Virginia Solicitation of Prostitution: Don’t Let Immigration Consequences Blindside You

As of November 2025, the following information applies.

Being accused of solicitation of prostitution in Virginia is serious enough, but for non-citizens, it carries an entirely different weight due to potential immigration consequences. It’s not just about a criminal charge; it’s about your future in the United States. If you’re a non-citizen facing such an accusation, you’re likely feeling a mix of fear and uncertainty. You’re probably asking yourself, “Will this mean I lose my visa? Will I be deported?” Let’s cut through the legal jargon and get to the blunt truth about what this means for you.

At the Law Offices of SRIS, P.C., we understand these concerns deeply. Our seasoned legal team has a wealth of experience in Virginia criminal and immigration law, and we’re here to help you Handling these complexities with a relatable authority that offers both clarity and reassurance.

What is Solicitation of Prostitution in Virginia?

In Virginia, soliciting prostitution involves inviting, enticing, or requesting another person to engage in sexual intercourse or any obscene act for money or its equivalent. This isn’t just about direct requests; even actions interpreted as seeking to arrange such an encounter can lead to charges. The law, Virginia Code § 18.2-346, is broad and can encompass various scenarios. Additionally, Virginia has strict laws regarding solicitation involving minors, emphasizing the seriousness of such offenses. The virginia solicitation of a minor laws impose severe penalties to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation. Violators may face significant legal repercussions, including hefty fines and imprisonment, underscoring the state’s commitment to safeguarding minors from predatory behavior.

The penalties for a first offense are typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500. Subsequent offenses can lead to more severe penalties. But for someone who isn’t a U.S. citizen, these state-level criminal penalties are just the tip of the iceberg. The real threat often lies in the immigration consequences that can follow, impacting everything from your visa status to your eligibility for naturalization.

Mr. Sris’s Insight: “My focus since founding the firm in 1997 has always been directed towards personally handling the most challenging and complex criminal and family law matters our clients face.” This perfectly illustrates the kind of complex, high-stakes situation where a criminal charge intertwines with your ability to stay in the country. We take these matters to heart because we understand how much is on the line for you.

The Dire Immigration Consequences of a Solicitation Conviction

For non-citizens, a conviction for solicitation of prostitution can trigger severe immigration consequences under federal law. These can range from inadmissibility (meaning you can’t enter or re-enter the U.S.) to deportability (meaning you can be removed from the U.S.). The stakes couldn’t be higher, and understanding these ramifications is paramount.

Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT)

Many solicitation charges, particularly those involving commercialized vice, can be classified as Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT). A conviction for a CIMT, especially if it leads to a jail sentence of six months or more, can make you inadmissible or deportable. What’s considered “moral turpitude” isn’t always clear-cut, which is why having an experienced attorney who can argue against such a classification is invaluable. Understanding the specifics of these laws is crucial for anyone facing charges. For those in Virginia, seeking clarity on the implications of such charges is essential; that’s where “virginia solicitation laws explained” can provide much-needed insights. An attorney well-versed in these legal nuances can help Handling the complexities and potentially mitigate the consequences of a conviction.

Aggravated Felonies and Deportation

While often a misdemeanor at the state level, certain prostitution-related offenses can sometimes be treated as an “aggravated felony” under federal immigration law. This is a particularly harsh designation that almost always leads to mandatory detention and deportation, with very few avenues for relief. Even a conviction for ‘frequenting a bawdy house’ could be misinterpreted, potentially escalating into an aggravated felony depending on federal interpretation and the specific circumstances of the case.

Visa Revocation and Inadmissibility

If you’re on a non-immigrant visa (like a work or student visa), a solicitation conviction can lead to your visa being revoked, and you could be deemed inadmissible. This means you might not be able to renew your visa, or even re-enter the U.S. if you travel abroad. For those seeking a green card or naturalization, such a conviction can be a significant barrier, often leading to denial of your application.

Blunt Truth: The immigration system doesn’t care if it was a misunderstanding or a one-time mistake. A conviction can permanently alter your immigration status and derail your life plans. That’s why it’s crucial to fight these charges vigorously from the very beginning.

How Virginia Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. Can Help

When you’re facing a solicitation of prostitution charge with potential immigration consequences, you need a defense strategy that considers both criminal and immigration law. This isn’t a task for just any lawyer; it requires a deep understanding of how these two complex areas intersect. Counsel at Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. brings extensive experience to the table, fighting to protect both your freedom and your future in the U.S.

Comprehensive Defense Strategy

Our approach is multi-faceted. We’ll meticulously investigate the circumstances of your arrest, challenging the prosecution’s evidence, police procedure, and any constitutional violations. This includes:

• Challenging the arrest: Was there probable cause? Were your rights read?
• Disputing evidence: Questioning the reliability of witness testimony, digital evidence, or any other collected materials.
• Negotiating with prosecutors: Aiming for reduced charges or alternative resolutions that avoid immigration pitfalls, such as amending the charge to something that isn’t a CIMT or aggravated felony.

Mr. Sris’s Insight: “I find my background in accounting and information management provides a unique advantage when handling the intricate financial and technological aspects inherent in many modern legal cases.” This analytical approach is vital in cases where digital evidence or financial transactions play a role, allowing us to scrutinize every detail for your defense.

