Criminal Defense Sex Offenses
Prostitution
Prostitution charges in Texas carry consequences that go well beyond fines and jail time. They can affect employment, housing, and reputation for years. Under Texas Penal Code § 43.02, it is illegal to offer or agree to engage in sexual conduct for a fee, or to solicit another person in a public place for sexual conduct. Todd Rash provides experienced, discreet defense for clients facing prostitution charges throughout North and Central Texas.
Texas Law Penal Code § 43.02
A first prostitution offense is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine. A second offense is a Class A misdemeanor. A third offense is a state jail felony. If the defendant has been convicted three or more prior times, the offense becomes a third-degree felony. Charges are elevated significantly if the conduct involves a minor or occurs in connection with trafficking.
Sting Operations and Entrapment
Many prostitution arrests result from undercover law enforcement operations. Officers may pose as clients or as individuals offering services. These operations raise legitimate questions about entrapment, improper inducement, and whether the defendant was predisposed to commit the offense or was led into it by law enforcement conduct. Todd Rash examines every aspect of how the arrest was made.
Protecting Your Record
For first-time offenders, there may be options to avoid a permanent criminal record through deferred adjudication or other pretrial diversion programs. Todd Rash explores every available avenue to minimize the long-term impact of a prostitution charge on his clients' lives.
Potential Penalties
- › 1st offense: Class B misdemeanor up to 180 days in jail, $2,000 fine
- › 2nd offense: Class A misdemeanor up to 1 year in jail, $4,000 fine
- › 3rd offense: State jail felony (180 days to 2 years
- › 4+ offenses: 3rd-degree felony (2 to 10 years in prison
- › Elevated charges if a minor is involved
Possible Defenses
- › Entrapment by law enforcement
- › No agreement or offer was made
- › Mistaken identity
- › Insufficient evidence
- › Improper arrest or search procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
Facing Prostitution charges?
Todd Rash has a proven record defending clients throughout Texas. Call now for a free consultation.
Free Consultation(817) 808-2247Understanding the Cost of a Sex Offense Defense
Sex offense cases are among the most complex and resource-intensive in criminal law. Attorney fees are typically on par with murder and other serious felony charges a reflection of the time, preparation, and expertise required.
An effective defense often requires retaining outside experts: polygraph examiners, licensed psychologists for psychosexual evaluation, private investigators, and information technology professionals. These expert fees are separate from attorney fees and are the responsibility of the client.
Todd Rash will be straightforward with you about anticipated costs from your very first consultation.