A person generally commits the crime of prostitution by engaging in sexual contact or offering to engage in sexual contact in exchange for money or other consideration.

It is also a criminal offense to solicit (on a person's own behalf, or on behalf of another person), promote, or compel prostitution. For example, most states have laws that make it illegal to buy, sell, or profit from prostitution—which is generally the business of pimps and other human traffickers—known as pimping, pandering, procuring, soliciting, promoting, or compelling prostitution.

Prostitution laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.

In Arizona, prostitution is illegal and is considered a misdemeanor offense under state law. According to Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) §13-3214, a person commits the crime of prostitution by engaging in, offering to engage in, or agreeing to engage in sexual conduct with another person in exchange for a fee, or if the person knowingly solicits, entices, or induces another person to engage in prostitution. The law also criminalizes the actions of those who facilitate or promote prostitution, such as pimps and traffickers, under ARS §13-3209 and §13-3212, which address pandering, receiving earnings from prostitution, and keeping a house of prostitution. Penalties for prostitution and related offenses can include fines, jail time, and mandatory education programs. Repeat offenses can lead to more severe penalties, including felony charges for certain circumstances, such as when the offense involves a minor.