District Of Columbia Sexual Solicitation Of A Minor Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Sexual solicitation of a minor in Washington, D.C., is a serious felony prosecuted under D.C. Code § 22-3008 et seq., carrying severe penalties including mandatory sex offender registration. If you are under investigation or have been charged, you need a dedicated District Of Columbia Sexual Solicitation Of A Minor Lawyer from the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Sexual Solicitation of a Minor Charges in D.C.
In Washington, D.C., the crime of sexual solicitation of a minor is defined under D.C. Code § 22-3008 (First Degree Child Sexual Abuse) and related statutes. The law prohibits knowingly soliciting, enticing, or persuading a minor under the age of 16 to engage in a sexual act or contact. This can occur in person, over the phone, or through electronic communications. The prosecution must prove you had the intent to engage in sexual activity with a person you knew or should have known was a minor.
Last verified: April 2026 | DC Superior Court | D.C. Code Council
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the D.C. Code § 22-3008 (official D.C. Council website). Court procedures and information are available through the DC Superior Court website.
Local Court Process and Defense Strategy
These cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and heard in the DC Superior Court. A grand jury indictment is required for felony charges. The process is complex, and the consequences of a conviction are severe. A skilled criminal attorney will examine every detail, from the initial contact and evidence collection to the credibility of witnesses and the methods used by law enforcement.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: Immediately contact a defense lawyer to discuss the allegations and begin building your defense strategy.
- Investigation & Evidence Review: Your attorney will obtain all discovery, including police reports, chat logs, and any forensic evidence.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to challenge the admissibility of evidence or dismiss charges if constitutional rights were violated.
- Negotiation or Trial: Work to negotiate a reduction or dismissal of charges. If a fair plea cannot be reached, prepare for a jury trial.
- Sentencing & Registration: If convicted, advocate for the most favorable sentencing terms and handle the mandatory sex offender registration requirements.
Potential Penalties for Sexual Solicitation of a Minor in D.C.
In Washington, D.C., a conviction for first-degree child sexual abuse, which includes solicitation, can result in a prison sentence of up to life and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Degree Child Sexual Abuse (Solicitation) | Felony | Up to life imprisonment | Court discretion | N/A | Mandatory sex offender registration; potential supervised release |
| Second Degree Child Sexual Abuse | Felony | Up to 20 years | Court discretion | N/A | Mandatory sex offender registration |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in D.C. Sex Crime Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of the severe stakes involved in sex crime allegations. We know that a charge for sexual solicitation of a minor can devastate your reputation, family, and future. Our team works to protect your rights from the initial investigation through every court appearance.
Building a Defense Against Solicitation Charges
When facing criminal charges of this nature, an aggressive and informed defense is critical. Our defense lawyers analyze whether there was entrapment, if the alleged minor was actually of age, the authenticity of communications, and whether your constitutional rights were upheld during the investigation. We also work with forensic experts when necessary to challenge digital evidence. Attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, provides critical insight into defending against allegations involving minors.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Arlington Location — 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250 | Local: (703) 273-4105
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location is approximately 3 miles from the DC Superior Court, accessible via I-395 and I-66. We serve clients across Washington, D.C., including Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, U Street, and Navy Yard. If you need a sexual solicitation of a minor lawyer near the DC Superior Court, contact us for a 24/7 phone consultation. Meetings are by appointment only.
District Of Columbia Sexual Solicitation Of A Minor Lawyer FAQ
What does “sexual solicitation of a minor” mean in D.C.?
It depends. Under D.C. law, it generally means knowingly asking, enticing, or persuading a person under 16 to engage in a sexual act. The specific charges and penalties depend on the minor’s age, the nature of the communication, and the intent proven by the prosecution.
Can I go to jail for just talking to someone online?
Yes. If the prosecution can prove you knowingly solicited a minor for a sexual act, even through online messages, you can face felony charges. A strong criminal charges defense often focuses on intent, entrapment, and the authenticity of the communications.
What should I do if the police want to talk to me?
Do not speak to law enforcement without a criminal court lawyer present. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you, and investigators are trained to obtain incriminating statements.
Is entrapment a valid defense?
It can be. Entrapment occurs when law enforcement induces a person to commit a crime they were not predisposed to commit. An experienced defense lawyer will investigate whether undercover officers used coercive or persuasive tactics that crossed the line into entrapment.
Will I have to register as a sex offender?
A conviction for sexual solicitation of a minor in D.C. typically carries a mandatory requirement to register as a sex offender. The duration and public accessibility of the registry depend on the specific offense and risk assessment.
Related Practice Areas: Washington, D.C. DUI Lawyer | Washington, D.C. Business Lawyer
See Also: DC Sex Crime Lawyer Hub
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.