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 Colorado, prostitution is illegal under state law. A person commits the crime of prostitution if they engage in, offer to engage in, or agree to engage in any sexual act in exchange for money or other consideration. This includes any sexual contact or intercourse. The law also criminalizes the acts of soliciting, arranging, or offering to arrange a situation where prostitution can take place, which can apply to both the person seeking the services and any intermediaries. Additionally, Colorado law prohibits pimping, pandering, and keeping a place of prostitution, which targets those who promote or profit from the prostitution of others. These offenses can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the specific circumstances and whether it involves promoting the prostitution of a minor, which is a more serious offense. Penalties can include fines, imprisonment, and mandatory public service.