Solicitation Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Solicitation, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Solicitation?

(n) Solicitation is the act by which a person is influenced or otherwise persuaded to do a crime or take part in a criminal activity, without which he may not have involved in the crime. For example offering a big reward for doing a crime.

History and Meaning of Solicitation

The term solicitation has been used in law for centuries and has evolved over time. According to the legal definition, solicitation is the act of enticing, advising, encouraging, or otherwise persuading someone to commit a crime. To be guilty of solicitation, the person must specifically intend for the other person to commit the crime and undertake some action to encourage or facilitate it.

Solicitation can take many forms, from a direct request for criminal behavior to more subtle suggestions or hints. The act of solicitation is itself a crime, even if the person being solicited does not actually commit the crime. The rise of technology has expanded the potential for solicitation to occur online, including through social media and messaging platforms.

Examples of Solicitation

  1. A drug dealer asking someone to sell drugs on their behalf in exchange for a cut of the profits.
  2. A person encouraging someone to engage in prostitution or sex trafficking.
  3. A gang member asking someone to commit a violent crime as part of their initiation into the gang.

Legal Terms Similar to Solicitation

  1. Conspiracy - a crime that involves an agreement between two or more people to commit a crime.
  2. Attempt - occurs when someone takes a substantial step towards committing a crime, even if they are ultimately unsuccessful.
  3. Incitement - a crime that involves encouraging another person to engage in behavior that is illegal or harmful.