Maine Prostitution and Solicitation Laws

In Maine, it's illegal to both buy and to sell sexual acts or sexual contact. In other words, both prostitution and solicitation are illegal. This article provides a brief overview of Maine's prostitution and solicitation laws.

Solicitation of Prostitution

In Maine it is also illegal to solicit prostitution. In other words, it is a crime to pay (or offer to pay) someone else in exchange for a sexual act or sexual contact. The penalty for soliciting prostitution in Maine is up to six months in jail, and/or a fine of up to $1,000. However, if the offender has one or more prior convictions for engaging in prostitution (or a substantially similar crime) within the last two years, then the violation is a Class D crime.

There are also increased penalties for soliciting prostitution from minors and from people who are mentally disabled.

• If the offender solicits prostitution from someone who is less than 18 years old, then the crime if a Class D offense.
• If the offender knows that the prostitute is less than 18 years old, then the solicitation is a Class C crime.
• If the offender solicits prostitution from someone who suffers from a mental disability that is reasonably apparent or know to the offender and prevents that person from appraising the nature of the conduct, then the offense is a Class C crime.

Penalties in Maine

• Class C crimes: Punishable by up to five years in prison, and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
• Class D crimes: Punishable by imprisonment for up to one year, and/or a fine of up to $2,000.
• Class E crimes: Punishable by up to six months in jail, and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

Additional Resources

• Sex Crimes
• The Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act

State laws change frequently. For case specific information about Maine's prostitution and solicitation laws contact a local sex crime lawyer.