Criminal Solicitation Lawyer Arlington Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Criminal solicitation in Arlington, Virginia, is a serious felony offense under Va. Code § 18.2-29, involving the intent to have another person commit a crime. A conviction can lead to significant prison time and a permanent felony record. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these charges, drawing on extensive experience in Arlington County courts.
Virginia Law on Criminal Solicitation
Criminal solicitation is defined under Virginia law as commanding, encouraging, or requesting another person to engage in conduct that would constitute a felony or a Class 1 misdemeanor, with the intent that the other person commit the crime. The offense is complete the moment the solicitation is made, even if the requested crime never occurs. The severity of the charge and potential penalties are tied directly to the nature of the crime being solicited.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-29 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filings for Arlington County cases are handled through the Arlington County General District Court website.
Defending a Solicitation Charge in Arlington County
Prosecutors in Arlington County treat solicitation charges seriously, often using electronic communications as evidence. A common local procedural fact is that these cases frequently involve undercover operations or recorded conversations, making early review of all evidence critical. The defense strategy must challenge the prosecution’s proof of your specific intent and the factual basis of the alleged agreement.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Do not discuss the case with anyone before speaking with an attorney. Your statements can be used as evidence.
- Case Assessment: Your attorney will review all police reports, witness statements, and digital evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Investigate Intent: A core defense is challenging whether you possessed the specific criminal intent required under the statute, as opposed to mere talk or hyperbole.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss the charge if the facts do not meet the legal standard.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will advise on pursuing a favorable plea agreement or preparing a strong defense for trial in Arlington County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Solicitation
In Arlington, criminal solicitation is punished as a felony, with penalties based on the crime solicited, including potential prison time and fines.
| Crime Solicited | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felony punishable by life imprisonment | Class 3 Felony | 5-20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, professional license implications |
| Felony not punishable by life | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months jail) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, collateral consequences |
| Class 1 Misdemeanor | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months jail | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes of felony charges in Northern Virginia and provide a focused, strategic defense for clients facing serious allegations like criminal solicitation.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of 115 total case results across all practice areas in Arlington County, achieving a 100% favorable outcome rate for those cases. Our approach involves a thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy from the initial charge through resolution. Founding attorney Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every possible defense angle is explored.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Arlington County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Arlington Location — By appointment only
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
Our Arlington location is positioned to serve clients at the Arlington County courts. We provide criminal charges defense for individuals throughout Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings available by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is criminal solicitation in Virginia?
It is a felony offense under Va. Code § 18.2-29. It involves asking, encouraging, or commanding someone else to commit a felony or Class 1 misdemeanor, with the intent that the crime be carried out. The crime is complete upon the solicitation, even if the other person never acts.
Can I be charged if the person I talked to was an undercover officer?
Yes. Under Virginia law, it does not matter if the person you solicited was a police officer or someone who never intended to commit the crime. The charge is based on your intent and actions. This makes these cases particularly challenging and requires a skilled criminal court lawyer to defend.
What are the defenses to a solicitation charge?
Common defenses include lack of criminal intent (e.g., joking or hypothetical talk), entrapment by law enforcement, insufficient evidence, and violation of your constitutional rights during the investigation. A defense lawyer will analyze all communications and police conduct to build your case.
Should I talk to the police if they contact me about solicitation?
No. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request an attorney. Anything you say can be used to prove your intent. Contact a criminal solicitation lawyer Arlington Virginia before speaking with investigators.
What is the penalty for soliciting a felony in Arlington?
The penalty grade matches the crime solicited. Soliciting a felony punishable by life is a Class 3 felony, carrying 5-20 years in prison. Soliciting other felonies is a Class 6 felony, with 1-5 years possible. A strong defense is critical to mitigate these severe consequences.
If you need a criminal solicitation lawyer Arlington Virginia, do not wait. The defense strategy begins the moment you are under suspicion. For a 24/7 consultation, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.