Blog Post
Penalties for Soliciting Prostitution in Texas
3/21/2026
Texas imposes strict penalties for solicitation offenses, and charges can escalate depending on prior history and surrounding circumstances.
State Jail Felony (Standard Charge)
Solicitation of prostitution is generally charged as a state jail felony, even for a first offense. Penalties may include:
180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility
A fine of up to $10,000
This classification reflects the state’s increasingly aggressive stance toward solicitation-related crimes.
Enhanced Charges for Prior Offenses
If the accused has prior convictions for solicitation or similar offenses, the charge may increase to a third-degree felony, which carries:
2 to 10 years in prison
A fine of up to $10,000
Texas law allows enhancements based on prior criminal history, including certain cases that resulted in probation or deferred adjudication.
Solicitation of a Minor
Soliciting someone under 18 years old carries significantly harsher consequences.
This offense is typically charged as a second-degree felony, punishable by:
2 to 20 years in prison
A fine of up to $10,000
Importantly, the law does not require proof that the accused knew the individual was under 18. Lack of knowledge of age is generally not a defense.
Additional Aggravating Factors
Certain circumstances can elevate the severity of a solicitation charge:
Proximity to a school (within 1,000 feet)
Occurrence during a school-sponsored event
Prior related offenses
If an aggravating factor applies, the offense may be enhanced to the next higher felony level. For example, a state jail felony may be increased to a third-degree felony.
Long-Term Consequences
Beyond incarceration and fines, a solicitation conviction can result in:
A permanent criminal record
Employment and licensing difficulties
Reputational harm
Immigration consequences for non-citizens
Because solicitation charges often depend heavily on interpretation of conversations and intent, building a strong legal defense early is critical. A knowledgeable defense attorney can examine the circumstances of the arrest, evaluate potential constitutional issues, and work to minimize the long-term impact of the accusation.
Arlington Criminal Attorneys
3901 Arlington Highlands Blvd, Suite 200
Arlington, TX 76018