Sexual Solicitation of a Minor Lawyer Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A charge for sexual solicitation of a minor in Kent County is a serious felony under Delaware law, carrying severe penalties including mandatory prison time and lifetime sex offender registration. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these sensitive cases, understanding the local court procedures and the critical need to protect your future.
Understanding the Statute for Sexual Solicitation of a Minor in Delaware
In Delaware, the crime of sexual solicitation of a minor is primarily governed by 11 Del. C. § 1112A. This statute makes it illegal for a person 18 years of age or older to knowingly solicit, lure, entice, or attempt to solicit a child who is under the age of 18 to engage in any prohibited sexual act or to otherwise participate in sexual conduct. The law is designed to protect minors from predatory behavior, and the definition of “solicitation” can be broad, encompassing communication via text, social media, email, or in person.
Last verified: March 2026 | Kent County Superior Court | Delaware General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We approach each sexual solicitation of a minor case with a detailed, case-specific strategy, recognizing that the evidence often hinges on digital communications and the interpretation of intent.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the law, refer to the official Delaware statute: 11 Del. C. § 1112A (official Delaware General Assembly website). For local court procedures, visit the Delaware Superior Court website.
Local Court Process and Defense Strategy in Kent County
Sexual solicitation of a minor cases in Kent County are typically prosecuted in the Superior Court in Dover. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction treat these cases with high priority. A common local procedural fact is that the Delaware Department of Justice’s Family Division often handles the initial review, and cases can move quickly to indictment.
- Initial Arrest and Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea. Bail conditions often include no contact with minors and internet restrictions.
- Pre-Trial Discovery and Motions: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution, including digital records. Critical motions may be filed to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations: Your lawyer will engage with the prosecutor to explore potential resolutions, which may involve reduced charges or sentencing agreements, depending on the strength of the evidence.
- Trial Preparation: If a plea cannot be reached, a full trial strategy is developed, focusing on challenging the prosecution’s evidence and presenting a defense.
- Trial or Sentencing: The case proceeds to a jury trial, or if a plea is entered, moves to a sentencing hearing before a judge.
Potential Penalties for Sexual Solicitation of a Minor in Delaware
In Kent County, a conviction for sexual solicitation of a minor under 11 Del. C. § 1112A is a Class F felony, but penalties escalate based on the age of the child and the specific conduct, potentially becoming a Class B felony.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Registration | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sexual Solicitation of a Minor (Basic) | Class F Felony | Up to 3 years | Up to $5,000 | Mandatory Tier I or II Sex Offender | Probation, no contact orders |
| Solicitation of a Child Under 12 | Class B Felony | 2 to 25 years (mandatory min.) | Up to $50,000 | Mandatory Tier III Sex Offender | Lifetime GPS monitoring, residency restrictions |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Sensitive Criminal Defense
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team understands the severe, life-altering consequences of a sexual solicitation conviction. We build defenses that scrutinize every aspect of the state’s case, from the legality of the investigation to the validity of the evidence. We know that an affordable sexual solicitation of a minor lawyer Kent County residents can trust must also provide aggressive and informed representation.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in complex criminal cases. While every case is unique, our approach is thorough and proactive from the start. For a sexual solicitation of a minor lawyer near me Kent County, our local knowledge of the Kent County Superior Court is a key advantage. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense Representation in Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Serving Kent County, DE and surrounding areas.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
Available for 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
We represent clients throughout Kent County, including Dover, Smyrna, and Camden-Wyoming. If you need a sexual solicitation of a minor lawyer near me Kent County, our team is accessible and ready to discuss your situation. We provide 24/7 phone consultations for immediate concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “solicitation” mean under Delaware law?
It depends. Solicitation generally means asking, enticing, persuading, or attempting to persuade a minor to engage in sexual conduct. This can occur through any form of communication, including online messages, texts, or verbal statements. The prosecution must prove you knowingly solicited a person you believed was under 18.
Can I be charged if the “minor” was actually an undercover police officer?
Yes. Delaware law allows for charges based on your belief and intent. If you believed you were communicating with a minor, even if it was a law enforcement officer, you can still be charged with sexual solicitation of a minor.
What are the main defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity (someone else used your account), entrapment by law enforcement, and challenging the authenticity or context of digital evidence. An experienced sexual solicitation of a minor lawyer Kent County can evaluate which defenses apply to your case.
Will I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?
Yes. A conviction for sexual solicitation of a minor in Delaware carries mandatory sex offender registration. The tier (I, II, or III) and duration depend on the specific offense and the age of the child, with some requiring lifetime registration.
Should I speak to the police if they contact me?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer any questions without your lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you are trying to explain the situation.
If you are searching for an affordable sexual solicitation of a minor lawyer Kent County, contact us to discuss your case. The stakes are too high to face these charges without experienced counsel.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change — contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
For the background behind a Kent County charge, our page explains how Maryland courts handle a sexual solicitation of a minor charge.