Criminal Solicitation Lawyer King George County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Criminal solicitation in King George County is a serious offense under Virginia law, often charged as a felony. If you are accused of soliciting another to commit a crime, you need a strong defense. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced representation for those facing criminal solicitation charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | King George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Understanding Criminal Solicitation Charges in Virginia
Criminal solicitation is defined under Virginia law as commanding, encouraging, or requesting another person to engage in conduct that would constitute a felony or a Class 1 misdemeanor. The crime is complete the moment the solicitation is made, regardless of whether the other person agrees or acts. This means you can be charged even if no crime was ever committed. 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 statute is broad and can apply to a wide range of situations, from solicitation of prostitution to more serious conspiracies.
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-29 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for King George County can be found at the King George County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Solicitation of Crime Defense Lawyer King George County
Cases typically begin with an arrest or summons. Your first appearance will be at the King George County General District Court for a bond hearing and preliminary hearing. The Commonwealth’s Attorney will present evidence to show probable cause that you committed the crime of solicitation. A strong defense at this stage can sometimes lead to a dismissal. If the case proceeds, it will be certified to the King George County Circuit Court for a felony trial. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you intentionally encouraged another to commit a specific crime. Evidence often includes communications, witness testimony, and circumstantial evidence.
- Secure legal representation immediately after an arrest or charge.
- Attend the initial hearing at King George County General District Court to address bond.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including communications and witness statements.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a possible reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare for and proceed to a trial in Circuit Court if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Solicitation
In King George County, a criminal solicitation charge carries penalties that mirror the crime solicited, including potential felony convictions with prison time.
| Offense Solicited | Classification of Solicitation | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felony (e.g., murder, robbery) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years, or up to 12 months for Class 6 | Up to $2,500 | Permanent criminal record, loss of professional licenses, firearm restrictions. |
| Class 1 Misdemeanor | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, potential impact on employment and 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, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a solicitation charge can upend your life, and we provide a focused, case-specific defense strategy. Our team includes attorneys with deep knowledge of Virginia’s criminal statutes and local court practices.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results in solicitation cases. For example, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) and reductions for clients facing solicitation of prostitution charges in Northern Virginia courts. In one case, a solicitation of prostitution charge was reduced to disorderly conduct, avoiding a sex crime conviction. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters, Matthew Greene, brings over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, providing critical insight into cases with sensitive allegations.
Criminal Solicitation Defense Near King George County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the King George County courts. We are accessible via Route 3 and Route 301. We provide criminal defense to residents of King George, Dahlgren, and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is criminal solicitation in Virginia?
It is the act of commanding, encouraging, or requesting another person to commit a felony or a Class 1 misdemeanor. The crime is complete upon the communication, regardless of whether the other person acts.
Can I be charged if the person I asked said no?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-29, the offense is the solicitation itself. The other person’s agreement or action is not required for the charge to be filed.
What are the defenses to a criminal solicitation charge?
It depends. Common defenses include lack of intent, entrapment by law enforcement, insufficient evidence that a specific crime was solicited, or that the communication was protected speech. A solicitation of crime defense lawyer King George County can evaluate the specifics of your case.
Is solicitation a felony?
It can be. Soliciting another to commit a felony is itself a felony. Soliciting a Class 1 misdemeanor is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The classification depends entirely on the underlying crime you are accused of soliciting.
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 contact a criminal solicitation charge lawyer King George County immediately.
For more information, see our Virginia Sex Crime Defense hub, or read about related issues for clients in Fairfax County or general criminal defense in King George County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.