Criminal Solicitation Lawyer Goochland County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A criminal solicitation charge in Goochland County is a serious felony under Virginia law, requiring a strong defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced representation for those accused of solicitation of a crime. Our firm has documented case results in Goochland County. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Law on Criminal Solicitation
Criminal solicitation in Virginia is defined under 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. The offense is complete the moment the solicitation is made, even if the other person never acts on it. The severity of the charge is tied to the felony being solicited; for example, soliciting murder is a Class 3 felony, while soliciting a lesser felony may be a Class 5 or Class 6 felony. A conviction can result in significant prison time, fines, and a permanent felony record.
Last verified: April 2026 | Goochland County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review Va. Code § 18.2-29 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for Goochland County are handled at the Goochland County General District Court for preliminary hearings and the Goochland County Circuit Court for felony trials.
Defending a Solicitation Charge in Goochland County
Defending a criminal solicitation charge often hinges on the intent and context of the communication. Prosecutors must prove you specifically intended for the other person to commit the felony. In Goochland County, these cases frequently involve digital evidence like texts or social media messages, which require careful analysis. An aggressive defense may challenge whether a true solicitation occurred or if the statements were taken out of context.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Do not discuss the case with anyone before speaking with a criminal solicitation lawyer Goochland County.
- Case Assessment: Your attorney will review all evidence, including communications, to assess the strength of the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence obtained improperly or to challenge the legal sufficiency of the charge.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will either negotiate for a reduction or dismissal or prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Goochland County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Solicitation
In Goochland County, a criminal solicitation charge carries penalties based on the felony solicited, ranging from 1 year to life in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solicitation of Murder | Class 3 Felony | 5-20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent violent felony record |
| Solicitation of a Class 5 Felony | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months jail) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights, professional license implications |
| Solicitation of a Class 6 Felony | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, potential probation |
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 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of Virginia’s criminal statutes and local court procedures. We focus on building a defense strategy specific to the details of your solicitation of crime defense in Goochland County.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. In Goochland County, we have achieved results for clients across various practice areas. For instance, our team, including attorney Matthew Greene who has over 30 years of experience and formerly held a contract with Child Protective Services, has successfully defended against serious charges. Each case is unique, and we work to secure the best possible result given the specific circumstances.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Goochland County Residents
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) 477-1723
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Goochland County courts. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 6. As a criminal solicitation charge lawyer Goochland County residents can consult, we provide 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only. We serve the communities of Goochland, Crozier, and Oilville.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is criminal solicitation in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-29, it is a crime to command, entreat, or attempt to persuade another person to commit a felony. The crime is complete upon the solicitation, regardless of whether the other person acts.
Can I be charged if I was just joking?
It depends. The prosecution must prove you had the specific intent for the crime to be committed. If your statements can reasonably be interpreted as a serious solicitation, you can be charged. Context and evidence are critical, making early intervention by a criminal solicitation lawyer Goochland County essential.
What are the defenses to a solicitation charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent, entrapment by law enforcement, insufficient evidence that a felony was solicited, or that the communication was protected speech. A detailed review of all evidence is necessary to build the right defense strategy.
Is solicitation a felony?
Yes. In Virginia, criminal solicitation is generally a felony. The class of felony (e.g., Class 3, 5, or 6) depends on the seriousness of the crime you are accused of soliciting.
What should I do if I’m under investigation?
Immediately contact a lawyer. Do not speak to investigators or discuss the case with anyone. A solicitor of crime defense lawyer Goochland County can advise you on your rights and intervene before charges are formally filed.
Related Legal Help in Goochland County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for general criminal defense in Goochland County, DUI/DWI charges, and sex crime defense. For a full overview of our Virginia practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
The same rules apply outside Goochland County, and our page on criminal solicitation charges across Virginia walks through each stage.