DC Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A charge of engaging in a course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree in the District of Columbia is a serious felony under D.C. Code § 22-3008.01. This charge involves multiple acts over time and carries severe penalties.
Understanding the Statute: D.C. Code § 22-3008.01
In the District of Columbia, the crime of “Course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree” is defined under D.C. Official Code § 22-3008.01. This statute makes it illegal for a person 18 years of age or older to engage in two or more acts of sexual contact, or in a combination of such acts, with a child under the age of 16 over a period of time, not less than 3 months in duration, with intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, degrade, or arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of the District of Columbia | D.C. Council.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to D.C. Code § 22-3008.01 (official D.C. Council website). For court procedures and information, visit the District of Columbia Courts website.
The Local Defense Process in DC Superior Court
These cases are prosecuted in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, often by the Sex Offense and Domestic Violence Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The prosecution must prove a pattern of conduct over time, which often relies heavily on the testimony of the alleged child victim and any corroborating evidence. A strong defense challenges the reliability of this evidence and the narrative of a sustained “course of conduct.”
- Immediately secure legal representation and exercise your right to remain silent.
- Your attorney will file a motion for discovery to obtain all prosecution evidence, including forensic reports and interview records.
- A pre-trial motion may be filed to challenge the admissibility of evidence or the sufficiency of the “course of conduct” allegation.
- Your defense lawyer will engage in strategic plea negotiations, often seeking to reduce the charge or the number of alleged acts.
- If the case proceeds to trial, your attorney will present a defense challenging the credibility of witnesses and the prosecution’s ability to prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt.
Potential Penalties for a Conviction
In the District of Columbia, a conviction for course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Registration | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child in the 2nd Degree | Felony | Up to 10 years | Court-determined | Mandatory sex offender registration | Supervised release, loss of professional licenses, restrictions on residence and employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Defending Against Serious Sex Crime Allegations
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings decades of combined experience to the defense of individuals accused of serious felonies. Our approach is grounded in a thorough investigation and an aggressive challenge to the prosecution’s evidence. We understand that a charge of this nature is life-altering, and we work to protect your rights and future at every stage. Our defense lawyer team is prepared to handle the intense scrutiny of these cases.
Building a Defense Strategy
When building a defense against a charge of course of sexual conduct, a criminal court lawyer must attack the foundation of the allegation. This includes examining the context of the accuser’s statements, looking for inconsistencies over time, reviewing the methods used by investigators during interviews, and challenging any physical or digital evidence. The goal is to create reasonable doubt that the alleged pattern of conduct occurred as described. Our team, including attorney Matthew Greene, who has extensive experience with complex criminal and CPS-related cases, scrutinizes every detail.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our DC Sex Crimes Defense Team
If you are under investigation or have been charged, time is of the essence. Our District Of Columbia course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree lawyer is ready to begin building your defense immediately. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between first and second-degree course of sexual conduct in DC?
It depends on the age of the child and the specific acts alleged. First-degree charges under § 22-3008 typically involve a child under 13 or specific aggravating factors and carry higher penalties. A second-degree charge under § 22-3008.01 involves a child under 16. A criminal attorney can explain how the specifics of your case affect the charges.
Can these charges be filed based on the testimony of one child?
Yes. The prosecution’s case often rests primarily on the account of the alleged victim. However, they must still prove each element of the crime, including the pattern over time, beyond a reasonable doubt. A defense lawyer will challenge the reliability and consistency of that testimony.
What does “course of conduct” mean in this law?
It means two or more acts of sexual contact occurring over a period of at least three months. The prosecution must prove this pattern existed, which is different from proving a single, isolated incident. This is a key area for a defense to attack.
Is a plea bargain possible in these cases?
Yes. While these are serious charges, negotiations are often a critical part of the process. An experienced criminal charges defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors, potentially to reduce the charge, limit the number of alleged acts, or agree on a sentencing recommendation.
Why is immediate legal help so important?
From the moment you are suspected, every interaction can be used against you. An attorney ensures your rights are protected during questioning, guides you on what not to say, and begins collecting evidence to counter the allegations before the prosecution’s case is solidified.
Related Content: If you are facing other serious charges, you may need a DC sexual abuse lawyer or a DC criminal defense lawyer. For charges in neighboring areas, see our Virginia sex crimes lawyer page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding a District Of Columbia course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree charge.