In today’s digital world, escort services can be found with just a few clicks. But in Maryland, understanding the line between legal companionship and illegal prostitution is crucial—especially if you’re hiring, working as, or associated with an escort. Here’s what you need to know about Maryland escort laws and how a Southern Maryland criminal lawyer can help if you’re facing charges.
Are Escort Services Legal in Maryland?
Yes—escort services are legal in Maryland as long as they do not involve sex or sexual acts for money. Escorts can legally offer non-sexual companionship for events, dinners, or other social settings. This includes acting as a date or providing conversation and company, without engaging in any sexual conduct.
However, once an escort service involves or suggests the exchange of sex for money, it crosses into criminal territory. Maryland law strictly prohibits any form of prostitution or solicitation.
Understanding Maryland’s Prostitution and Solicitation Laws
The relevant laws under Maryland Criminal Code include:
- Prostitution – § 11-306: It is illegal to engage in or offer to engage in sexual activity for money or anything of value.
- Solicitation – § 11-307: It is a crime to solicit another person for prostitution, including through online ads, phone calls, or direct offers.
These laws apply regardless of whether money is exchanged directly or through a third party like an escort agency or website.
What Happens If You’re Caught?
Penalties for prostitution or solicitation in Maryland are typically classified as misdemeanors, but they can carry serious consequences:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Fines up to $500
- Probation and a criminal record
- Sting operation arrests can lead to public exposure, loss of employment, and social stigma
Repeat offenders, or those involved in managing escort services that involve prostitution, may face harsher sentencing and even felony-level charges depending on the circumstances.
Law Enforcement Tactics in Southern Maryland
Counties like Prince George’s, Charles, Calvert, and St. Mary’s are known for proactive policing around prostitution offenses. Law enforcement often uses sting operations by posing as escorts or clients to catch suspects in the act. These stings frequently happen via websites or apps where escort services are advertised.
It’s also not uncommon for police to monitor text messages, undercover meetings, or hotel activity to build their case. If you’re caught up in one of these operations, it’s important to know that what you say or text can be used against you—even if the act never occurred.
Common Defenses to Escort-Related Charges
Being charged does not mean you are guilty. A skilled Southern Maryland criminal lawyer may raise several defenses, including:
- Entrapment – if law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you otherwise wouldn’t have
- Lack of intent – if you never intended to exchange money for sex
- Ambiguous communication – if the conversation was misinterpreted or lacked clarity
- No completed act – if there was no follow-through on any alleged agreement
An experienced attorney will evaluate every aspect of your case—from text message logs to police conduct—to protect your rights and seek a dismissal or reduction of charges.
Contact a Southern Maryland Criminal Lawyer Today
Whether you’re facing charges for solicitation, prostitution, or managing an escort operation, don’t face the justice system alone. The consequences can be life-altering—but a smart, strategic legal defense can make all the difference.
At Southern Maryland Criminal Defense, we handle these cases with discretion, experience, and a deep understanding of how Maryland law works in practice. We serve clients in Charles County, Calvert County, St. Mary’s County, and Prince George’s County.
Schedule a confidential consultation today to get the help you need.