Mitigating Immigration Impact

Even if a conviction seems inevitable, our work doesn’t stop there. We actively seek to mitigate the immigration consequences by:

• Seeking plea agreements: Negotiating for charges that do not carry adverse immigration effects, like a simple disorderly conduct charge.
• Advising on post-conviction relief: Exploring options like vacating a conviction or seeking a pardon, which could potentially eliminate the immigration consequences.
• Preparing for immigration proceedings: If immigration proceedings become unavoidable, we’ll help you prepare, gather necessary documentation, and represent you to fight for your right to remain in the U.S.

Case Results Illustrating Our Approach

While past results do not predict future outcomes, our experience in these types of cases speaks to our dedication. Here are a few examples of how we’ve helped clients in Virginia facing similar charges:

• In a Fairfax County General District Court case on November 21, 2013, our client’s “Solicitation Of Prostitution” charge (Virginia 18.2-346) was successfully amended to “Visit a Bawdy Place.”
• Another client in Fairfax County General District Court on August 18, 2011, facing a “Solicitation Of Prostitution” charge (Virginia 18.2-346), saw it successfully reduced to “Disorderly Conduct.”
• In a Fairfax County General District Court case on September 9, 2009, a “Solicit Prostitution” charge (Virginia 18.2-346) was amended to “Disorderly Conduct.”
• A client in Fairfax General District Court – Town of Herndon, on September 17, 2014, had their “Solicitation Prostitution” charge (Virginia 18.2-346) amended to “Disorderly Conduct.”
• On November 18, 2014, in Loudoun County General District Court, a client facing “Solicitation of Prostitution” (Virginia 18.2-346) received “No Jail.”

Why Choose Law Offices of SRIS, P.C.?

Choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference. Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. has locations in Fairfax, Ashburn, Arlington, Woodstock, Richmond, Rockville, Buffalo, and Flanders, allowing us to serve clients across Virginia and beyond. We bring not just legal knowledge, but also an empathetic and direct approach to every case. Our team understands the unique challenges clients face, particularly in sensitive legal matters. With our Experienced professionalise in Virginia solicitation defense strategies, we tailor our approach to ensure the best possible outcome for each individual case. Trust us to provide the guidance and support you need throughout the legal process.

Mr. Sris’s Insight: “As someone deeply involved in the community, I believe it’s important to not only practice law but also to actively participate in shaping it…” This community involvement translates into a deeper understanding of how local legal systems operate and how best to advocate for our clients within them. We’re not just your lawyers; we’re your allies.

Don’t let a solicitation charge jeopardize your life and your ability to remain in the U.S. The potential immigration consequences are too serious to face alone. Contact us today for a confidential case review to discuss your situation and explore your defense options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solicitation and Immigration in Virginia

What happens if a non-citizen is convicted of solicitation in Virginia?

If a non-citizen is convicted of solicitation in Virginia, it can lead to severe immigration consequences, potentially including inadmissibility to the U.S. or even deportation. The specific outcome depends on whether the offense is classified as a Crime Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT) or an aggravated felony under federal immigration law, so it’s essential to seek legal guidance immediately.

Can a misdemeanor solicitation charge affect my green card application?

Yes, even a misdemeanor solicitation charge can significantly impact your green card application in Virginia. If the offense is considered a Crime Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT) by immigration authorities, it could result in your application being denied. Seeking an experienced attorney can help you understand the specific risks and strategize your defense to protect your immigration goals.

Is a solicitation conviction always considered a ‘Crime Involving Moral Turpitude’ for immigration?

Not always, but it often is, especially if there’s an element of commercialized vice or a significant sentence. The interpretation can be complex and depends on the specific facts of your case and federal immigration law. An attorney experienced in both criminal and immigration law can argue against such a classification, which is crucial for your immigration status.

What’s the difference between inadmissibility and deportability?

Inadmissibility means you are not allowed to enter or re-enter the United States, often due to certain criminal convictions or other issues. Deportability means you are already in the U.S. but can be legally removed. Solicitation convictions can lead to either, depending on when the offense occurred and your current immigration status, so you need to understand both risks.

Can I still get a U.S. visa if I have a past solicitation conviction?

A past solicitation conviction can make obtaining a U.S. visa challenging, as it may lead to a finding of inadmissibility. However, it’s not always an automatic denial. Depending on the specifics of the conviction and other factors, waivers might be available. It’s important to discuss your situation with a knowledgeable immigration attorney to explore your options.

What defenses are available for solicitation charges in Virginia?

Defenses for solicitation charges in Virginia can include mistaken identity, entrapment by law enforcement, lack of intent, or challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution. Each case is unique, and a thorough investigation of the facts and circumstances is necessary to build a strong defense. Our experienced team can help evaluate the best strategy for you.

How important is it to have a lawyer who understands immigration law for a state criminal charge?

It’s incredibly important. A criminal defense attorney who also understands immigration law can craft a defense strategy that considers both state-level penalties and potential federal immigration consequences. They can work to minimize criminal penalties while also striving to avoid outcomes that could lead to deportation or inadmissibility, protecting your future in the U.S.

What should I do immediately after being charged with solicitation in Virginia?

Immediately after being charged with solicitation in Virginia, you should exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney. Do not discuss your case with anyone until you have legal representation. Contacting an attorney experienced in criminal and immigration law, like Counsel at Law Offices of SRIS, P.C., is your first and most critical step to protect your rights and your future.