Sussex County Indecent Liberties With A Child Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
An indecent liberties with a child charge under Va. Code § 18.2-370 is a Class 6 felony in Sussex County, carrying 1 to 5 years in prison and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these serious allegations.
Virginia Law on Indecent Liberties With A Child
Virginia law defines the crime of indecent liberties with a child under Va. Code § 18.2-370. This statute makes it illegal for a person 18 years or older to propose, suggest, or take any indecent liberty with a child under the age of 15 for the purpose of sexually arousing or gratifying any person. The law is broad and can encompass various actions, not just physical contact, including lewd proposals or communications.
Last verified: April 2026 | Sussex County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We approach each case with the understanding that a conviction for this charge carries a permanent stigma and life-altering restrictions.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact statutory language, refer to the official Va. Code § 18.2-370 (official Virginia General Assembly). For Sussex County court procedures, visit the Virginia Courts website for Sussex County General District Court.
Local Defense Strategy in Sussex County
In Sussex County, these cases are prosecuted aggressively. An early and strategic defense is critical. The prosecution must prove your intent and the specific nature of the alleged liberty. We immediately scrutinize the evidence, challenge the credibility of the allegations, and explore all procedural defenses.
- Immediate Case Review: Contact our firm immediately after arrest or learning of an investigation. We secure all evidence and police reports.
- Investigation Launch: Our team conducts an independent investigation, interviewing witnesses and reviewing digital or forensic evidence.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We file motions to suppress evidence obtained improperly or challenge the sufficiency of the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, we pursue negotiations for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare a vigorous defense for trial.
Potential Penalties for Indecent Liberties With A Child in Virginia
In Sussex County, a conviction for indecent liberties with a child is a Class 6 felony with severe, long-term consequences beyond incarceration.
| 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 | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Mandatory lifetime registration on Virginia Sex Offender Registry; possible GPS monitoring; loss of professional licenses; housing restrictions. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Sex Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes attorneys with decades of experience handling sensitive and detailed sex crime cases. We understand the technical defenses, from challenging forensic evidence to protecting your constitutional rights during interrogations. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients across Virginia.
Our secondary attorney on this matter, Matthew Greene, brings over 30 years of defense experience, including a former 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, providing unique insight into how these cases are investigated and presented.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide record across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. While every case is unique, our approach is consistent: we build a defense focused on the specific facts and legal weaknesses in the prosecution’s case against you.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Sussex County Sex Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves Sussex and surrounding communities. We are accessible for clients throughout the region. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings scheduled by appointment. If you need an indecent liberties with a child lawyer near Sussex, contact us as early as possible to discuss your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “indecent liberties” mean in Virginia law?
It depends. Under Va. Code § 18.2-370, it involves a person 18+ proposing or taking any indecent liberty with a child under 15 for sexual arousal or gratification. This can include suggestive communication, exposure, or inappropriate touching, not just physical contact. The specific facts determine if the act meets the legal definition.
Is indecent liberties with a child a felony in Virginia?
Yes. It is classified as a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500. A conviction also mandates lifetime registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry.
Can these charges be reduced or dismissed?
It depends on the evidence. A skilled sex crime attorney can challenge the prosecution’s case by disputing intent, witness credibility, or the legality of evidence collection. Successful pre-trial motions or negotiations can sometimes lead to reduced charges or dismissal, avoiding the felony conviction and registry requirements.
What should I do if I am under investigation?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Immediately contact a sex charges lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you. An attorney can advise you on your rights, potentially intervene before charges are filed, and begin building your defense strategy.
What is the sex offender registry in Virginia?
It is a public database managed by the Virginia State Police. Lifetime registration for this felony requires providing personal information (address, photo, offense details) to law enforcement, with restrictions on where you can live, work, and travel. Public access to this registry has significant personal and professional consequences.
Virginia Sex Crime Lawyer | Surry County Sex Crime Lawyer | Sussex County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding indecent liberties with a child charges.
For the background behind a Sussex charge, our page explains how Virginia courts handle a indecent liberties with a child charge.