Prostitution is not legal in Las Vegas or Clark County, Nevada, contrary to popular belief.
However, it is legal in certain rural counties of Nevada, under specific circumstances, such as in state-licensed brothels.
Currently, it is legal in 10 of Nevada’s 17 counties, with only 21 state-licensed brothels in operation throughout Nevada.
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If you are facing charges related to prostitution, it is important to seek legal representation from experienced criminal defense attorneys.
You need to find defenders who have the knowledge, skill, and experience to provide an aggressive defense against charges of prostitution.
Penalties for Engaging in Prostitution in Nevada
Nevada law defines prostitution (NRS 201.295) as engaging in sexual conduct, which includes intercourse, oral-genital contact, or any touching of the sexual organs or intimate parts of a person, in exchange for a fee, monetary consideration, or other thing of value.
As an alleged customer attempting to solicit a prostitute in Nevada (NRS 201.354):
- For a first offense, you will be charged with a misdemeanor, which carries a jail sentence of up to 6 months in county jail and/or up to $1,000 fine, plus an additional fine of $400, and a civil penalty of not less than $200. If dismissed, sealing of records may take place immediately. If convicted, one year after conclusion of the case.
- For a second offense, you will be charged with a gross misdemeanor, which carries a jail sentence of up to 1 year in county jail and/or up to $2,000 fine, plus an additional fine of $800, and a civil penalty of not less than $200. If dismissed, sealing of records may take place immediately. If convicted, two years after conclusion of the case.
- For a third or subsequent offense, you will be charged with a gross misdemeanor, which carries a jail sentence of up to 1 year in county jail and/or up to $2,000 fine, plus an additional fine of $1,300, and a civil penalty of not less than $200. If dismissed, sealing of records may take place immediately. If convicted, two years after conclusion of the case.
As an alleged customer attempting to solicit a child (under 18) in Nevada:
- For a first offense, you will be charged with a Category E felony, which carries a sentence of 1 to 4 years in Nevada State Prison and/or up to $5,000 fine. If dismissed, sealing of records may take place immediately. If convicted, no sealing of records is available.
- For a second offense, you will be charged with a Category D felony, which carries a sentence of 1 to 4 years in Nevada State Prison and/or up to $5,000 fine. If dismissed, sealing of records may take place immediately. If convicted, no sealing of records is available.
- For a third or subsequent offense, you will be charged with a Category C felony, which carries a sentence of 1 to 5 years in Nevada State Prison, and up to $10,000 fine. If dismissed, sealing of records may take place immediately. If convicted, no sealing of records is available.
As an alleged prostitute attempting to solicit a customer in Nevada:
- You will be charged with a misdemeanor, which carries a jail sentence of up to 6 months in jail and/or $1,000 fine.
As an alleged prostitute who knows they have HIV, attempting to solicit a customer in Nevada:
- You will be charged with a Category B felony, which carries a sentence of 2 to 10 years in Nevada State Prison and/or up to $10,000 fine.
Where and Under What Circumstances is Prostitution Legal in Nevada?
Prostitution is legal in Nevada on a county by county basis, if the county population does not exceed 700,000, and then only in state-licensed brothels.
Employees in state-licensed brothels must be at least 18 years of age, have work cards, work of their own free will, and must submit to regular medical examinations to detect HIV and other STD’s, and must use condoms.
A legal brothel may not be located within 400 yards of a school or church and may not face a main street.
Outside of these specific locations and circumstances, soliciting a prostitute or practicing prostitution is subject to legal penalties in Nevada.
Who Could Provide an Aggressive Defense Against Charges of Prostitution?
If you have been charged with the criminal offense of soliciting, either as an alleged customer or provider, call a qualified lawyer to discuss your potential case.
Remember, the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt remains on the prosecution in such cases.
