Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed June 20, 2016
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In Hawaii, prostitution laws make it a crime to engage in, or offer to engage in, sexual acts for compensation. Additionally, solicitation laws make it a crime not only to sell sexual acts, but also to buy (or offer to buy) sexual acts. This article provides a brief overview of Hawaii's prostitution and solicitation laws.
Code Section |
Hawaii Revised Statutes section 712-1200: Prostitution |
What's Prohibited? |
Engaging in, agreeing to engage in, or offering to engage in sexual conduct with another person for a fee. |
Definition of "Sexual Conduct"
|
"Sexual conduct" means sexual penetration, deviate sexual intercourse, or sexual contact.
|
Exception |
This statute doesn't apply to any member of a police department, a sheriff, or a law enforcement officer acting in the course and scope of their duties. |
Penalties |
Prostitution is a petty misdemeanor that is generally punished by a fine of $500, and may be sentenced to imprisonment for up to 30 days. |
In Hawaii, it is also a crime to promote prostitution. A person commits the crime of promoting prostitution by knowingly:
Code Section |
Hawaii Revised Statutes section 712-1207: Street Solicitation of Prostitution |
Street Solicitation of Prostitution
|
It is illegal for any person while on any public property to:
|
Penalties |
Engaging in solicitation is a petty misdemeanor and is punishable by at least 30 days on jail. |
State laws change frequently. For case specific information regarding Hawaii's prostitution and solicitation laws contact a local criminal defense lawyer.
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