Criminal Solicitation Lawyer Middlesex Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Criminal solicitation in Middlesex County is a serious felony under Virginia law, often charged alongside conspiracy or attempt. A conviction can lead to years in prison and a permanent criminal record. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a focused defense for these complex charges. Our criminal attorney team understands the specific statutes and local court procedures.
Virginia Law on Criminal Solicitation
Criminal solicitation is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-29. The law makes it a crime to command, entreat, or otherwise attempt to persuade another person to commit a felony, even if the felony is never attempted or completed. The offense is complete the moment the solicitation is made; no action by the person being solicited is required. 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.
Last verified: April 2026 | Middlesex County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the specific law is critical. You can review the full text of Va. Code § 18.2-29 (official Virginia General Assembly). For local court procedures and forms, visit the Virginia Judicial System website.
Local Court Process for Solicitation Charges
In Middlesex County, a criminal solicitation charge typically begins with an arrest or summons. The case will start in the Middlesex County General District Court for a preliminary hearing. At this stage, the prosecution must show probable cause that you committed the solicitation. Given the nature of these charges, which often involve undercover operations or recorded communications, the evidence presented can be technical. A strong defense at the preliminary hearing can sometimes lead to a reduction or dismissal before the case moves to a higher court.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be brought before a magistrate for bail determination, then have an arraignment in General District Court.
- Preliminary Hearing: The Commonwealth presents evidence to establish probable cause. Your defense lawyer can cross-examine witnesses and argue for dismissal.
- Circuit Court Indictment: If probable cause is found, the case proceeds to Circuit Court where a grand jury issues a formal indictment.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the charge.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial or may be resolved through negotiated plea agreements based on the strength of the defense.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court will impose a sentence based on Virginia’s sentencing guidelines and the specific facts of the solicitation.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Solicitation
In Middlesex, criminal solicitation penalties mirror those for the felony solicited, carrying significant prison time, fines, and long-term consequences.
| Offense Solicited | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murder | Class 3 Felony | 5-20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent violent felony record |
| Robbery, Arson, etc. | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights, professional license issues |
| Other Felonies | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years* | Up to $2,500 | Difficulty securing employment, housing |
*Judges have discretion to impose active incarceration or suspend the sentence. The court will consider your criminal history and the specifics of the solicitation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Approach to Solicitation Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex criminal defense. Our approach in Middlesex County is grounded in a detailed understanding of how solicitation charges are investigated and proven. We immediately work to secure all evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any electronic communications. Our defense strategy often focuses on challenging the element of intent—arguing that the alleged communication was taken out of context, was mere bravado, or did not constitute a true solicitation to commit a crime. We also scrutinize the methods used by law enforcement to ensure your constitutional rights were not violated during the investigation.
Documented Case Results
While every case is unique, our firm-wide track record across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In solicitation and related conspiracy cases, favorable outcomes have included charges being dropped at preliminary hearing, reduction to misdemeanor offenses, and acquittals at trial. 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 charges where the evidence of a firm agreement was weak.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Middlesex County Residents
If you need a criminal solicitation lawyer near Middlesex County, our Richmond location is strategically positioned to serve the area. We provide 24/7 phone consultations and meet with clients by appointment only. We serve Middlesex and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is criminal solicitation a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Criminal solicitation is always charged as a felony in Virginia. The class of felony (Class 3, 5, or 6) depends on the seriousness of the crime you are accused of soliciting another person to commit.
Can I be charged if the person I talked to never committed the crime?
Yes. The crime of solicitation is complete once the request or encouragement is made. It does not matter if the other person agrees, refuses, or ignores you. The law targets the act of trying to get someone to commit a felony.
What’s the difference between solicitation and conspiracy?
It depends. Solicitation involves trying to get someone else to commit a crime. Conspiracy requires an agreement between two or more people to commit a crime. You can be charged with both if you successfully solicit someone and then make an agreement with them to carry out the act.
What are common defenses to a solicitation charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you were joking or speaking hypothetically), entrapment by law enforcement, insufficiency of evidence that a true solicitation occurred, and violation of your constitutional rights during the investigation. A skilled defense lawyer will analyze all communications and police conduct.
Why do I need a criminal court lawyer for this?
A specialized criminal court lawyer understands the nuances of proving intent in solicitation cases and the procedural rules of Virginia courts. They can file pre-trial motions, effectively cross-examine witnesses, and negotiate with prosecutors who are familiar with these complex charges, which is crucial for protecting your future.
Related Content: For other serious charges, see our pages on Virginia Sex Crimes Lawyer, Conspiracy Lawyer Virginia, and Attempt to Commit a Felony Lawyer Virginia.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your criminal charges defense.
If your case reaches beyond Middlesex, our page on criminal solicitation charges across Virginia sets out what to look for at each stage.