Solicitation Defense Lawyer Virginia – Bawdy House Defense | Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What is Solicitation in Virginia?
As of November 2025, the following information applies.
Being accused of solicitation in Virginia can feel like a punch to the gut. It’s a serious charge that carries significant weight, not just legally but personally. In Virginia, solicitation generally refers to the act of offering or agreeing to engage in sexual acts for money or something else of value. It’s often linked to prostitution, but the law can cast a wider net.
Virginia Code § 18.2-346, for instance, addresses prostitution, defining it as any female or male who, for money or other thing of value, provides or offers to provide her or his body for sexual intercourse or any illicit sexual act. Solicitation is the act of trying to get someone to do that. It’s a misdemeanor, but don’t let that fool you; the consequences can impact your life long after the court date. This isn’t just about a fine; it’s about your reputation, your job, and your peace of mind.
Blunt Truth: Many people misunderstand the nuances of solicitation law. It’s not always straightforward, and what might seem like an innocent conversation could be interpreted differently by law enforcement. That’s why understanding the specific elements the prosecution must prove is vital. They’ll need to show there was an offer or agreement, and that it was for an illicit sexual act in exchange for something of value. Without all those pieces, their case weakens.
Takeaway Summary: Solicitation in Virginia involves offering or agreeing to sexual acts for value, often tied to prostitution, and carries serious personal and legal consequences. (Confirmed by Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.)
The charge can also extend to what’s known as keeping or frequenting a bawdy house. Virginia Code § 18.2-347 defines a bawdy house as any place resorted to for the purpose of prostitution or promiscuous sexual intercourse. If you’re accused of frequenting such a place, or even keeping one, you’re looking at similar, if not more severe, penalties. It’s not just about the act itself, but the environment where it allegedly takes place. This can complicate your defense significantly, as prosecutors might try to use circumstantial evidence about the location itself against you.
My experience as a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland gives me a distinct advantage; I know how prosecutors think and build their cases, which helps me craft more effective defenses for my clients. They’re looking for patterns, digital footprints, and witness statements. Understanding their playbook allows us to anticipate their moves and build a strong counter-argument.
It’s important to differentiate solicitation from other related offenses. For example, pandering (Virginia Code § 18.2-356) involves procuring or assisting someone to commit prostitution, while abduction (Virginia Code § 18.2-47) could be involved if force or kidnapping is used in conjunction with a sexual offense. These are distinct charges with different legal thresholds and penalties, highlighting why having an attorney who understands these distinctions is important for your defense.
Takeaway Summary: Solicitation charges in Virginia often intertwine with “bawdy house” laws, broadening the legal scope beyond direct sexual acts. (Confirmed by Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.)
How to Defend Against Solicitation Charges in Virginia?
When you’re hit with a solicitation charge, it feels like the world is collapsing. But you’ve got options. A strong defense can challenge the prosecution’s claims and protect your future. Here’s a basic rundown of how a defense typically works:
- Challenge the Evidence: We’ll scrutinize every piece of evidence the prosecution has. Was there a lack of intent? Was there entrapment by law enforcement? Sometimes, undercover operations can cross the line, pressuring individuals into actions they wouldn’t otherwise take. We look for those cracks.
- Question Witness Credibility: If the case relies on witness testimony, we’ll examine their reliability. Are there inconsistencies in their statements? Do they have a motive to misrepresent facts? A skilled defense can expose weaknesses in testimony.
- Assert Constitutional Rights: Your rights matter. Were you unlawfully searched? Was your arrest conducted properly? Any violation of your Fourth, Fifth, or Sixth Amendment rights could lead to evidence being suppressed, which can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiate with the Prosecution: Depending on the specifics of your case, it might be possible to negotiate for reduced charges or alternative resolutions. This could involve demonstrating mitigating factors or presenting a strong defense argument that makes the prosecution reconsider their stance.
- Prepare for Trial: If a fair resolution can’t be reached, we prepare for trial. This means gathering all necessary documents, interviewing potential witnesses, and crafting a compelling narrative to present to the judge or jury. Having a seasoned defense attorney on your side ensures you’re not going into court unprepared.
I dedicate the majority of my practice to litigation because I thrive in the courtroom environment, advocating for those facing complex criminal, traffic, or family law challenges across both Maryland and Virginia. This means I’m ready to fight for you, no matter how tough the situation seems.
Takeaway Summary: Defending against solicitation involves challenging evidence, questioning witnesses, asserting constitutional rights, negotiating, and preparing for trial. (Confirmed by Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.)
Can I get my Solicitation Charge Expunged in Virginia?
