Criminal Solicitation Lawyer in Madison, Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Criminal solicitation in Madison, Virginia, is a serious felony offense under Va. Code § 18.2-29, involving the intent to have another person commit a crime. If convicted, you face the same penalties as the crime you are accused of soliciting. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented case results defending clients in Madison County courts.
Virginia Law on Criminal Solicitation
Criminal solicitation is defined under Virginia law as commanding, entreating, or otherwise attempting to persuade another person to commit a felony or a Class 1 misdemeanor, with the intent that the crime be committed. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-29, treats the solicitation as a separate, completed offense, even if the requested crime never occurs. The severity of the charge depends entirely on the nature of the crime being solicited. For instance, soliciting a murder is a Class 2 felony, while soliciting an assault could be a misdemeanor. The prosecution must prove your specific intent that the other person carry out the illegal act.
Last verified: April 2026 | Madison County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the criminal solicitation statute, refer to the official Va. Code § 18.2-29 on the Virginia Legislative Information System. Information about court procedures and locations in Madison County can be found on the Madison County Courts website.
Local Court Process for Solicitation Charges in Madison
Felony criminal solicitation cases in Madison County begin with an arrest or summons. A preliminary hearing is held in the Madison County General District Court to determine if there is probable cause to certify the case to Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you intentionally sought to have another person commit a specific crime. Defense strategy often focuses on challenging the evidence of intent, which is frequently based on communications like texts or emails. Our criminal attorney team examines whether your words constituted a genuine solicitation or were taken out of context.
- Arrest or issuance of a warrant for criminal solicitation.
- Initial advisement and bond hearing in Madison County General District Court.
- Preliminary hearing where the Commonwealth presents evidence of probable cause.
- If certified, the case proceeds to Madison County Circuit Court for indictment and trial.
- Pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the charge.
- Negotiation or trial to resolve the criminal charges defense.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Solicitation
In Madison, Virginia, criminal solicitation penalties mirror those of the crime solicited, ranging from jail time for misdemeanors to decades in prison for serious felonies.
| 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 |
| Felony Drug Distribution | Felony (varies) | 5-40 years | Substantial fines | Driver’s license suspension |
| Assault (Class 1 Misd.) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your 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 provide “Advocacy Without Borders,” offering 24/7 availability to clients in Madison County. Our defense lawyers understand the high stakes of felony solicitation charges and work to protect your future from the moment you contact us.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of defending clients in Madison County. Our approach involves a thorough investigation of the facts, particularly the communications alleged to show solicitation. We work to demonstrate a lack of criminal intent or explore potential defenses like entrapment. For instance, in past cases, our defense lawyer team has successfully argued that alleged solicitations were merely hyperbolic speech or jokes taken out of context, skilled to charge reductions or dismissals.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Legal Support in Madison County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Madison County courts. We are accessible via major routes like Route 29 and Route 231. We provide criminal defense representation to individuals throughout the Madison community. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. Contact a criminal solicitation lawyer Madison Virginia from our team today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is criminal solicitation in Virginia?
It is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-29. It involves intentionally trying to persuade someone else to commit a felony or Class 1 misdemeanor. You can be charged even if the other person never commits the crime.
What are the penalties for criminal solicitation?
The penalties match the crime you are accused of soliciting. If you solicit a murder (Class 2 felony), you face 20 years to life in prison. Soliciting a misdemeanor assault could result in up to 12 months in jail. A criminal court lawyer can explain the specific penalties for your charge.
What defenses are available against a solicitation charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent, entrapment by law enforcement, or that the communication was not a genuine solicitation. The prosecution must prove you specifically intended for the crime to happen. A defense lawyer will analyze all evidence to challenge this element.
Why do I need a lawyer for a solicitation charge?
These are serious felony charges with severe, long-term consequences. An experienced criminal attorney can investigate the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, and protect your rights throughout the process. Early intervention is critical for building a strong defense.
What should I do if I am charged with criminal solicitation?
Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Exercise your right to remain silent. A lawyer can guide you through the initial court hearings and begin building your defense strategy right away.
Related Practice Areas: For other legal needs in Madison County, our firm also handles general criminal defense, DUI/DWI cases, and family law matters.
More Virginia Locations: Our criminal solicitation lawyers also serve clients in Fairfax County, Prince William County, and across the state. Visit our Virginia sex crime defense hub for more information.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.