Prostitution Charges in Dallas, TX
Texas law treats prostitution-related offenses seriously, imposing strict penalties that can impact your freedom, reputation, and future opportunities. Whether you are accused of engaging in prostitution, soliciting, promoting, or compelling prostitution, you need an experienced Dallas prostitution lawyer who understands the legal system and will fight to protect your rights.
At the Law Office of Mike Howard, we handle all types of prostitution-related charges and will work to build a strong defense tailored to your case. If you are facing these allegations, call (214) 296-2221 to schedule a 30-minute case evaluation.
What is Prostitution Under Texas Law?
Prostitution-related charges can cover a wide range of offenses. Under Texas Penal Code Chapter 43.02, a person can be charged with prostitution or related offenses for various actions, including selling sexual services, purchasing them, or profiting from prostitution.
Some prostitution-related criminal charges include:
Prostitution (Engaging in or Soliciting Sexual Services)
A person commits prostitution if they:
- Knowingly offer or agree to receive a fee in exchange for engaging in sexual conduct.
- Knowingly offer or agree to pay a fee to engage in sexual conduct with another person.
Solicitation of Prostitution
This charge is specific to those offering payment for sexual services. Solicitation of prostitution does not require the act to occur—simply making an offer or agreement can result in charges.
Promotion of Prostitution (Pimping)
A person commits promotion of prostitution if they:
- Receive money or other property as part of an agreement to share in the proceeds of prostitution.
- Solicit another person to engage in sexual conduct with a third party for compensation.
Aggravated Promotion of Prostitution
If a person owns, manages, or financially controls a prostitution enterprise that involves two or more individuals engaging in prostitution, they can be charged with aggravated promotion of prostitution.
Compelling Prostitution (Forcing or Coercing Someone into Prostitution)
Compelling prostitution is one of the most serious prostitution-related charges in Texas. A person can be charged if they:
- Use force, threats, coercion, or fraud to make someone engage in prostitution.
- Cause a minor under the age of 18 to engage in prostitution, even if they were unaware of the person’s age.
Penalties for Prostitution-Related Charges in Texas
The severity of penalties depends on the specific charge and whether the accused has prior convictions.
Prostitution & Solicitation of Prostitution
- First offense: Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
- Second offense: Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
- Third or more offenses: State jail felony, punishable by six months to two years in state jail and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Soliciting a person under 18: Second-degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Promotion of Prostitution (Pimping)
- First offense: Third-degree felony, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Second offense or involving a minor: Second-degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison.
Aggravated Promotion of Prostitution
- Managing or controlling a prostitution ring with two or more individuals: First-degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Compelling Prostitution
- Forcing someone into prostitution: First-degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Causing a minor (under 18) to engage in prostitution: Automatically a first-degree felony, regardless of whether the accused knew the person’s age.
Defending Against Prostitution Charges in Dallas
Just because you have been accused does not mean you will be convicted. You have the right to defend yourself, and an experienced prostitution defense lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s case.
Challenging the Evidence
Law enforcement must provide solid evidence that the alleged offense occurred. This includes undercover operations, surveillance footage, or witness testimony. A defense attorney can challenge:
- The validity of police reports and testimony.
- Whether there was sufficient evidence to support the charge.
- The credibility of informants or witnesses.
Entrapment Defense
In many prostitution cases, law enforcement conducts sting operations where undercover officers pose as prostitutes or buyers. If police pressured or coerced you into committing a crime you would not have otherwise committed, entrapment may be a valid defense.
Lack of Intent or Misunderstanding
A person may be falsely accused due to misinterpretation of conversation or mistaken identity. If no agreement was clearly made or money was not exchanged, the prosecution’s case may be weak.
Violation of Your Rights
If police conducted an unlawful search, failed to read your Miranda rights, or obtained evidence illegally, your attorney may be able to get the case dismissed.
FAQs about Texas Prostitution Charges
Can a Prostitution Charge Be Expunged in Texas?
Expungement is possible only if your case was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or you completed a diversion program that allows for record sealing. If convicted, prostitution charges generally cannot be expunged, but some individuals may qualify for a non-disclosure order to limit public access to their records.
Can I Be Charged With Solicitation If No Money Was Exchanged?
Yes. An agreement or offer to exchange money for sexual conduct is enough to face solicitation charges, even if no payment was made or the act did not occur. The prosecution must prove intent and that a clear agreement was reached.
Do I Have to Register as a Sex Offender for a Prostitution-Related Conviction?
Most misdemeanor prostitution or solicitation charges do not require sex offender registration. However, felony charges, especially sex crimes involving minors or compelling prostitution, can lead to mandatory registration as a sex offender in Texas.
Why Choose Mike Howard as Your Defense Attorney?
At the Law Office of Mike Howard, we believe that defending a criminal case is about more than just fighting charges—it’s about protecting your future. Our approach includes:
- Personalized Defense Strategies – Every case is unique. We tailor our defense based on your specific situation.
- Clear Communication – We ensure you understand your options and the legal process.
- Aggressive Representation – Whether negotiating for a dismissal or fighting at trial, we will not back down.
Contact a Dallas Prostitution Defense Lawyer Today
A prostitution charge can have long-term consequences on your life, including criminal penalties, damage to your reputation, and restrictions on employment. You do not have to face these charges alone.
At the Law Office of Mike Howard, we are committed to providing aggressive and strategic defense for clients accused of prostitution-related offenses. We will fight for your rights and work toward the best possible outcome.
Call (214) 296-2221 or fill out our online form for a confidential case evaluation.
