Criminal Solicitation Lawyer Augusta County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Criminal solicitation in Augusta County is a serious offense under Virginia law, often charged as a felony. If you are accused of soliciting another person to commit a crime, you need a strong defense. A criminal solicitation lawyer Augusta County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can protect your rights. Our firm has documented case results in Augusta County. We provide 24/7 phone consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Criminal Solicitation
Criminal solicitation is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-29. The law makes it illegal to command, entreat, or otherwise attempt to persuade another person to commit a felony or a Class 1 misdemeanor. The charge is separate from the underlying crime; you can be convicted of solicitation even if the other person never attempts or completes the requested act. The severity of the charge depends on the crime you are accused of soliciting. Soliciting a felony is itself a felony, while soliciting a Class 1 misdemeanor is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The prosecution must prove you had the specific intent for the other person to commit the crime.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, review Va. Code § 18.2-29 (official Virginia General Assembly). Criminal solicitation cases in Augusta County are heard at the Augusta County General District Court for preliminary matters and may proceed to Circuit Court for felony trials.
Augusta County Court Process for Solicitation Charges
In Augusta County, a criminal solicitation charge typically begins with an arrest or a summons. The case starts in Augusta County General District Court for a bond hearing and a preliminary hearing if it is a felony charge. Prosecutors must present evidence that you intentionally sought to have another person commit a crime. This often involves reviewing communications, witness statements, and context. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Augusta County handles these cases. A strong defense challenges the intent element and the sufficiency of the evidence.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will request discovery, including all police reports and digital evidence.
- A motion to suppress evidence may be filed if your rights were violated during the investigation.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor, often seeking a reduction or dismissal based on lack of intent.
- If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a preliminary hearing and potentially a trial in Circuit Court.
- Throughout the process, your attorney will advise you on the implications for your record and any collateral consequences.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Solicitation
In Augusta County, criminal solicitation penalties mirror those for the crime solicited, including potential felony convictions, jail time, and fines.
| Solicitation Of | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Collateral Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felony (e.g., robbery, arson) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years in prison | Up to $2,500 | Loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment, professional license implications. |
| Class 1 Misdemeanor (e.g., assault, petit larceny) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months in jail | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, possible impact on immigration status, professional repercussions. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Augusta County Criminal Solicitation Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of case results. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your situation. We understand that a solicitation charge can stem from misunderstandings or lack of context, and we work to present the full story to the court.
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
Documented Case Experience
Our firm has a history of handling solicitation-related charges. For example, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) and reductions for clients charged with solicitation of prostitution in Northern Virginia courts. In one case, a solicitation of prostitution charge was reduced to disorderly conduct, a much less serious offense. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Founding attorney Mr. Sris provides strategic oversight on complex cases, bringing his background as a former prosecutor and his decades of experience.
Criminal Solicitation Defense Near Augusta County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Augusta County courts in Staunton. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. If you need a criminal solicitation charge lawyer Augusta County, contact us for a consultation. We serve the communities of Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville.
Available 24/7 | By Appointment Only
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St #103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Frequently Asked Questions
What is criminal solicitation in Virginia?
It is the act of asking, commanding, or trying to persuade someone else to commit a felony or a Class 1 misdemeanor. You can be charged even if the other person says no or never acts on it.
Is solicitation a felony in Virginia?
It depends. Soliciting someone to commit a felony is itself a felony. Soliciting a Class 1 misdemeanor is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The penalty class matches the crime you are accused of soliciting.
What evidence is used in solicitation cases?
Prosecutors often use text messages, emails, social media messages, recorded conversations, or witness testimony. They must prove you had the intent for the other person to actually commit the crime, not just make a joke or idle threat.
Can a solicitation charge be dropped?
Yes. Defenses can include lack of intent, entrapment by law enforcement, insufficient evidence, or showing that the communication was taken out of context. An experienced criminal solicitation defense lawyer Augusta County can evaluate the evidence for weaknesses.
Should I talk to the police if I’m investigated for solicitation?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and request to speak with a lawyer immediately.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.