Legal Definitions - prostitute

A prostitute, also referred to as a sex worker, is an individual who performs sexual acts in exchange for money as an occupation. It is crucial to understand that this definition applies specifically to situations where an adult voluntarily engages in such acts as their profession. Legally, if sexual acts for money involve coercion, a minor, or are solely for the financial benefit of a third party, the individual is considered a victim of sex trafficking, not a person engaging in sex work as an occupation.

Here are some examples illustrating the term:

• Example 1: David, an adult, independently advertises his services online, setting his own rates and scheduling appointments with clients. He considers this activity his primary profession and manages all aspects of his work and earnings.

  Explanation: This illustrates a prostitute as an individual who voluntarily performs sexual acts for money as an occupation, managing his own work and compensation without coercion or third-party exploitation.

• Example 2: In a jurisdiction where sex work is legal and regulated, Elena works at a licensed establishment. She provides sexual services to clients who pay the establishment, and she receives a portion of the earnings as her salary, operating under a formal employment structure.

  Explanation: This demonstrates the concept within a regulated environment, highlighting the occupational aspect where an individual performs sexual acts for payment as a structured form of employment, consistent with the definition of a prostitute.

• Example 3: A teenager is held captive and forced by an organized crime group to engage in sexual acts with various individuals. The money earned from these acts is entirely collected by the crime group, and the teenager receives no benefit and is unable to leave.

  Explanation: This scenario, while involving sexual acts for money, does not describe a prostitute. Instead, it illustrates a victim of sex trafficking because the individual is coerced, is a minor, and the acts are for the sole monetary benefit of a third party (the crime group), not as a voluntary occupation. This distinction is crucial in legal definitions.