Criminal Solicitation Defense in Albemarle County, Virginia
Criminal solicitation in Albemarle County is a serious felony under Virginia law, defined as asking, inducing, or encouraging another person to commit a crime. As a criminal solicitation lawyer Albemarle Virginia, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands the severe penalties, which can include years in prison and a permanent felony record.
Last verified: April 2026 | Albemarle County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Criminal Solicitation
Criminal solicitation is governed by Va. Code § 18.2-29. This 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, even if the other person never agrees or the crime is never attempted. The law is designed to prevent crimes before they occur by penalizing the act of encouraging criminal conduct. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this deep understanding of statutory intent to build defenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-29 (official Virginia General Assembly). For local court procedures, visit the Albemarle County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Solicitation Charges
In Albemarle County, a criminal solicitation case typically begins with an arrest or summons. The case is first heard in the Albemarle County General District Court for a preliminary hearing or arraignment. Given the serious nature of these felony charges, prosecutors from the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office for Albemarle County often pursue them aggressively. A skilled criminal court lawyer must immediately work to challenge the evidence of intent and communication.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or charge.
- Attend the initial hearing (arraignment) at Albemarle County General District Court.
- Your attorney will file pre-trial motions, potentially to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- If the case proceeds, negotiate with the prosecutor or prepare for a trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Solicitation
In Albemarle County, criminal solicitation carries penalties that match the crime solicited, including significant prison time and fines.
| Offense Solicited | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felony | Same as felony solicited | 1 year to life, depending on crime | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of rights |
| Class 1 Misdemeanor | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, possible probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Legal Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, our team brings substantial knowledge to every case. Our approach is grounded in a detailed understanding of Virginia’s criminal statutes and local court procedures.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. While specific results for every charge cannot be guaranteed, our focused strategy aims to protect our clients’ rights and futures. For criminal charges defense in Albemarle, having an experienced team is critical. Attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including former death penalty certification, contributes significant trial experience to our defense efforts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Albemarle County Location
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges in Albemarle County courts. We are accessible via I-64 and represent individuals in Charlottesville, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden. If you need a criminal solicitation lawyer Albemarle Virginia, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 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. It involves asking, encouraging, or trying to persuade someone else to commit a felony or a Class 1 misdemeanor. The crime is complete upon the solicitation, regardless of whether the other person acts.
Can I be charged if the person I asked said no?
Yes. Under Virginia law, the offense of criminal solicitation is committed the moment you make the request or encouragement. The other person’s refusal or the crime’s non-completion does not negate the charge, though it may be a factor in defense or sentencing.
What are the defenses to a solicitation charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include lack of intent, entrapment by law enforcement, insufficient evidence that a specific crime was solicited, or challenging the authenticity of communications used as evidence. A criminal attorney can evaluate the best approach.
Is solicitation a felony?
Yes, if you solicit a felony, the solicitation itself is treated as a felony punishable as if you had committed the crime. Soliciting a Class 1 misdemeanor is itself a Class 1 misdemeanor. The penalties are severe and require an aggressive defense.
Why do I need a lawyer for a solicitation charge?
These charges are complex and carry life-altering penalties. A defense lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, protect your constitutional rights, negotiate for reduced charges, or take your case to trial. Early intervention by a skilled attorney is crucial.
The same rules apply outside Albemarle, and our page on criminal solicitation charges across Virginia walks through each stage.