Expert: Dan Pepper - 12/29/2008

Question
Hello Dan,

I've been reading some of the great answers you've given other people asking business questions about the adult industry. How do I find Missouri's laws on producing adult films? If my business complies with the laws, would I be safe using standard contracts and forms when it comes to models and crew or do the contracts have to be specific to the state?

I have an agreement with a company out of California as a scout but I'm looking to do a few things on my own abd promote promote promote to achieve the most success possible. Please let me know what I can do.

Thanks,

Answer
Missouri does not have specific laws in this area.  However, you can view Missouri's prostitution laws at http://prostitution.procon.org/viewbackgroundresource.asp?ResourceID=746

Of note is the definition of prostitution, which indicates that a person patronizes prostitution if:

   (a) Pursuant to a prior understanding, he gives something of value to another person as compensation for that person or a third person having engaged in sexual conduct with him or with another; or

   (b) He gives or agrees to give something of value to another person on an understanding that in return therefor that person or a third person will engage in sexual conduct with him or with another; or

   (c) He solicits or requests another person to engage in sexual conduct with him or with another, or to secure a third person to engage in sexual conduct with him or with another, in return for something of value;

I cannot provide you with legal advice in this forum, so this text is for informational purposes only.

I do not know how or where you plan on soliciting your talent, so depending on how you do so, the Missouri may not apply to your activities.

As always, you should ALWAYS retain qualified legal counsel to advise you before you step one foot into this industry.  There are far too many ways to get yourself into serious trouble.