By definition, an escort is a person who keeps someone company in exchange for payment. The person paying is known as a client. Escorts may accompany their clients to dates or events. They may also see clients without ever leaving their home or hotel room. Clients can hire an escort on a per-day basis or for longer periods.
An escort’s services may or may not include sexual services. However, in many cases, the term escort is a more acceptable and legally vague term referring to a type of sex worker. By calling someone an escort, providers skirt anti-prostitution laws in many states and countries. When escorts provide sexual services, these services may or may not include sexual intercourse.
Even when escorts provide sexual services, they may not face prosecution in places where sex work is illegal. Clients pay escorts for their company, not sex. So they may be able to escape charges on this technicality depending on the facts surrounding their case. However, they should seek legal advice. Escorts don’t usually solicit people in the same manner as sex workers. Clients typically contact escorts or their agencies directly.
An escort can work freelance, through a pimp, or under an escort agency. Generally, working under an agency is the safest option as agencies are bound by laws and regulations. Working freelance or through a pimp may expose escorts to sexual abuse and sexually transmitted diseases.