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 Virginia, prostitution is illegal and is defined as engaging in, offering, or agreeing to engage in sexual acts for money or other consideration. The relevant laws are found in the Virginia Code, specifically under sections dealing with crimes involving morals and decency. Solicitation of prostitution is also a criminal offense in Virginia. This includes soliciting for oneself or another person, as well as promoting or compelling prostitution. The terms 'pimping' and 'pandering' refer to activities where individuals derive profit from the prostitution of another person, and these acts are also illegal under Virginia law. The penalties for prostitution and related offenses can include fines, imprisonment, and mandatory education or community service programs. The severity of the punishment often depends on the specific circumstances of the crime and the individual's criminal history.