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 Tennessee, prostitution is illegal and is defined as engaging in, promoting, or soliciting sexual activity in exchange for money or other consideration. Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-13-513, prostitution is a Class B misdemeanor for a first offense, which can result in up to six months in jail and/or a fine. Repeat offenses can lead to more severe penalties. The law also criminalizes the actions of pimps and others who promote or profit from prostitution, such as pandering, promoting, or compelling prostitution. These offenses can range from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class C felony, depending on the circumstances, such as the involvement of a minor or the use of force, and can result in significant fines and imprisonment. The specific statutes addressing these crimes are found in the Tennessee Code, typically within the sections dealing with sexual offenses and criminal acts.