Sexual Solicitation Of A Minor Lawyer Buckingham VA — What Are Your Defense Options?
Sexual solicitation of a minor is a serious felony under Virginia law, carrying severe penalties. In Buckingham County, these charges are prosecuted aggressively in the General District and Circuit Courts. A conviction can mean years in prison and lifetime sex offender registration. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a focused defense for individuals facing these allegations.
Virginia Law on Sexual Solicitation of a Minor
Sexual solicitation of a minor is primarily governed by Virginia Code § 18.2-374.3. This statute makes it a crime to use a communications system, including the internet, phone, or text message, to solicit, lure, or entice a person the accused believes to be under 15 years of age to engage in sexual activity. The law is designed to protect children from online predators and applies even if the other person is actually an undercover law enforcement officer. The offense is classified as a Class 5 felony, punishable by one to ten years in prison, though sentencing can be more severe under certain circumstances.
Last verified: April 2026 | Buckingham County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the exact statutory language, refer to the official Virginia Code § 18.2-374.3 (official Virginia General Assembly website). For local court procedures and filing information, visit the Virginia Judicial System website for Circuit Courts.
Defending a Solicitation Charge in Buckingham County
These cases often begin with an online investigation by state or federal task forces. The key local procedural fact is that evidence in these cases is almost entirely digital. In Buckingham County, prosecutors rely heavily on chat logs, IP address records, and undercover officer testimony. A strong defense requires immediate action to secure and analyze all electronic evidence before it can be misinterpreted or taken out of context.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Preserve All Digital Evidence: Do not delete any accounts, messages, or files. Your defense lawyer will need to conduct a forensic review.
- Understand the Charges: Your criminal court lawyer will review the indictment or warrant to identify the specific allegations and potential penalties.
- Investigate the Evidence: A thorough defense examines the origin of the investigation, the methods used by law enforcement, and the authenticity of all digital evidence.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: Strategies may involve challenging the intent element, questioning the legality of the police investigation, or negotiating for a reduced charge.
- Prepare for Court: Your attorney will guide you through each hearing, from the bond hearing in General District Court to potential trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Sexual Solicitation of a Minor
In Buckingham County, a conviction for sexual solicitation of a minor as a Class 5 felony carries a prison sentence of 1 to 10 years and a fine of up to $2,500. However, if the accused is more than five years older than the minor, the offense becomes a Class 4 felony, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. Conviction also mandates registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sexual Solicitation of Minor (§ 18.2-374.3) | Class 5 Felony | 1 – 10 years | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Mandatory sex offender registration |
| Sexual Solicitation (Accused 5+ years older) | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Mandatory sex offender registration |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Sex Crime 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 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes and sensitive nature of sex crime allegations. Our approach is direct and focused on the details of the evidence and the law. For these serious charges, 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, often collaborates on case strategy, bringing deep insight into how these cases are investigated and argued.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While we maintain a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC, every case is unique. Our defense strategy for sexual solicitation charges is built on challenging the prosecution’s digital evidence and proving a lack of criminal intent. We work to achieve outcomes that protect our clients’ futures from the severe, lifelong consequences of a conviction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Legal Support for Buckingham County Residents
Our Richmond location serves clients in Buckingham and surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and meet with clients by appointment only to discuss their case and defense options.
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: (703) 636-5417 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sexual solicitation of a minor a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Sexual solicitation of a minor is a felony in Virginia. It is typically charged as a Class 5 felony, which carries 1 to 10 years in prison. If the accused is more than five years older than the minor, it becomes a Class 4 felony with 2 to 10 years in prison.
What if I was talking to an undercover police officer and not a real minor?
It depends. Virginia law prohibits soliciting a person you believe to be under 15. If the state can prove you believed you were communicating with a child, you can still be convicted even if the other person was an officer. A strong defense challenges the evidence of that belief.
Will I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?
Yes. A conviction for sexual solicitation of a minor under Virginia Code § 18.2-374.3 requires mandatory registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry. Registration is typically for life and imposes significant restrictions on where you can live and work.
What should I do if I am being investigated for this crime?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Immediately contact a defense lawyer who handles sex crimes. Preserve all your digital devices and accounts—do not delete anything. An attorney can advise you of your rights and begin building your defense against the criminal charges.
Can these charges be reduced or dismissed?
It depends on the evidence. A skilled criminal attorney can file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the prosecution’s case for lack of intent. In some situations, negotiations may lead to a reduction in charges. Every case is different, and an early, aggressive defense is critical.
The same rules apply outside Buckingham, and our page on sexual solicitation of a minor charges across Virginia walks through each stage.