Indecent Liberties With A Child Lawyer Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Indecent liberties with a child is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-370, carrying 1 to 5 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides immediate legal help for these serious charges. Our firm, founded in 1997, has a documented record of handling complex sex crime cases across Virginia.
Virginia Law on Indecent Liberties With A Child
Virginia Code § 18.2-370 defines the crime of taking indecent liberties with a child. The statute makes it illegal for any person 18 years of age or older to, with lascivious intent, knowingly and intentionally commit certain acts with a child under the age of 15. This includes proposing that the child feel or fondle the adult’s sexual or genital parts, or that the adult feel or fondle the child’s sexual or genital parts. The law also prohibits proposing that the child expose his or her sexual or genital parts to the adult, or that the adult expose his or her sexual or genital parts to the child.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-370 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures and filing information can be found on the Virginia Judicial System website.
Virginia Court Process for Indecent Liberties Charges
An arrest for indecent liberties with a child initiates a high-stakes legal process. The case typically begins in a local General District Court for a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause to certify the felony charge to Circuit Court. Given the severity, bond is often contested, and prosecutors may seek to have it denied or set at a very high amount with strict conditions like no contact with minors and GPS monitoring.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate for a bond hearing shortly after arrest.
- Secure Legal Representation: Immediately retain an experienced sex crimes defense attorney. Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your attorney will challenge the prosecution’s evidence in General District Court within a few weeks.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is certified, you will be formally charged and enter a plea in Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence and compel the prosecution to share all its evidence.
- Trial or Resolution: The case will proceed to a jury trial or be resolved through negotiation, often requiring registration as a sex offender.
Penalties for Indecent Liberties With A Child in Virginia
In Virginia, a conviction for indecent liberties with a child is a Class 6 felony punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, or at the court’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indecent Liberties with a Child (Va. Code § 18.2-370) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) | Up to $2,500 | None directly, but may affect professional licenses | Mandatory registration on Virginia Sex Offender Registry; potential GPS monitoring; loss of child custody/visitation; housing restrictions. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
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 understand that an accusation of this nature is devastating, affecting your reputation, family, and future. We approach each case with a detailed strategy focused on challenging the prosecution’s evidence, particularly the intent element (“lascivious intent”) and the credibility of the allegations.
Our Approach to Indecent Liberties Cases
Our documented firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In sex crime defenses, our legal help often involves a multi-front strategy: attacking the lack of physical evidence, demonstrating an alternative innocent explanation for the alleged conduct, and challenging violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation. We work closely with independent forensic experts when necessary.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Virginia Charges
Facing an indecent liberties charge requires an attorney who knows the local courts. As a Virginia indecent liberties with a child lawyer, we provide defense across the state. Our main office is in Fairfax, and we serve clients in all communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “lascivious intent” mean in an indecent liberties charge?
It depends. Virginia courts define “lascivious intent” as a state of mind that is wicked, lustful, and focused on sexual gratification. The prosecution must prove this specific intent existed, which is often a key point for the defense to challenge, as it distinguishes criminal conduct from potentially innocent or accidental touching.
Can I be charged if the child consented?
No. Under Virginia law, a child under the age of 15 cannot legally consent to any of the acts described in the indecent liberties statute. The law is designed to protect children, so even if the child agreed or initiated contact, it is not a valid defense to the charge.
What is the sex offender registry requirement?
A conviction for indecent liberties with a child under Va. Code § 18.2-370 requires mandatory registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry. For a first-time Class 6 felony conviction, registration is typically for life. This places severe public restrictions on where you can live, work, and go.
Is indecent liberties the same as sexual battery?
No. Sexual battery (Va. Code § 18.2-67.4) is generally a Class 1 misdemeanor involving unwanted sexual touching. Indecent liberties is a specific felony statute that applies only to acts committed by an adult against a child under 15 with lascivious intent. The penalties and consequences are more severe for indecent liberties.
Should I talk to the police if they contact me?
No. You have the absolute right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You should politely decline to answer any questions and immediately seek legal help. Anything you say can be misconstrued and will be used against you. Contact a lawyer before speaking to anyone about the accusation.
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Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.