Virginia Criminal Solicitation Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Criminal solicitation in Virginia is a serious felony offense under Va. Code § 18.2-29, involving the intent to have another person commit a crime. If you are charged, securing a skilled criminal solicitation lawyer in Virginia is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced defense for these complex charges. Our team understands the severe penalties and long-term consequences you face.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Criminal Solicitation
Criminal solicitation is defined under Virginia law as commanding, enticing, or inducing another person to commit a felony or a Class 1 misdemeanor, with the intent that the crime be committed. The charge is not based on the completion of the crime, but on the specific intent and actions taken to encourage it. This makes the mental state of the accused a central element of the prosecution’s case. A Virginia criminal attorney must carefully examine the evidence of intent and communication.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, review Va. Code § 18.2-29 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court-specific procedures, consult the Virginia Judicial System website.
Defending a Solicitation Charge in Virginia Courts
The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you intended for a specific crime to be committed and took a substantial step to solicit it. A common defense involves challenging the evidence of this specific intent. For instance, mere discussion of a crime without a clear intent to have it carried out may not meet the legal standard. A Virginia criminal court lawyer will also scrutinize the methods used by law enforcement, as entrapment can be a valid defense if an officer induced the criminal intent.
- Secure immediate legal representation before making any statements.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all discovery, including communications and recordings.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge the admissibility of evidence.
- Develop a defense strategy focused on intent, entrapment, or lack of a substantial step.
- Negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction or dismissal of charges where possible.
- Prepare for trial, focusing on creating reasonable doubt about your intent.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Solicitation in Virginia
In Virginia, criminal solicitation carries penalties that match the crime solicited, making it a severe charge with potential for lengthy incarceration.
| Offense Solicited | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felony | Same as felony solicited | 1 year to life, per felony | Up to $100,000 | Permanent criminal record, loss of professional licenses, firearm rights |
| Class 1 Misdemeanor | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, potential immigration consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Virginia Sex Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. Our firm-wide experience includes over 4,739 documented case results. We approach each criminal solicitation case with a detailed strategy, recognizing that the stakes involve your freedom and future. Our defense lawyers are prepared to challenge the prosecution’s evidence from the first court appearance.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our team has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC. In criminal charges defense, we work to have charges reduced or dismissed. For instance, our attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including a former contract with Child Protective Services, provides deep insight into cases involving sensitive allegations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact a Virginia Criminal Solicitation Defense Lawyer
If you are under investigation or have been charged, time is critical. Our defense lawyers are available 24/7 for phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
We serve clients throughout all Virginia communities. Meetings are available by appointment at our Fairfax location, which is accessible via I-66 and Route 50. We are a criminal solicitation lawyer near Virginia courts statewide.
Virginia Criminal Solicitation Lawyer FAQ
Is criminal solicitation a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Criminal solicitation is generally punished as a felony if the crime solicited is a felony. The penalty grade matches the crime you are accused of soliciting.
What is the difference between solicitation and conspiracy?
It depends. Solicitation involves urging another person to commit a crime. Conspiracy requires an agreement between two or more people to commit a crime. You can be charged with solicitation even if the other person never agrees.
Can I be charged if the crime never happened?
Yes. The crime of solicitation is complete the moment you command or induce someone with the intent that they commit a crime. The actual commission of the crime is not required for a conviction.
What are common defenses to a solicitation charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent, entrapment by law enforcement, withdrawal from the solicitation, and insufficient evidence that your words constituted a command or inducement to commit a specific crime.
Should I talk to the police if they contact me?
No. You should politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a criminal solicitation lawyer in Virginia. Anything you say can be used to establish intent, a key element of the charge.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.