Solicitation Lawyer Maryland — What Are Your Defense Options?
Solicitation in Maryland is a serious criminal offense, often charged as a felony with severe penalties. If you are facing these charges, you need a Maryland solicitation lawyer who understands the specific statutes and local court procedures. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients across the state. Our criminal attorney team is available 24/7 for consultations.
Understanding Solicitation Charges in Maryland
Solicitation, under Maryland law, involves requesting, commanding, encouraging, or enticing another person to commit a crime with the intent that the crime be committed. It is a separate offense from the crime being solicited. The penalties for solicitation are often as severe as those for the completed crime itself, depending on the nature of the underlying offense. For example, solicitation to commit murder is treated with extreme gravity.
Last verified: April 2026 | Maryland Courts | Maryland General Assembly
The firm’s founder, a former prosecutor, brings a critical understanding of how these cases are built by the state, which is essential for crafting an effective defense strategy.
Official Legal Resources
For the precise legal definition, refer to the Maryland Statutes (official Maryland General Assembly). For court procedures and filing information, visit the Maryland Judiciary website.
Local Court Procedures for Solicitation Cases
Solicitation cases in Maryland can be heard in either District Court or Circuit Court, depending on whether the underlying crime is a misdemeanor or felony. Felony solicitation charges begin in the District Court for a preliminary hearing but are typically forwarded to the Circuit Court for trial. The process moves quickly, making early intervention by a defense lawyer crucial.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You will be formally charged and informed of your rights. Bail conditions are set.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felony Cases): The state must show probable cause that the crime of solicitation occurred.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if constitutional rights were violated.
- Plea Negotiations: The majority of cases are resolved through negotiation. A skilled attorney can argue for reduced charges or alternative sentencing.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench or jury trial where the state must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on statutory guidelines and arguments from your defense.
Potential Penalties for Solicitation in Maryland
In Maryland, solicitation penalties mirror those of the crime solicited, including lengthy prison terms, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Solicitation Of | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murder | Felony | Life imprisonment | Up to $10,000 | Permanent violent felony record |
| Sexual Offense | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | Sex Offender Registration |
| Drug Distribution | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | Driver’s license suspension |
| Prostitution | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $500 | Public record of vice crime |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Solicitation Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. operates on the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders.” Our team has a combined 120+ years of legal experience handling complex criminal charges defense. We understand that a solicitation charge can damage your reputation, career, and family life. Our approach is to build a case-specific defense focused on the specific element of intent required for a solicitation conviction.
Case Results in Maryland
Our Maryland team has a documented record of achieving favorable results in sensitive criminal cases. For instance, we have secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in child pornography promotion cases and negotiated suspended sentences with probation in other serious sex crime matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every defense is thorough and aggressive.
Contact a Maryland Solicitation Lawyer Near You
If you are under investigation or have been charged, time is critical. Contact a Maryland solicitation lawyer from our firm immediately to start building your defense.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E. Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
By appointment only.
We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — meetings are by appointment only.
Maryland Solicitation Lawyer FAQ
Is solicitation a felony in Maryland?
Yes, solicitation to commit a felony is itself a felony in Maryland. The classification and potential penalties directly correspond to the seriousness of the crime you are accused of soliciting.
What is the key element the prosecution must prove?
It depends, but the core element is specific intent. The state must prove you not only made a request or command but did so with the specific intent that the underlying crime actually be committed. Challenging proof of intent is a common defense strategy.
Can I be charged if the person I asked refused to commit the crime?
Yes. The crime of solicitation is complete the moment the request is made with the required intent. It does not matter if the other person agrees, refuses, or ignores the request. The defense focuses on the intent behind the communication.
What are common defenses against a solicitation charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent, entrapment by law enforcement, mistaken identity, or that the communication was merely a joke or fantasy and not a serious request. A solicitation lawyer will analyze the evidence to identify the strongest argument.
Should I speak to the police if they want to ask me questions?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer any questions without your criminal attorney present. Anything you say can be used to establish the intent required for a conviction.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For current guidance on solicitation defense, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (301) 363-4040.
Under Md. Code, Corps. & Assns. § 1-101, state law governs this practice area.
A solicitation charge is one part of a wider defense practice, and our page on sex crimes lawyer Maryland covers how these cases are handled from start to finish.