Criminal Solicitation Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Criminal solicitation in New Kent County is a serious felony under Virginia law, defined as asking, commanding, or encouraging another person to commit a crime. A conviction can lead to years in prison and a permanent felony record. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing these charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Criminal Solicitation
Criminal solicitation is governed by Va. Code § 18.2-29. The statute makes it a crime to command, entreat, or otherwise attempt to persuade another person to commit a felony or a Class 1 misdemeanor. The offense is complete the moment the solicitation is made; the other person does not need to agree or take any action. The penalty for solicitation is tied to the crime solicited. If you solicit a felony, you face the same punishment as if you had committed that felony. Soliciting a Class 1 misdemeanor is itself a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting and information systems provides an advantage in cases involving complex evidence.
Local Court Process and Defense Strategy
Felony criminal solicitation cases in New Kent County begin with an arrest and a bond hearing at the New Kent County General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes these cases, which are often built on digital evidence like text messages, emails, or social media communications. A strong defense requires a detailed review of this evidence and the context of the alleged communication. For a criminal solicitation lawyer New Kent Virginia, the goal is often to challenge the intent behind the words or to negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge that avoids a felony conviction.
- Arrest and bond hearing at New Kent County General District Court.
- Preliminary hearing to determine probable cause for the felony charge.
- Case is certified to New Kent County Circuit Court if probable cause is found.
- Pre-trial motions and discovery review, focusing on digital evidence.
- Plea negotiations or trial preparation.
- Resolution through dismissal, plea agreement, or trial.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Solicitation
In New Kent County, criminal solicitation penalties mirror those of the crime solicited, ranging from a misdemeanor with jail time to a felony with years in prison.
| Offense Solicited | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 Misdemeanor | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Criminal record |
| Class 6 Felony (e.g., Larceny) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months jail) | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Class 5 Felony (e.g., Aggravated Sexual Battery) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Class 2 Felony (e.g., Murder) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | None typically | Felony record, loss of rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have handled thousands of criminal cases across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington, D.C. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of local court procedures and prosecutor strategies. For criminal charges defense, we examine every detail of the evidence and the circumstances surrounding the allegation. Our defense lawyer team includes former prosecutors who know how the other side builds a case. We focus on protecting your rights and future from the moment you contact us.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients. In New Kent County and surrounding areas, we have secured dismissals, charge reductions, and not-guilty verdicts in a variety of criminal matters. While every case is unique, our systematic approach to building a defense aims for the best possible result. For criminal court lawyer representation, we prepare thoroughly for every hearing and trial. Secondary attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including a former contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, brings additional depth to our defense team for complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Solicitation Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts. We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We provide legal representation for individuals in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is criminal solicitation in Virginia?
It is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-29. The crime involves asking, commanding, or encouraging someone else to commit a felony or a Class 1 misdemeanor. The punishment is the same as for the crime you asked someone to commit.
Can I be charged if the other person said no?
Yes. The crime is complete when the solicitation is made. The other person does not need to agree, and the crime does not need to be carried out. The prosecution only needs to prove you attempted to persuade them.
What evidence is used in solicitation cases?
Prosecutors often use text messages, emails, social media messages, or recorded conversations. They must prove your intent to solicit a specific crime. A strong defense examines the full context of the communication to challenge the alleged intent.
Is solicitation a felony or misdemeanor?
It depends on the crime you are accused of soliciting. Soliciting a felony is a felony. Soliciting a Class 1 misdemeanor is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The classification directly determines the potential penalties you face.
What should I do if I am charged?
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone. An attorney can protect your rights, analyze the evidence against you, and begin building your defense strategy for court.
Related Legal Information
For more information on Virginia criminal law, you can review the official statutes at the Virginia Law Portal. Information about the New Kent County court can be found on the Virginia Courts website.
If you need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, or are looking for representation in a related area like DUI, our firm can help. For a broader view of our sex crimes defense practice, visit our Virginia sex crime defense hub. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
New Kent is one part of a statewide practice, and our page on criminal solicitation lawyer Virginia covers the process from start to finish.