Navigating the legalities of escorting can be a daunting task, especially with the fine line separating escort services from prostitution. To shed light on this complex issue, we interviewed Mr. Shanon Gray, a criminal defense attorney at Gray Law in Portland, OR, who specializes in cases involving prostitution and other related offenses. This article will provide you with key insights and practical tips to help you stay on the right side of the law.

Understanding Jurisdiction and General Guidelines

Q: What jurisdiction does your advice apply to?

Mr. Gray: My advice is specific to the State of Oregon. Laws regarding escort services and prostitution vary widely across different states. Generally, prostitution is regulated at the state level, and federal involvement typically arises only in cases of sex trafficking or when activities cross state lines involving significant sums of money.

Q: Are there general guidelines across the United States?

Mr. Gray: Each state has its own set of laws governing prostitution and escort services. Most offenses are not federal unless they involve trafficking or substantial interstate operations. Familiarize yourself with your state’s specific regulations to ensure compliance.

Practical Legal Tips for Escorts

Q: Does asking a client “Are you a police officer?” help in any way?

Mr. Gray: Asking a client if they are a police officer is not a reliable method of protection. A law enforcement officer is unlikely to disclose their identity. Instead, focus on other preventative measures to ensure legality.

Q: How effective is having a disclaimer in an ad stating “I offer escort services and not prostitution services”?

Mr. Gray: While a disclaimer might provide some defense in court, it’s not foolproof. A disclaimer can support your case by showing you are attempting to operate within legal boundaries, but the presence of additional evidence, such as testimonies or other interactions, could still lead to legal trouble.

Q: Does having a client sign a contract stating “Payment is for my services as an escort only and not for sex” offer protection?

Mr. Gray: Contracts can lend the impression of operating a legitimate business. However, using language like “and not for sex” might imply an expectation of sexual services. It’s better to focus on clear, professional agreements without potentially problematic terms.

Q: Is there a recommended way to handle money transactions to minimize legal exposure?

Mr. Gray: Accepting money directly from a client can make it challenging to argue against the notion of an illegal transaction if sex is involved. Conversely, placing money on a table might appear suspicious. It’s advisable to manage financial transactions in a manner consistent with professional business practices, minimizing direct cash handling in ambiguous situations.

Q: What should an escort do if a client suddenly reveals they are a police officer during a session?

Mr. Gray: If approached by law enforcement, do not make any statements. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney immediately. Police may use various tactics to obtain information, and cooperating later, under legal counsel, is usually a better approach than speaking without representation.

Additional Insights and Advice

Q: Is there anything else escorts should know?

Mr. Gray: Prostitution is illegal, but escort services are legal and can be a profitable business if conducted correctly. Operate your business transparently and professionally to avoid drawing unnecessary attention. Being clear about the services you offer and managing client expectations can help maintain legal safety.

Conclusion

Establishing your escort services as a legitimate business is crucial for avoiding legal trouble. Discretion, professionalism, and adherence to legal advice are key. If you find yourself in a challenging situation, seeking professional legal counsel is essential for navigating potential issues effectively.

For more information on managing your business legally, check out resources like Scarlet Alliance, which offer support and advocacy for sex workers.