Virginia Criminal Solicitation Lawyer — What Are the Penalties?
Criminal solicitation in Virginia is a serious offense where you are accused of trying to persuade another person to commit a felony. As a Virginia criminal solicitation lawyer, we know these charges carry severe penalties, including potential prison time. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these allegations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
What Is Criminal Solicitation Under Virginia Law?
Criminal solicitation is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-29. The statute makes it a crime to command, entreat, or otherwise attempt to persuade another person to commit a felony. The key element is your intent—the prosecution must prove you specifically intended for the other person to commit the serious crime. You do not need to offer payment or for the other person to agree for the crime to be complete. The act of solicitation itself is the offense. A skilled criminal attorney can challenge the evidence of your intent and the specifics of the alleged communication.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to Virginia Code § 18.2-29 (official Virginia General Assembly website). For information on court procedures, visit the Virginia Judicial System website.
Defending Against Solicitation Charges in Virginia
Virginia treats solicitation to commit a felony as a serious offense. The specific court you face depends on the felony you are accused of soliciting. A defense lawyer will examine every detail of your case. Common defense strategies include arguing a lack of specific intent, demonstrating that the communication was misinterpreted, or challenging the legality of how evidence was obtained. In many jurisdictions, undercover operations are used in these cases, and the methods can be scrutinized.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Do not discuss the case with anyone before speaking with a Virginia criminal solicitation lawyer. Your statements can be used against you.
- Case Analysis: Your attorney will obtain all evidence, including police reports, recordings, and witness statements, to assess the prosecution’s case.
- Develop Defense Strategy: Based on the evidence, your defense lawyer will build a strategy, which may involve filing pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your attorney will engage with the prosecutor, seeking a reduction or dismissal. If a fair plea cannot be reached, they will prepare to defend you at trial.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Solicitation in Virginia
In Virginia, criminal solicitation is punished as a Class 6 felony, which carries a penalty of 1 to 5 years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Solicitation (to commit a felony) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, loss of professional licenses, firearm rights, and difficulty securing employment/housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Virginia Sex Crime Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, 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 complex nature of sex crime allegations like criminal solicitation. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your rights and future.
Case Results and Defense Approach
Our defense team, led by Mr. Sris with support from attorney Matthew Greene, who has over 30 years of experience including former death penalty certification, tackles solicitation charges head-on. We examine the intent behind the communication and the methods used by law enforcement. Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, we have 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Virginia Criminal Solicitation Defense Near You
Facing criminal charges defense requires immediate action from a knowledgeable criminal court lawyer. Our Virginia location is accessible to clients across the state. We serve all Virginia communities and are a trusted criminal solicitation lawyer near Virginia residents. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is criminal solicitation a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Soliciting another person to commit a felony is itself a Class 6 felony under Virginia law, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison.
What does the prosecution need to prove for a solicitation charge?
It depends. The prosecution must prove you intentionally commanded, entreated, or attempted to persuade another person to commit a specific felony. They must show your specific intent that the crime be carried out, not just a casual statement.
Can I be charged if the person I asked said no?
Yes. The crime of solicitation is complete the moment you make the request with the required intent. The other person’s agreement or refusal is not an element of the offense under Va. Code § 18.2-29.
What are common defenses to a solicitation charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent, entrapment by law enforcement, misinterpretation of communication, and insufficient evidence. A strong defense lawyer will analyze the context of all statements and the methods of investigation.
Should I talk to the police if they contact me about solicitation?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a Virginia criminal solicitation lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you.
Related Pages: For more information on related charges, see our pages on Virginia Sex Crimes Lawyer, Sex Crime Lawyer Fairfax VA, and Traffic Lawyer Virginia.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.