Texas Penal Code 43.031 – Online Promotion of Prostitution

Name: Trey Porter Law
Brand: Trey Porter Law
Rating: 5 (150 reviews)

FAQ HUB

/ Felony Charges

/ Texas Penal Code 43.031 – Online Promotion of Prostitution

3 MIN READ

Texas Penal Code 43.031 – Online Promotion of Prostitution

WHAT IS ONLINE PROMOTION OF PROSTITUTION IN TEXAS?

The Texas law against online promotion of prostitution prohibits posting classified ads for sexual services in exchange for a fee. In response to websites such as Backpage and Craigslist’s “adult services” section, the Texas Legislature enacted laws against online promotion of prostitution.

WHAT IS THE ONLINE PROMOTION OF PROSTITUTION LAW IN TEXAS?

Tex. Penal Code § 43.031. ONLINE PROMOTION OF PROSTITUTION.

(a) A person commits an offense if the person owns, manages, or operates an interactive computer service or information content provider, or operates as an information content provider, with the intent to promote the prostitution of another person or facilitate another person to engage in prostitution or solicitation of prostitution.

(b) An offense under this section is a felony of the third degree, except that the offense is a felony of the second degree if the actor:

(1) has been previously convicted of an offense under this section or Section 43.041; or

(2) engages in conduct described by Subsection (a) involving a person younger than 18 years of age engaging in prostitution, regardless of whether the actor knows the age of the person at the time of the offense.

WHAT IS THE PENALTY CLASS FOR ONLINE PROMOTION OF PROSTITUTION IN TEXAS?

Online promotion of prostitution is a third degree felony, punishable by two to ten years in prison. It becomes a second degree felony, punishable by two to 20 years in prison, if: (1) the accused has a prior conviction for online promotion of prostitution or aggravated online promotion of prostitution; or (2) the prostitute promoted is younger than 18 years old.

WHAT IS THE PUNISHMENT RANGE FOR ONLINE PROMOTION OF PROSTITUTION IN TEXAS?

The punishment range for online promotion of prostitution charged as a third degree felony is two to ten years in prison, and a maximum fine of $10,000. If charged as a second degree felony, it carries between two and 20 years in prison, and up to a $10,000 fine.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR ONLINE PROMOTION OF PROSTITUTION IN TEXAS?

A person charged with online promotion of prostitution may be eligible for probation after a conviction, or deferred adjudication without a conviction, for a period not to exceed ten years.

WHAT ARE THE DEFENSES TO ONLINE PROMOTION OF PROSTITUTION IN TEXAS?

The statute does not authorize specific defenses to online promotion of prostitution. A person accused thereof may attempt to negate one of the elements the State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.

What if the accused did not know the prostitute was a minor? Even if the accused does not know a prostitute is under 18, the online promotion of prostitution statute specifically precludes a person from arguing he or she lacked knowledge of the child’s age. Advertising prostitution services for a person under 18 is a second degree felony, punishable by two to 20 years in prison.

WHAT IS THE STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS FOR ONLINE PROMOTION OF PROSTITUTION IN TEXAS?

The limitation period for online promotion of prostitution is three years.

ONLINE PROMOTION OF PROSTITUTION IN TEXAS

In the effort to combat human sex trafficking, Texas lawmakers created specific prohibitions against online advertising of erotic services in 2019. Prior to enactment of these statutes, prostitution ads were punishable as promotion of prostitution or aggravated promotion of prostitution.

Did like a post? Share it with:

REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION

If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, it’s time to start building your defense.

Texas Health & Safety Code Offenses 481.115 – Possession of Substance in Penalty Group 1 or 1-B

Texas Penal Code 71.023 – Directing Activities of Criminal Street Gangs

Texas Penal Code 38.14 – Taking or Attempting to Take Weapon From Peace Officer, Federal Special Investigator, Employee or Official of Correctional Facility, Parole Officer, Community Supervision and Corrections Department Officer, or Commissioned Security Officer

Let's Get Legal on YouTube!

Tune In for Legal Tips, Laughs, and Learning

Explore More Legal Adventures: Discover Related Posts

Discover Related Posts

Am I eligible for a 12.44 Reduction?

