Prostitution Defense Lawyer in Austin, Temple, & Georgetown Texas

According to Texas Penal Code § 43.02 – 43.06, the definition of prostitution includes offering or agreeing to receive payment from another to engage in sexual conduct. Charges of prostitution can be difficult to navigate. If you are accused of prostitution, you need a prostitution lawyer in central Texas to represent you.

Many people believe sex must occur in order to be charged with prostitution, but that is not the case. In Texas you can be charged with prostitution regardless of whether you are accused of buying or selling sex.

An accusation of prostitution is serious it can leave a felony on your record. If you have been charged with prostitution, I can help you with your case. Call The Law Office of Eric Harron to get a free consultation with an experienced prostitution defense attorney in Texas.

Prostitution Crimes in Texas

Prostitution is more than just exchanging sex for money. In Texas, there are three main types of prostitution crimes.

Solicitation of Prostitution

A person commits an offense if the person knowingly offers or agrees to pay a fee to another person for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct with that person or another. This is a new offense in Texas that is a felony.

Prostitution

An individual can be charged with prostitution when sexual conduct is offered in place of payment or return of fee. Prostitution can also be charged when sexual conduct is based on receiving a fee or payment. Sting operations commonly target individuals who are looking to buy or sell sexual favors.

Compelling Prostitution

In Texas, an individual can be charged with compelling prostitution if they force another to commit prostitution through threat or force, or knowingly make a child under the age of 18 commit prostitution.

Pimping/Managing a Prostitution Group

Pimping/managing a prostitution ring includes an individual that acts other than a prostitute, but still earns profits from providing prostitution services.

Don’t let a felony ruin your future. If you are accused of prostitution, get a prostitution lawyer in Texas. Call us for a free consultation!

Possible Defenses Against Prostitution

When it comes to defending a prostitution charge, you need a strong defense attorney in Texas that you can trust. The Law Office of Eric Harron will fight to reduce or eliminate your charges completely.

Some of the most common defenses to prostitution are:

  • Entrapment (sting operations)
  • No agreement was formed between the parties
  • Duress
  • Lack of Evidence
  • Due Process

There are ways to fight your case, so it is important to know your rights and speak with a prostitution defense attorney as soon as possible. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.

Prostitution Penalties in Texas

There is a wide range of penalties when it comes to prostitution in Texas. We broke down the definition for each charge, so you can have an idea of what to expect.

  • Class B Misdemeanor – Prostitution If no aggravating factors are present
    • Up to 180 days in jail, fine of up to $2,000.
  • Class A Misdemeanor – If the accused has 1 or 2 previous prostitution charges
    • Up to 1 year in jail, fine of up to $4,000.
  • State Jail Felony – If the individual solicits prostitution. Or, If the accused has 3 or more previous prostitution charges
    • 6 months to 2 years in a state jail facility, fine of up to $10,000.
  • Third Degree Felony – If the individual has a prior conviction for solicitation of prostitution and commits a subsequent offense.
    • Up to 10 years in prison, fine of up to $10,000.
  • Second Degree Felony – If the accused solicited prostitution from a minor
    • 2 to 20 years in prison, fine of up to $10,000.
  • First Degree Felony – If the accused runs a prostitution ring where atleast 1 person was a minor
    • 5 years to life in prison, fine of up to $10,000.

Prostitution is not taken lightly in Texas. For that reason it is important to contact a prostitution defense attorney to get the representation you deserve. Fill out the form and schedule your free consultation with Eric Harron today!