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 Nebraska, prostitution and related activities are criminal offenses under the Nebraska Revised Statutes. Specifically, under Section 28-801, a person commits the crime of prostitution if they perform, offer, or agree to perform any sexual activity with another person in exchange for money or something of value. The law also criminalizes the solicitation of prostitution, which means asking someone to engage in sexual activity for compensation, as well as promoting or facilitating prostitution, which can include activities like pimping or pandering. These offenses are typically classified as misdemeanors, but certain circumstances, such as promoting prostitution of a minor, can result in more severe felony charges. The exact penalties for prostitution-related crimes can vary based on the specific nature of the offense and any prior criminal history.