Buckingham Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A charge of course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree is a serious felony in Virginia. In Buckingham County, this charge is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-67.2 and carries a potential penalty of 5 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a focused defense for these complex cases.
Virginia Law on Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child
In Virginia, the crime of “course of sexual conduct against a child” is defined under two degrees. The second-degree offense is codified in Va. Code § 18.2-67.2. This statute makes it a felony for a person 18 years of age or older to engage in two or more acts of sexual conduct with a child under the age of 13, when such acts occur over a period of not less than three months. The law firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background provides a distinct perspective on building a defense against such allegations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Buckingham County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute text, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-67.2. For local court procedures, you can contact the Buckingham County Circuit Court.
Defense Strategy and Local Court Process
Defending against a charge of course of sexual conduct requires a multi-faceted approach that challenges the prosecution’s evidence and timeline. In Buckingham County, these cases typically originate with an investigation by the Sheriff’s Office before an arrest warrant is issued. The case will proceed through the General District Court for a preliminary hearing before moving to Circuit Court for trial. A key local procedural fact is that bond is frequently denied for violent sex offenses in Buckingham; if granted, secured bond amounts can be substantial.
- Initial Arrest & Bond Hearing: You will be arrested and taken before a magistrate. A bond hearing in General District Court will determine if you are released pending trial.
- Preliminary Hearing: A hearing is held in Buckingham County General District Court to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The case is presented to a grand jury in Circuit Court, which issues a formal indictment.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your criminal court lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence and compel the prosecution to share all its evidence.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial in Buckingham County Circuit Court, or a negotiated plea may be reached based on the strength of the defense.
- Sentencing & Registration: If convicted, a separate sentencing hearing is held. A felony conviction requires lifetime registration as a sex offender.
Potential Penalties for a Conviction
In Buckingham, a conviction for course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree is a felony punishable by 5 years to life in prison and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child (2nd Degree) | Felony | 5 years to life | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Mandatory lifetime sex offender registration; possible GPS monitoring; loss of professional licenses; restrictions on where you can live and work. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we commit fully to defending your rights and future. We understand that a charge of this magnitude threatens everything you have built. Our approach is to meticulously analyze every piece of evidence, challenge procedural errors, and present a compelling case to protect your liberty.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex sex crimes cases across Virginia. While every case is unique, our strategic approach has led to dismissals, reductions in charges, and acquittals for our clients. Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, we have 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact a Buckingham Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves clients in Buckingham and surrounding communities. We are accessible from Buckingham via major routes like US-60 and State Route 20. If you are searching for a “course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree lawyer near me,” we offer 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your situation.
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: (703) 636-5417 | Local: (804) 294-0919
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between first and second-degree course of sexual conduct against a child?
Yes, there is a key difference. The first-degree charge (Va. Code § 18.2-67.2) involves a victim under 13 and acts of sexual intercourse or sodomy. The second-degree charge involves a victim under 13 and acts of “sexual conduct,” which is a broader term that includes other sexual acts not amounting to intercourse or sodomy. Both are serious felonies.
Can these charges be defended if it’s my word against the child’s?
Yes, a defense is possible. A skilled criminal attorney will challenge the consistency and reliability of the child’s statements, investigate the possibility of coaching or influence, and scrutinize the timeline of allegations. The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and a lack of physical evidence can be a significant weakness in their case.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for this charge?
The preliminary hearing is held in General District Court. The prosecutor must show probable cause that a felony was committed and that you likely committed it. Your defense lawyer can cross-examine the prosecution’s witnesses and may argue to have the charge reduced or dismissed if the evidence is insufficient. It is a critical early stage to challenge the case.
Is lifetime sex offender registration mandatory if convicted?
Yes. A conviction for course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree is a registerable sex offense under Virginia law. Lifetime registration on the public Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry is mandatory, with strict requirements for in-person verification and restrictions on where you can live and work.
Should I speak to the police if they want to interview me?
No. You have the constitutional right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer any questions without your defense lawyer present. Anything you say can be used against you, and investigators are trained to obtain statements that can be damaging, even if you believe you are explaining your innocence.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If you are facing criminal charges defense in Buckingham for a related offense like indecent liberties or aggravated sexual battery, our team can help. We also represent clients in surrounding areas like Buckingham County for other sex crimes. For broader context, see our Virginia Sex Crimes Lawyer hub page. Those facing other serious allegations may need a Buckingham criminal defense lawyer.
If you want to see how a Buckingham case fits into the wider process, our page on course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree lawyer Virginia covers it from start to finish.