In Minnesota, prostitution can be charged as a misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or misdemeanor, depending on the facts of the case.
Misdemeanor prostitution can be charged when:
- A person engages in prostitution with an individual who is 18 years or older, or
- person is hired, offers to be hired, or agrees to be hired by an individual who is 18 or older.
Gross misdemeanor prostitution can be charged when:
- An individual has a previous conviction for prostitution within the past two years, or
- An individual engages in prostitution while acting as a patron, or
- An individual offers or agrees to engage in prostitution in a public place.
Felony prostitution can be charged when:
- A person engages in prostitution with an individual under the age of 18 years, or
- A person hires or offers or agrees to hire an individual under the age of 18 years to engage in sexual penetration or sexual contact.
As with all areas of criminal law, there are many nuances when it comes to prostitution. If you are facing criminal charges or worried that charges may be forthcoming, reach out to one of our attorneys to discuss your options.