Section 12.44 of the Texas Penal Code (12.44 reduction) allows defendants charged with...

DWI 3rd+ Offense in Texas

After two DWI convictions, a third DWI offense (habitual DWI) is...

Texas Penal Code 20.04 – Aggravated Kidnapping

WHAT IS AGGRAVATED KIDNAPPING IN TEXAS? Kidnapping becomes aggravated kidnapping when...

Texas Penal Code 15.01 – Criminal Attempt

WHAT IS CRIMINAL ATTEMPT IN TEXAS? The Texas law against criminal...

Texas Penal Code 15.02 – Criminal Conspiracy

WHAT IS CRIMINAL CONSPIRACY IN TEXAS? Texas law prohibits criminal conspiracy,...

Texas Penal Code 15.03 – Criminal Solicitation

WHAT IS CRIMINAL SOLICITATION IN TEXAS? The Texas law against criminal...

Explore Our Legal Categories

constitutional rights

CRIMINAL CHARGES

DRIVER'S LICENSES

DWI CHARGES

EXPUNGEMENT

FELONY CHARGES

MISDEMEANOR CHARGES

PROBATION

Testimonials

What our clients think about us

M. Adams

Exceptional Defense Attorneys and firm.
I had the pleasure of being represented by Trey Porter Law. Attorney Joseph Strickland worked with me directly and was wit me at every court appearance and I couldn't be more satisfied with the outcome. From the outset, they set clear expectations on how they could help me avoid jail time for my DWI charge.

What truly stood out was their unwavering support throughout the entire process. They were always accessible, promptly addressing any questions I had. Ms. Aisley would answer my call and respond to my questions on the spot. This was especially crucial when my school and potential employers raised concerns about my pending charges. Joseph Strickland provided guidance on how to navigate these external challenges, showcasing their commitment to their clients beyond the courtroom.

Their professionalism, transparent communication, and dedication to my case made a significant impact, and I am grateful for the positive resolution they achieved. I highly recommend Trey Porter Law Firm for anyone in need of a skilled and supportive defense attorney and team.

C. Pollock

After a search of attorneys in my area I sought out Trey Porter Law Firm, impressed by the detailed information provided on the website and resounding client endorsements. From the introductory phone call, direct meeting, subsequent calls/emails/texts, and throughout my court appearance and disposition, all dealings have been exceptional. Everyone on the team has been friendly and responsive, while still being highly professional. I also very much appreciate the proactive approach taken throughout my case.

J. Givens

Mr. Porter an amazing attorney, he help me get through my situation swiftly and professionally as well as save me time and money in the process. Working with Mr. Porter was a pleasure, he kept me well informed and updated throughout the whole process which made things so much easier for me to understand. Mr. Porter and his team took the stress out of stressful situation. Mr. Porter and his team was always easy to contact and return my phone calls and emails promptly. I cannot give enough praise to Mr. Porter and his team. I had another attorney in the beginning who wad basically going to railroad me. I would definitely recommend Mr. Trey Porter again and again. If you’re looking for a great attorney who is affordable and knowledgeable and will fight for you, Trey Porter is the attorney to choose. Definitely a five star attorney.

J. Franklin

Trey and his staff are great and make sure to help you with all your questions to get through the process. Trey worked out the best outcome for my issue and got me an opportunity to get my charge expunged. Trey and his team made a negative experience end on a positive note. Truly recommend this law firm for your legal issues.

J. McKibbon

I would like to thank Trey Porter and his team regarding my DUI case. I truly could not have expected a better outcome regarding my case. This outcome only happened because of his expert knowledge and dedication to his profession. Trey really took time to explain every step of the process to me which really helped me make critical decisions on how to proceed. I am lucky to have come across his name and will only refer people to Mr. Porter regarding DUI offenses. Trey, I want to thank you publicly. Your expert handling of my D.U.I. got my case reduced to an outcome I was very pleased with. Nothing against my driving record, no loss of license and I’m positive this wouldn’t have turned out so well without you. Thanks for your hard work, empathy and responsiveness it really meant a lot to me.

