Criminal Solicitation Defense Lawyer in Loudoun County, Virginia
Criminal solicitation in Loudoun County is a serious felony under Virginia law, often charged alongside other sex crimes. A conviction can mean years in prison and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 13 documented results in Loudoun County sex crime cases, including criminal solicitation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Loudoun County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Criminal Solicitation
Criminal solicitation is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-29. It involves requesting, encouraging, or commanding another person to engage in criminal conduct with the intent that the crime be committed. In Loudoun County, this charge is frequently seen in cases involving the solicitation of minors or prostitution. The severity of the charge depends on the nature of the crime being solicited; soliciting a felony is itself a felony.
The firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in complex financial and technical cases, brings a strategic perspective to building a defense against these allegations.
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 Loudoun County cases are handled through the Loudoun County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Solicitation Charges
In Loudoun County, criminal solicitation cases typically begin with an investigation, often involving digital evidence from online platforms. If charged, your first appearance will be at the Loudoun County General District Court for a bond hearing and to set a date for a preliminary hearing.
- Arrest & Bond Hearing: You will be taken before a magistrate. A bond hearing at Loudoun County General District Court (18 East Market Street, Leesburg) will determine if you can be released before trial.
- Preliminary Hearing: Held in General District Court within 21-60 days. The prosecution must show probable cause for the felony solicitation charge.
- Grand Jury & Indictment: If probable cause is found, the case is sent to a grand jury, which typically issues an indictment within 90 days.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: You will be formally arraigned on the indictment in Loudoun County Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your criminal court lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence and challenge the prosecution’s case during this phase.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a plea agreement, often focused on avoiding sex offender registry requirements.
In Loudoun County, criminal solicitation penalties depend on the crime solicited, ranging from a Class 6 felony (1-5 years) for soliciting certain misdemeanors, to a higher felony class matching the crime solicited.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Solicitation of a Felony | Felony (Class matches crime solicited) | 1 year to life, per Va. Code | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Lifetime sex offender registry if crime is registry-triggering; permanent criminal record |
| Criminal Solicitation of Prostitution (§ 18.2-346) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Possible driver’s license suspension; court costs |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Criminal Solicitation Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we use every available resource to defend our clients. We understand that a criminal solicitation charge can upend your life, reputation, and future. Our defense strategy focuses on a detailed review of all communications and evidence, challenging the intent element required for a conviction, and negotiating to reduce or dismiss charges where possible.
Documented Case Results in Loudoun County
Our firm has a documented record in Loudoun County sex crime cases, which include criminal solicitation charges. We have achieved 13 documented results locally: 10 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 1 charge reduced or amended, and 2 other favorable outcomes.
For example, our defense team, including attorney Matthew Greene who has over 30 years of experience and formerly held a contract with Child Protective Services, has successfully secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) in Loudoun County Circuit Court for clients facing serious charges such as possession of child pornography, which often involves related solicitation allegations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Ashburn Location — 20130 Lakeview Center Plaza, Room No. 403, Ashburn, VA 20147
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 571-279-0110 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Ashburn location serves clients at the Loudoun County courts. We provide representation for individuals in Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, Purcellville, South Riding, Brambleton, Aldie, Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg, and Round Hill. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Criminal Solicitation Defense FAQs
What is the penalty for criminal solicitation in Virginia?
It depends. The penalty matches the classification of the crime you are accused of soliciting. Soliciting a felony is a felony with potential prison time of 1 year to life. Soliciting prostitution is a Class 1 misdemeanor with up to 12 months in jail. All charges require a strong criminal charges defense.
Can I be charged with solicitation just for talking online?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-29, you can be charged if the prosecution can prove you requested or encouraged a criminal act with intent. Online chats, texts, or emails are commonly used as evidence. A criminal attorney must scrutinize the context and your intent.
Is solicitation the same as an attempt?
No. Criminal solicitation involves trying to get someone else to commit a crime. Attempt involves taking a substantial step toward committing the crime yourself. Both are separate, chargeable offenses that require a dedicated defense lawyer.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for solicitation?
Immediately contact a criminal solicitation lawyer Loudoun Virginia. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. An experienced criminal court lawyer can advise you on your rights and may be able to intervene before formal charges are filed.
Can a solicitation charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes. A skilled defense often focuses on challenging the evidence of intent or negotiating with prosecutors for a reduction to a non-registry offense or dismissal. Our 13 documented Loudoun results include dismissals and amended charges.
For more information, see our Virginia Sex Crime Defense hub. We also assist with general criminal defense in Loudoun County and DUI charges.
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 Loudoun, our page on criminal solicitation charges across Virginia sets out what to look for at each stage.