A conviction for prostitution - which is considered a sex crime - carries a significant stigma that can follow you for the rest of your life.
There are stereotypes associated with this crime. Many people still picture drug-addicted women walking the streets in skimpy outfits and living in questionable motels and answering to a pimp. In modern times, this stereotype is largely untrue. A significant amount of sex work has moved online, with independent prostitutes booking their own appointments and screening potential clients. Yet, if you are convicted of prostitution, you may not be able to escape this stereotype.
Prostitution is quite often a crime of desperation in an economy that is notoriously difficult for young people. Unfortunately, having a criminal record can close off opportunities for economic advancement, as many schools and employers are reluctant to accept a candidate with this crime on their record.
You do not need to be "caught in the act" to be arrested for prostitution in Texas. Merely offering to engage in a sexual act in exchange for some type of compensation can quickly lead to an arrest.
However, "offers" can easily be misinterpreted by law enforcement officers, and the definition of prostitution can be interpreted quite loosely. Legal sex workers often find themselves accused of prostitution while attempting to carry out a lawful activity. Dancers employed in strip clubs are frequent targets for sting operations and investigation by undercover police officers. A dancer may intend to offer a legally-compliant private dance, only to have her words misinterpreted as an offer for illegal sexual activity.
