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 Indiana, prostitution and related activities are criminal offenses under the state's penal code. Prostitution is defined as performing, agreeing to perform, or offering to perform sexual acts in exchange for money or other property. This includes any touching of the genitals, pubic area, or buttocks of one person by another for the purpose of sexual gratification, in exchange for something of value. Solicitation of prostitution, which involves requesting, commanding, or attempting to induce another person to engage in prostitution, either on one's own behalf or on behalf of someone else, is also illegal. Additionally, promoting prostitution, which can include activities such as pimping, pandering, or procuring, is a criminal offense. This encompasses receiving money or other property from the earnings of the prostitution of another person, or facilitating or controlling the activities of a person engaged in prostitution. The specific charges and penalties for prostitution and related offenses can vary based on the circumstances of the case, including the age of the individuals involved and prior criminal history.