Getting a solicitation charge expunged in Virginia is often a major concern for people looking to put this experience behind them. Expungement means having the records of your arrest and sometimes conviction sealed or destroyed, making them inaccessible to the public. This can be crucial for your future employment, housing, and reputation.
The short answer is: it depends. In Virginia, expungement is generally possible for certain charges if they were dismissed, acquitted, or a nolle prosequi (the prosecution drops the charges) was entered. If you were actually convicted of solicitation, getting an expungement is much more challenging, and in many cases, not possible under current Virginia law unless there was an absolute pardon or other specific legal exceptions apply.
However, even if a full expungement isn’t an option, there might be other ways to mitigate the impact of a conviction on your record. Sometimes, charges can be reduced to a less severe offense, or alternative sentencing might be available that avoids a direct conviction for solicitation. It’s a detailed process that requires careful review of your specific case and the outcome.
As someone active in trial advocacy since law school, I am committed to rigorously defending my clients’ rights, whether they face misdemeanor charges or serious felony allegations. This commitment extends to exploring every possible avenue to protect your record and future, including the possibility of expungement or other forms of relief.
Virginia’s expungement laws are specific and strict. It’s not a DIY project. You need someone who understands the ins and outs, someone who can assess your eligibility and guide you through the process, or advise you on the best alternatives. The goal is always to minimize the long-term repercussions of any charge.
Takeaway Summary: Expunging a solicitation charge in Virginia is possible if the charges were dismissed or acquitted, but highly challenging with a conviction. (Confirmed by Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.)
Why Hire Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?
When you’re facing solicitation charges, you need more than just a lawyer; you need someone who gets what you’re going through and knows how to fight for you. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we understand the pressure and anxiety these charges bring. We’re not here to judge; we’re here to help you get through it.
Our seasoned legal team has a deep understanding of Virginia’s laws concerning solicitation, prostitution, and bawdy house defense. We combine this knowledge with a direct, empathetic approach, ensuring you always know where you stand and what your options are. We work hard to protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
What sets us apart? We focus on personalized defense strategies. No two cases are exactly alike, and we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. From the moment you connect with us, we’ll listen to your story, investigate every detail of your case, and craft a defense tailored to your unique situation. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for you, whether that’s getting charges dismissed, negotiating for reduced penalties, or standing strong for you in court.
We know this is a tough time, and you probably have a million questions. That’s why we offer a confidential case review. It’s a chance for you to talk openly about your situation, understand the legal process, and see how our experienced team can make a real difference. Don’t face these accusations alone. Call now.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q1: What is the penalty for solicitation in Virginia?
- A1: Solicitation in Virginia is typically a misdemeanor, carrying potential penalties like fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. The specific sentence depends on prior offenses and case details.
- Q2: Can I go to jail for a first-offense solicitation charge?
- A2: Yes, even a first-offense solicitation charge in Virginia can result in jail time, though judges often consider other factors. Fines and probation are also common.
- Q3: What’s the difference between solicitation and prostitution?
- A3: Solicitation is the act of offering or agreeing to engage in sexual acts for value. Prostitution is the act of engaging in sexual acts for value. Solicitation precedes the act.
- Q4: How does a bawdy house charge relate to solicitation?
- A4: A bawdy house charge involves maintaining or frequenting a place for prostitution. It’s often linked to solicitation because the acts of offering or agreeing occur within such a location.
- Q5: Can an attorney really help with a solicitation charge?
- A5: Absolutely. An experienced attorney can challenge evidence, assert your rights, and negotiate on your behalf, significantly improving your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Q6: Will a solicitation charge impact my employment?
- A6: Yes, a solicitation conviction can severely impact employment, especially for jobs requiring background checks or professional licenses. It can also harm your reputation.
- Q7: Is entrapment a valid defense for solicitation in Virginia?
- A7: Entrapment can be a valid defense if law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you wouldn’t have otherwise. It requires showing you were not predisposed to the offense.
- Q8: What should I do immediately after being charged with solicitation?
- A8: Immediately seek legal counsel. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Gather any relevant information, but avoid discussing your case with others.
- Q9: How long does a solicitation case typically take in Virginia?
- A9: The duration varies greatly depending on the case’s complexity, court backlog, and whether a plea agreement or trial is pursued. It can range from weeks to many months.
- Q10: What are the long-term consequences of a solicitation conviction?
- A10: Long-term consequences can include difficulty with employment, housing, and professional licensing, damage to reputation, and limitations on certain rights.
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has locations in Virginia in Fairfax, Loudoun, Arlington, Shenandoah and Richmond. In Maryland, our location is in Rockville. In New York, we have a location in Buffalo. In New Jersey, we have a location in Tinton Falls.
Past results do not predict future outcomes.
