Generally speaking, prostitution is considered illegal in all forms. Like all illegal activities, there is still a market for prostitution regardless of its legality. This could end in punishment for those who are involved in the prostitution market. However, each state has its own specific set of laws that determines how that particular area handles cases of prostitution.

In Pennsylvania, those who are charged with prostitution could be facing a third degree misdemeanor charge. This is defined by the Pennsylvania General Assembly. A prostitute in this state is defined either as someone who works in a house, club or other physical location that functions as a hub for sexual activity. A prostitute could also be someone who tries to engage customers on the street or in any other public location with the intent of being paid for sexual activities.

Those who promote prostitution could face either a misdemeanor charge or a felony charge depending on their level of involvement. A person is considered to be promoting prostitution if they own a house of prostitution or operate a business, either by themselves or with partners. Those who either find prostitutes or find locations for prostitutes to work from fall under this category as well. Also in this category are people who match up prostitutes with customers, and people who actively encourage others to become prostitutes or discourage them from leaving prostitution.

Lesser known is the fact that children of prostitutes or other people who are supported by a prostitute’s income can technically be charged with promoting prostitution as well. Obviously, people who solicit the services of prostitutes are also considered complicit.

Essentially, no matter what area of prostitution a person is involved in, they could possibly face criminal charges if their involvement is discovered.