If you were arrested for prostitution or solicitation of prostitution in Pasadena, it’s important to understand what you’re facing and how to protect your future. These charges are taken seriously by local prosecutors and can have lasting consequences, even for a first offense. At Ceja Law Firm, we help clients throughout Harris County—including Pasadena—fight back against prostitution-related charges with strategic, discreet, and experienced legal representation.
Why Choose Ceja Law Firm?
Attorney Jose Ceja is a former prosecutor and Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization—an achievement held by fewer than 5% of Texas attorneys. He has successfully defended clients charged with prostitution, solicitation, and other sex-related offenses across the Houston area, including many cases in Pasadena. If you’ve been arrested in a sting or accused after a misunderstanding, Ceja Law Firm can provide aggressive, confidential legal help focused on clearing your name and protecting your record.
Prostitution & Solicitation Laws in Pasadena, Texas
In Texas, prostitution and solicitation of prostitution are separate offenses—but both can result in serious penalties.
Prostitution (Texas Penal Code § 43.02)
This charge applies to the seller of sex. A person can be charged with prostitution if they knowingly offer or agree to engage in sexual conduct for a fee.
Solicitation of Prostitution (Texas Penal Code § 43.021)
This charge applies to the buyer of sex. Under Texas law, it is now a state jail felony for a first offense—a significant shift from previous misdemeanor treatment.
You can be charged even if no money changes hands. A conversation, online message, or text that indicates a transaction can be enough to lead to an arrest—particularly during Pasadena police stings, which frequently target both buyers and sellers through undercover operations.
Common Prostitution Arrest Scenarios in Pasadena
Prostitution-related arrests in Pasadena often arise from:
- Online stings (e.g., Backpage, Craigslist, Tryst, Skip the Games)
- Massage parlor raids
- Street-level undercover operations in high-traffic areas or hotels
- Reverse stings, where undercover officers pose as sex workers
If you were arrested in one of these operations, the evidence against you may be weak or misleading—especially if no actual sexual conduct took place or if communication was unclear.
Consequences of a Conviction
The penalties for prostitution and solicitation vary depending on the offense and prior history:
Prostitution (as the seller):
- First offense: Class B misdemeanor (up to 180 days in jail and a $2000 fine)
- With prior convictions: Can be enhanced to Class A misdemeanor or state jail felony
Solicitation (as the buyer):
- First offense: State jail felony (6 months to 2 years in state jail and up to $10,000 fine)
- With prior convictions: Can be enhanced to a third-degree or second-degree felony
Additional consequences:
- A permanent criminal record
- Immigration consequences, especially for non-citizens
- Embarrassment and loss of reputation
- Difficulty with employment, housing, or licenses
Defending Prostitution Charges in Pasadena
Every case is different, but Ceja Law Firm explores every legal and factual defense available. Possible defenses include:
- Entrapment: Police induced conduct that would not have otherwise occurred
- Lack of intent: Misunderstood communication or no agreement to engage in sexual conduct
- Insufficient evidence: Weak recordings, unclear texts, or non-specific agreements
- Suppression of illegally obtained evidence: If police violated your rights during the investigation or arrest
Many prostitution and solicitation cases can be resolved discreetly without a trial—and in some cases, without a public record at all.
Can You Keep a Prostitution Arrest Off Your Record?
Yes—depending on how your case is resolved. You may qualify for:
- Expunction (if your case is dismissed or you are acquitted or if you otherwise qualify)
- Non-disclosure (if you receive deferred adjudication and successfully complete it)
Ceja Law Firm regularly assists clients in Pasadena and the Houston area in sealing their record or expunging a prostitution arrest.
Arrested for Prostitution in Pasadena? Contact Us Today.
If you’ve been charged with prostitution or solicitation of prostitution in Pasadena, don’t wait to get legal help. The earlier you involve a skilled criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of protecting your future.
Ceja Law Firm offers free, confidential consultations. Call today to speak directly with a Board-Certified criminal defense attorney and start building your defense.
