Criminal solicitation under Va. Code § 18.2-29 is a serious felony in Dinwiddie County, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. If you are accused of soliciting another to commit a crime, you need a dedicated criminal solicitation lawyer Dinwiddie County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Criminal Solicitation Law
Criminal solicitation is defined under Virginia law as commanding, entreating, or otherwise attempting to persuade another person to commit a felony or a Class 1 misdemeanor, with the intent that the crime be committed. The crime is complete the moment the solicitation is made, regardless of whether the other person agrees or the crime is ever attempted. The statute is broad and can apply to a wide range of underlying offenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-29 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found at the Dinwiddie County Courts website.
Defending a Solicitation Charge in Dinwiddie County
Prosecutors in Dinwiddie County aggressively pursue solicitation charges, especially when linked to other serious crimes. The Commonwealth must prove your specific intent that the crime be committed. Defense often hinges on challenging the evidence of that intent, which may involve text messages, recordings, or witness statements. A solicitation of crime defense lawyer Dinwiddie County must also scrutinize whether the underlying offense qualifies under the statute.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not discuss the case with anyone before speaking with an attorney.
- Case Review & Evidence Analysis: Your lawyer will obtain discovery to review all evidence, including communications and witness statements.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: This may involve challenging intent, lack of a qualifying underlying crime, or entrapment.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your attorney will pursue pre-trial negotiations for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Dinwiddie County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Solicitation
In Dinwiddie County, a criminal solicitation charge carries severe penalties, with the sentence tied to the felony you are accused of soliciting.
| Offense Solicited | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capital Felony | Class 3 Felony | 5-20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent criminal record |
| Non-Capital Felony | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months jail) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of professional licenses, firearm rights |
| Class 1 Misdemeanor | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months jail | Up to $2,500 | Collateral consequences for employment, housing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your 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 approach is grounded in a deep understanding of Virginia criminal law and the local courts. We focus on building a strong, evidence-based defense from the outset to protect your rights and future.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Our Track Record in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. In Dinwiddie County, we have achieved results for clients across all practice areas. For example, our attorneys have successfully negotiated dismissals (nolle prosequi) and reductions in solicitation of prostitution cases in neighboring jurisdictions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Criminal Solicitation Lawyer Near Dinwiddie County
Our Richmond location serves clients in Dinwiddie County and is accessible via I-85, Route 1, and Route 460. We represent individuals in Dinwiddie, McKenney, and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is criminal solicitation in Virginia?
It is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-29. You commit solicitation by asking, commanding, or trying to persuade someone else to commit a felony or Class 1 misdemeanor, with the intent that they actually do it.
Can I be charged if the other person says no?
Yes. The crime is complete upon the solicitation itself. The other person does not have to agree, and the crime does not have to be attempted for you to be charged.
What are common defenses to a solicitation charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include lack of intent, entrapment by law enforcement, or that the underlying act solicited was not a qualifying crime. A criminal solicitation charge lawyer Dinwiddie County can analyze the evidence to identify the strongest defense.
Should I talk to the police if they contact me?
No. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with an attorney. Anything you say can be used as evidence against you.
If you are under investigation or have been charged, contact a criminal solicitation lawyer Dinwiddie County at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today. We offer 24/7 consultations to discuss your case and legal options.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.