Criminal Solicitation Defense Lawyer in Loudoun County, Virginia
A criminal solicitation charge in Loudoun County is a serious felony offense under Virginia law, involving the intent to have another person commit a crime. If you are accused, you need a dedicated criminal solicitation lawyer Loudoun County. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing these complex charges in Loudoun County Circuit Court.
Virginia Law on Criminal Solicitation
Criminal solicitation in Virginia is defined under 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, even if the other person does not ultimately commit the crime. The offense is complete the moment the solicitation is made with the requisite intent. The severity of the charge is tied to the felony being solicited; for example, soliciting murder is a Class 3 felony, while soliciting other felonies is generally a Class 6 felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Loudoun County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the official Va. Code § 18.2-29 (Criminal Solicitation). Court procedures and filings for Loudoun County are handled through the Loudoun County Circuit Court website.
Defending a Solicitation Charge in Loudoun County
Prosecutors in Loudoun County aggressively pursue solicitation charges, often relying on digital evidence like texts, emails, or social media messages. A key defense strategy involves challenging the prosecution’s proof of your specific intent to have a felony committed. We examine whether the communication was mere venting, a joke, or lacked the serious intent required by law. The procedural path for a felony solicitation charge typically begins with a preliminary hearing in Loudoun County General District Court before moving to Circuit Court for trial.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be arrested and taken before a magistrate. An attorney can argue for reasonable bond conditions.
- Preliminary Hearing: A hearing in Loudoun County General District Court where the Commonwealth must show probable cause that you committed solicitation.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case proceeds, you will be formally charged in Loudoun County Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence and obtain all the prosecution’s evidence against you.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare for a jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Solicitation
In Loudoun County, a criminal solicitation charge carries penalties that mirror the felony you are accused of soliciting, including significant prison time and lasting consequences.
| Solicitation Of | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murder (Capital) | Class 3 Felony | 5-20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record |
| Other Felonies | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months jail) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights, employment barriers |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Loudoun County Courts
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 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes of a felony solicitation charge and build defenses focused on intent, evidence suppression, and protecting your future.
Case Results & Defense Strategy
Our approach to defending a solicitation of crime charge involves a meticulous review of all communications and circumstances. We look for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as lack of corroborating evidence, ambiguous language, or entrapment. For instance, in past cases, we have successfully argued that alleged statements were taken out of context or did not demonstrate a genuine intent to commit a crime. Attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including former death penalty certification, brings additional depth to building these complex defenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Loudoun County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
20130 Lakeview Center Plaza, Room No. 403
Ashburn, VA 20147
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 858-2868
By appointment only.
Our Ashburn location serves clients at the Loudoun County courts. As a criminal solicitation charge lawyer Loudoun County, we are accessible to residents in Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, Purcellville, South Riding, Brambleton, Aldie, Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg, and Round Hill. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747—meetings are by appointment only.
FAQs: Criminal Solicitation Charges in Virginia
Is criminal solicitation a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Criminal solicitation is always a felony in Virginia. The class of felony (Class 3 or Class 6) depends on the seriousness of the crime you are accused of soliciting.
What is the key element the prosecution must prove?
It depends. The Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you specifically intended for another person to commit a felony. Your words or actions must show a serious desire for the crime to occur, not just idle talk or frustration.
Can I be charged if the other person never committed the crime?
Yes. The crime of solicitation is complete once the request or encouragement is made with the required intent. It does not matter if the solicited person agrees, refuses, or ignores the request.
What are common defenses to a solicitation charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (e.g., joking), entrapment by law enforcement, insufficient evidence, and violation of constitutional rights during the investigation. A solicitation of crime defense lawyer Loudoun County can identify the best strategy for your case.
Where will my case be heard in Loudoun County?
Felony criminal solicitation cases are tried in the Loudoun County Circuit Court located at 18 East Market Street in Leesburg. Preliminary hearings are held in the Loudoun County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
Loudoun County is one part of a statewide practice, and our page on criminal solicitation lawyer Virginia covers the process from start to finish.