Solicitation Of Prostitution Virginia — What Are the Penalties and Defenses?
Solicitation of prostitution in Virginia is a serious sex crime under Va. Code § 18.2-346, classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction also requires registration on the Virginia Sex Offender Registry. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Law on Solicitation of Prostitution
In Virginia, the crime of solicitation of prostitution is defined by statute. It involves offering or agreeing to pay a fee to another person for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts. The law targets the act of proposing the transaction, not its completion. The statute is part of Virginia’s broader effort to criminalize commercial sexual activity.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a deep understanding of how these charges are investigated and prosecuted across Virginia courts.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-346 (official Virginia General Assembly site). For court-specific procedures and forms, visit the Virginia Judicial System website.
Defending Against Solicitation Charges in Virginia
Charges for solicitation of prostitution in Virginia often arise from police sting operations. An undercover officer may pose as a sex worker, and any agreement to exchange money for a sex act can lead to arrest. The prosecution must prove you knowingly and intentionally made the offer or agreement.
- Secure Legal Representation Immediately: Do not discuss the case with anyone. Contact a sex crime lawyer from our firm for a confidential consultation.
- Case Review and Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all police reports, body camera footage, and communication records to assess the strength of the prosecution’s case.
- Identify Defense Strategies: Potential defenses include lack of intent, entrapment, insufficient evidence, or challenging the legality of the police operation.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will either negotiate for a reduction or dismissal of charges or prepare a vigorous defense for trial.
- Address Collateral Consequences: If a conviction occurs, your attorney will guide you through the sex offender registration process and explore options for appeal or modification.
Penalties for Solicitation of Prostitution in Virginia
In Virginia, a conviction for solicitation of prostitution is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying significant penalties, including mandatory sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solicitation of Prostitution (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months in jail | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Mandatory registration on Virginia Sex Offender Registry |
| Solicitation of Prostitution (Subsequent Offense) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Mandatory registration on Virginia Sex Offender Registry |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Sex Crime Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the severe personal and professional consequences of a solicitation of prostitution conviction and fight to protect your future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In sex crime cases, favorable outcomes can include case dismissals, reduction of felony charges to misdemeanors, or acquittals at trial. For instance, our attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience and a former contract with Child Protective Services, brings critical insight into defending against sexually related allegations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Virginia Sex Crime Defense Lawyer Near You
Our firm serves clients across Virginia. For solicitation of prostitution charges defense, contact us for a 24/7 phone consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (Solicitation of Prostitution VA)
Is solicitation of prostitution a felony in Virginia?
No, a first offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, a second or subsequent conviction becomes a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1-5 years in prison.
Do I have to register as a sex offender for a solicitation conviction?
Yes. A conviction for solicitation of prostitution under Va. Code § 18.2-346 requires mandatory registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry.
What is the most common defense to solicitation charges?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include entrapment (where police overreach induces the crime), lack of evidence proving a specific agreement, or mistaken identity. A skilled sex charges defense lawyer can identify the best strategy after reviewing all evidence.
Can undercover police officers legally solicit people for prostitution?
Yes. Law enforcement is permitted to conduct sting operations to enforce prostitution laws. However, they cannot use coercive or overly persuasive tactics that could constitute entrapment, which is a valid legal defense.
What should I do if I am arrested for solicitation?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Do not answer questions or try to explain yourself. Contact a sex crime defense attorney immediately to begin building your defense and protecting your rights.