Are Escorts Legal In Texas? A Guide on Prostitution Laws

Published Sept 20, 2021

In Texas, United States, some laws condemn a prostitute, their John, and their Madam to face a trial that would, later on, result in imprisonment and even prosecution. Thus, the degree of condemnation varies depending on the prostitute, the John, or the Madam and the action you have conducted that caused you to face legal charges.

An Example of Law-Breaking Prostitution Encounter

Marcel is a 25-year-old male who drives a pick-up truck as he wanders the busy street of Houston, Texas. After going a mile or so, he noticed a female named Marina waving at his car as she wore extremely revealing clothes.

Then, Marina entered the vehicle. Afterward, Marcel asked Marina about his rate when it comes to acquiring the services she offered. Marina, then, answered $500.

Although no sexual interaction has been verbalized in the occurrence, best believe that such action can be a prime cause of their legal charges. Keep in mind that prostitution is illegal in Texas, which shows that such action is grave misconduct that will cause them to stand on the court.

It is easy for the judge or the prosecutor to condemn such actions by simply using the words “they met,” for it is a prime indicator that something around prostitution will occur during the two’s meet-up. 

Hence, even if they do not claim the misguided action — as long as the female receives money from their counterpart — it is considered prostitution.

Moreover, promoting prostitution in the country is indeed a threat to your welfare. If you have been guilty of receiving money from various individuals who would like to experience the stated service, best believe that you promote the unwanted action and may opt to face charges.

Classification of Prostitution Charges in Texas

There are various classifications when it comes to the degree of conviction and punishment that will be served on the individuals involved in the misconduct. A few of which are: 

1. Class B Misdemeanor — If the prostitute and their John have been convicted for the first time. The two parties will only face 180 days imprisonment and a fine of $2,000.
2. Class A Misdemeanor — This demeanor can be faced by the prostitute, their John, their Madam, and even the pimps who support such action. The result of this misconduct may lead to a fine of $4,000 and 365 days of imprisonment. 
3. Third Degree Felony — If the people involved have been found guilty of charges for the third time, this classification will be served on their plate. As a result, the ones convicted may serve ten years in jail and are obliged to pay a fine of $10,000. 
4. Second Degree Felony — If a manager or a Madam has been found guilty of handling prostitutes below 18 years of age. The condemned may opt to face six to two years imprisonment with a fine of $10,000.
5. First Degree Felony — If a Madam handles two prostitutes and the other is not legal age. Therefore, they may opt to face five to ninety-nine years of life imprisonment with a fine of $10,000.

Child Care Protection Against Prostitution in Texas

It is inevitable that with the financial scarcity one may face, they tend to sell their soul to the devil to sustain their family’s needs and wants. Thus, they may opt to use their underage children and task them to engage in misconduct to earn big money.

Remember that despite the grave punishment that the court may opt to give to those who manage prostitutes at the right age, best believe that the offense given to those who handle minors may reach an unprecedented level.

The Tex. Penal Code § 20A.02, § 43.25, §§ 22.011, .021 and §§ 43.03, .05 are the ones that tackle the consequences that may be given to the offender. Thus, the grave offense that will be given to those managing prostitutes who are not of legal age is equivalent to those given to managers who are forcing individuals to take part in prostitution. 

Nonetheless, if you tend to encounter or have close ties with individuals who tend to have legal charges regarding the matter, best believe that seeking a top-notch lawyer is a must to win the case.