567.020. Prostitution — penalty — no certification as an adult, when.
It’s illegal to trade sex for money or anything of value in Missouri.
This law makes it a crime to offer or take part in sex for money. There are tougher penalties in some cases and special rules for minors.
1. A person commits prostitution if they agree to or engage in sexual activity with someone in return for anything of value.
2. Prostitution is usually a class B misdemeanor. But if the person knew they had HIV before doing the act, it becomes a class B felony. Using condoms does not count as a legal defense.
3. “HIV” means the virus that causes AIDS.
4. A judge can order someone convicted of prostitution to enter a drug or alcohol treatment program.
If they complete the program:
- For a class B misdemeanor, the judge may cancel the conviction.
- For a class B felony, the conviction stands, but the judge can consider treatment during sentencing.
5. If the person was under 18 at the time, they won’t be charged as a criminal. Instead, they are treated as a victim of abuse and reported to Missouri child welfare and juvenile officers for services and support.
Contact us online or call (314) 900-HELP to talk with a Missouri criminal defense lawyer.
