Criminal Solicitation Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia
Criminal solicitation under Va. Code § 18.2-29 is a serious felony offense in Fairfax County, punishable by up to life imprisonment depending on the crime solicited. If you are accused of urging another person to commit a felony, you need an experienced criminal solicitation lawyer Fairfax from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
What Is Criminal Solicitation in Virginia?
Criminal solicitation is defined under Virginia law as commanding, entreating, or otherwise attempting to persuade another person to commit a felony. The crime is complete the moment the solicitation is made, even if the other person never acts on it. The severity of the charge is tied directly to the felony being solicited. For example, soliciting a murder is a Class 2 felony, while soliciting a burglary is a Class 6 felony. The prosecution must prove you had the specific intent that the felony be committed.
- Arrest and initial appearance at Fairfax County General District Court.
- Preliminary hearing to determine probable cause for a felony charge.
- Case may be certified to the Fairfax County Circuit Court for trial.
- Pre-trial motions, including challenges to the evidence of intent.
- Negotiation or trial focused on the specific language used and your intent.
- Sentencing if convicted, with penalties based on the underlying felony.
Virginia Law and Penalties for Solicitation
In Fairfax County, a criminal solicitation charge carries a penalty range identical to the punishment for the felony crime you are accused of soliciting, up to life in prison.
| Offense Solicited | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murder | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record |
| Robbery | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights |
| Burglary | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | Employment barriers |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Defense Approach for Solicitation Charges
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our defense in criminal solicitation cases focuses on the core element of intent. We meticulously analyze all communications and circumstances to challenge the prosecution’s claim that you specifically intended for a felony to be committed. We may argue that your words were taken out of context, were mere hyperbole, or that you lacked the serious intent required for a conviction.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of defending clients against serious charges. In sex crime cases in Fairfax County, we have achieved 107 documented results, including 38 dismissals or not guilty verdicts and 38 charges reduced or amended. For your solicitation of crime defense lawyer Fairfax needs, we apply the same rigorous defense strategy. Attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including a former contract with Child Protective Services, provides critical insight on cases involving sensitive allegations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Solicitation Defense in Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We represent individuals in Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Fairfax County Criminal Solicitation Lawyer FAQ
What is the law on criminal solicitation in Virginia?
Yes. Virginia Code § 18.2-29 makes it a felony to command, entreat, or attempt to persuade another to commit a felony. The penalty matches the punishment for the crime solicited.
Can I be charged if the person I talked to didn’t commit the crime?
Yes. The crime of solicitation is complete upon the communication of the request with the required intent. The other person’s actions are not required for a prosecution.
What is the best defense against a solicitation charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include lack of specific intent, that the statement was a joke or hyperbole, or that the communication was taken out of context. A skilled criminal solicitation charge lawyer Fairfax can analyze the evidence to build the strongest defense.
Is solicitation a federal crime?
It can be. Federal law also prohibits solicitation to commit crimes of violence or other federal offenses. If your case involves interstate communications or federal jurisdiction, you need an attorney experienced in both state and federal courts.
Where will my solicitation case be heard in Fairfax?
Felony solicitation cases begin with a preliminary hearing at the Fairfax County General District Court. If probable cause is found, the case is certified to the Fairfax County Circuit Court for trial.
For more information on Virginia criminal law, you can review the official Virginia Code § 18.2-29 or visit the Fairfax County General District Court website. If you are facing related charges, you may need a general criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax or a sex crime defense lawyer in Fairfax.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If your case reaches beyond Fairfax, our page on criminal solicitation charges across Virginia sets out what to look for at each stage.