R. Valdez

We hired Trey Porter to assist us last year. From the initial consultation up to and including the court hearing, Trey had a straight forward approach to the situation at hand. He explained everything along the way and was available at any time to discuss/answer any questions we had either by phone/text/email. With his experience and professionalism, we obtained the best outcome possible. We would highly recommend Trey Porter with no hesitation whatsoever. Five stars is definitely not enough!

B. Cantu

I highly recommend Trey Porter! He is very professional and attentive to each situation at hand. He does not beat around the bush. Straight forward and explains things very well. Easy to work with. Contacts you before you have to ever contact him. Detailed oriented. Driven to get you the best deal possible in your situation. Him and his staff were absolutely amazing for my situation. Thank you!

B. Patel

Trey is a phenomenal attorney that gets the job done right! He is dedicated to help his clients. He made himself available and answered all my concerns immediately! I had faith in him and he continued to prove his expertise by helping me. I highly recommend Trey Porter!!

D. Lopez

Mr. Porter was exceptional! He answered all my questions, was thorough throughout my case. Really pushed to go above and beyond to get us the results we were needing. Excellent professional service and as a professional I can definitely say I recommend him.

C. Jef

100/100
Excellent experience with Mr Porter and TPL law offices. They fought for me and they won! I hired Mr Porter after an embarrassing incident. My license and employment were on the line. The office had excellent communication and personal service — even through text message! Totally recommend Trey Porter 100/100!

T. Royal

5 STAR!
I hired Mr. Porter to represent my son in a DUI case. I was worried a conviction would ruin his future. Mr. Porter and the whole office were friendly, thorough, and poised throughout. They respond to text and calls almost instantly. We are just finishing the expunction process after the case was dismissed!!! I am grateful to Mr. Porter and recommend him to one and all. Excellent from start to finish. Thank you TPL!

A. Renaud

Winning
I won with Attorney Trey Porter! Had a criminal DWI .15 charge, small accident, but no injuries. This was my first criminal charge of my life. Mr. Porter was great to talk to — as was the entire office staff and other attorneys. Everyone was SO NICE! 9 long months passed and my charge was dismissed. No probation. No conviction. This experience was well worth the money. I recommend Trey Porter, Attorney at Law.

Unlock the Perks of Choosing Us!

CHARGES DISMISSED

DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED .15

Driving facts involved failing to maintain a single lane and speeding. Client refused breath test and forced law enforcement to obtain search warrant for blood. Blood test result was not used after challenge from Defense, and State waived and abandoned charge.

CHARGES DISMISSED

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

Client was a college student, worried about the collateral consequences of an alcohol offense. After negotiation and review of the traffic stop, the case was dismissed. Client received no criminal conviction. The charge was later expunged and deleted from client’s record.

CHARGES DISMISSED

DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED .15+

Client was involved in minor accident. Client was at fault in accident. A young executive, client was concerned that a criminal conviction for DWI would result in termination. After review of the traffic stop, it was clear the officer lacked probable cause for arrest.

CHARGES DISMISSED

DWI 2ND

Client, a military veteran, was facing up to one year in jail. State could not prove intoxication by alcohol, and was prepared to proceed on loss of use by marijuana. After challenging the State to prove that marijuana was ingested at or near time of driving, and that marijuana impaired client’s driving, the State dismissed the case on the day of trial.

CHARGES DISMISSED

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

Driving facts involved a false claim by police that taillight was out. After challenging the reasonable suspicion for the traffic stop, the State was forced to dismiss the case when video did not match police report. Client has since expunged arrest, and has no criminal record.

CHARGES DISMISSED

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

Client is a public school teacher and faced immediate termination upon conviction. The facts of the case were bad. State was unwilling to budge in negotiation, and matter was set for trial – the last shot at avoiding a conviction and preserving client’s livelihood. State was forced to dismiss on day of trial. Client has no criminal record, and has since expunged the DWI arrest.

Request
a free consultation

Contact Trey Porter Today

The stakes are high. Criminal charges can have devastating, lifelong consequences. During the free, confidential consultation, Mr. Porter will answer questions surrounding your legal matter, and discuss and identify potential defenses.

Contact Trey Porter Today

Request a free consultation