Case dismissed on the morning of trial.
Misdemeanor

City of Raytown v. Higgins

Defendant acquitted of domestic assault after bench trial on the matter.
DUI/DWI

City v. Baptiste

Defendant found "not guilty" of second DUI after bench trial on the matter.
DUI/DWI

City v. Cowan

Defendant found "not guilty" after bench trial on the matter.
Misdemeanor

City v. Vincent

Defendant charged with Fleeing/Eluding a Law Enforcement Officer. She was found not guilty after bench trial on the matter.
Misdemeanor

State v. White

Defendant found not guilty of assault after bench trial on the matter.
Misdemeanor

State v. Montgomery

"Not guilty" after bench trial (DUI).

DUI/DWI

State v. Luethje

Case dismissed.
Felony

State of MIssouri v. Sherman

Burglary First Degree (B Felony) - Amended to Trespass (B Misdemeanor) after heavily litigating a diminished capacity defense.
Felony

State v. Aguilar

Acquittal by jury on all counts: rape first degree, sodomy first degree, and sexual abuse first degree.
DUI/DWI

State v. Blessing

Defendant found "not guilty" after bench trial on the matter.
Misdemeanor

State v. Garlington

Defendant charged with DUI in State Court. Defendant found not not guilty after bench trial on the matter.
Felony

State v. Jones

Defendant charged with felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Acquittal by jury.
Felony

State v. Whitley

Defendant charged with Rape First Degree and Sodomy First Degree. After jury trial on the matter, the jury ultimately hung. Case was later resolved with probation.
Misdemeanor

State v. Nicholas

Defendant found not guilty of assault after bench trial on the matter.
DUI/DWI

State v. Metzger

DUI dismissed.

Tough on Charges, Thoughtful With Clients

At The Watt & Young Law Firm, we deliver aggressive legal defense backed by experience and driven by results—always with respect for your privacy.

We have secured dismissals and reduced charges for clients facing solicitation offenses, often by identifying procedural errors or challenging undercover operations. Home to a leading solicitation attorney in Kansas City, our firm prioritizes outcomes that keep cases out of public courtrooms when possible and help clients avoid long-term consequences.

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Additional Resources

What Counts as Prostitution

Prostitution involves exchanging sex for value. It’s common but often misunderstood—and the legal consequences in Kansas and Missouri are serious.

Kansas City Prostitution Criminal Charges

What Will Happen if I’m Arrested?

If the police have arrested you or someone you know, or if you expect arrest, understanding the process can lessen the stress and prepare you for what comes next.

What will happen if I’m arrested?

Plea Bargaining FAQs

TV shows like to suggest that every case goes to trial. In reality, most end in plea bargains. Let us help you understand what to expect.

Plea Bargaining F.A.Q’s

Solicitation Attorney Kansas City

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