Bryan Prostitution Defense Attorney

Prostitution Charges in Texas

Prostitution is a criminal offense in the state of Texas, punishable by jail time and fines. If you are accused of this crime, you should hire a skilled criminal defense attorney right away, as your future could be in jeopardy.

At The Law Office of Jay Granberry, we defend clients in Bryan, TX, and the surrounding areas who have been accused of prostitution, as well as related offenses, such as promoting prostitution (also known as “pimping” or pandering), soliciting, or compelling prostitution. Attorney Jay Granberry is Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, meaning he has the experience and expertise to aggressively advocate for you.

Contact our firm today for a confidential consultation; call (979) 353-6632 or reach us online using our secure contact form.

What Is Considered Prostitution in Texas?

Broadly speaking, prostitution is the act of engaging in sexual activity in exchange for money or other goods. In Texas, prostitution is more clearly defined as knowingly engaging in or offering to engage in sexual activities or conduct for a fee. Soliciting someone in a public place for sexual activities or conduct is also considered prostitution in the state of Texas.

How Is Prostitution Charged in Texas?

Prostitution is a crime in Texas, even if all involved parties consent to the activity. It can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances of the crime.

Here are some examples of how prostitution may be charged in Texas:

• Class B Misdemeanor: Without aggravating factors, prostitution and solicitation are typically charged as Class B misdemeanors in Texas.
• Class A Misdemeanor: Prostitution and solicitation may be charged as Class A misdemeanors if the suspect has been convicted once or twice before for either crime, or if the suspect is charged with promoting prostitution (pimping).
• State Jail Felony: You could face state jail felony charges if you have been convicted three or more times before for prostitution or solicitation, or if you have been convicted at least once before for promoting prostitution.
• Third-Degree Felony: In Texas, you may be charged with a third-degree felony if you are accused of controlling, financing, managing, or owning any type of prostitution enterprise that has at least two prostitutes.
• Second-Degree Felony: Second-degree felony charges typically arise when the solicited person is under the age of 18 or when the alleged perpetrator believed the solicited individual was under the age of 18. Promoting prostitution of someone under 18 or compelling someone under the age of 18 to engage in prostitution can also result in second-degree felony charges.
• First-Degree Felony: You could face first-degree felony charges if you are arrested for controlling, financing, managing, or owning a prostitution enterprise with at least two prostitutes and at least one is under the age of 18.

Regardless of the nature of the charges you face, you could face jail time, fines, and probation if you are convicted of probation. If you are a repeat offender, you could be charged with a felony and face much harsher penalties.

What Are the Penalties for Prostitution in Texas?

The penalties for prostitution can depend on the circumstances of the crime and the criminal history of the defendant, among other factors.

Some possible penalties for a prostitution conviction in Texas include:

• First-time offenders: If you are convicted of prostitution as a first-time offender, you could be charged with a Class B misdemeanor. A Class B misdemeanor is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. You may also be required to pay court costs and probation fees.
• Repeat offenders: If you are convicted of prostitution as a repeat offender, you could be charged with a Class A misdemeanor or a felony. Class A misdemeanors come with possible penalties of up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $4,000 in Texas. Felonies have much harsher prison sentences—anywhere from 2 years to life in prison, depending on the type of felony charged and other factors.

How Our Prostitution Defense Attorney Can Help

If you are charged with prostitution, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you fight your charges and protect your rights.

Depending on the circumstances of your situation, your attorney can help you utilize certain defenses to prostitution, including:

• Lack of knowledge
• Entrapment
• Intoxication
• Duress
• No fee/money exchanged

Our Bryan prostitution defense attorney can investigate your case and determine which witnesses and evidence to challenge. We can also negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf to try to get charges reduced or dismissed. If necessary, we are ready to take your case to trial.

At The Law Office of Jay Granberry, we are ready to fight for you and your rights. We have handled numerous cases and have a thorough understanding of the Texas criminal justice system. We know how to navigate the legal system and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

If you have been charged with prostitution, do not hesitate to contact our Bryan prostitution defense lawyer. Call us at (979) 353-6632 or contact us online today.