Amherst VA Unnatural Or Perverted Sexual Practice Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
An Amherst VA Unnatural Or Perverted Sexual Practice Lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends against charges under Va. Code § 18.2-361, a Class 6 felony carrying 1-5 years in prison and lifetime sex offender registration. Our firm has handled numerous sex crime cases in Amherst County General District Court. If you are facing these serious criminal charges, immediate legal help is critical.
Virginia Law on Unnatural or Perverted Sexual Practices
Virginia law prohibits specific sexual acts defined as “crimes against nature.” The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-361. This law makes it a felony to voluntarily engage in certain sexual acts, including sodomy, with another person. The statute applies regardless of the gender or marital status of the individuals involved. A conviction is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Conviction also mandates lifetime registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry.
Last verified: April 2026 | Amherst County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the official Va. Code § 18.2-361 (Virginia General Assembly). For local court procedures, visit the Amherst County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Sex Crime Charges in Amherst
Sex crime charges in Amherst County begin with an arrest or summons. The case is first heard in Amherst County General District Court for a preliminary hearing. At this stage, the court determines if there is probable cause to certify the felony charge to the Circuit Court. Bond decisions are made here, and they can be stringent for sex offenses. If certified, the case proceeds to Amherst County Circuit Court for indictment by a grand jury and potential trial. The entire process from arrest to resolution can take many months, often extended by the need for forensic evidence review.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be booked and have a bond hearing in General District Court.
- Preliminary Hearing: The Commonwealth must show probable cause for the felony charge.
- Grand Jury Indictment: If certified, a grand jury in Circuit Court will review evidence for an indictment.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: You will formally enter a plea of not guilty in Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your defense lawyer files motions to suppress evidence and reviews all discovery.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for a Conviction
In Amherst, a conviction for an unnatural or perverted sexual practice under Va. Code § 18.2-361 is a Class 6 felony with penalties of 1-5 years in prison and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unnatural or Perverted Sexual Practice (Va. Code § 18.2-361) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Lifetime sex offender registration, GPS monitoring possible, loss of professional licenses, housing restrictions. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team understands the high stakes of sex crime allegations. Mr. Sris has a background in accounting and information systems, providing a unique advantage in cases involving digital or financial evidence. We approach each case with a focused, case-specific strategy.
Our Approach to Sex Crime Cases
Our firm has a documented record of handling sex crime defenses across Virginia. We examine every detail, from the legality of the investigation and search to the reliability of witness statements and forensic evidence. We work with independent experts when necessary to challenge the prosecution’s case. Our goal is to protect your rights and seek the best possible resolution, which may include case dismissal, charge reduction, or an acquittal at trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact a Local Defense Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves Amherst County and is accessible for case consultations. We are a defense lawyer near Amherst ready to help. We serve clients in Amherst and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “unnatural or perverted sexual practice” mean in Virginia law?
It depends. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-361, historically criminalized sodomy and other specific acts. While parts have been invalidated, it is still enforced in certain contexts, particularly those involving public conduct, minors, or lack of consent. An Amherst VA Unnatural Or Perverted Sexual Practice Lawyer can analyze how the law applies to your specific situation.
Can I go to jail for a first-time offense?
Yes. A conviction under this statute is a Class 6 felony, which carries a potential prison sentence of 1 to 5 years. The court has discretion to impose a jail sentence of up to 12 months instead.
Will I have to register as a sex offender?
Yes. A conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-361 requires lifetime registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry, with all the associated public and private restrictions.
What should I do if I am under investigation?
Do not speak to law enforcement without a criminal attorney present. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a defense lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you, and early legal guidance is crucial to protect your rights during an investigation.
What are common defenses to these charges?
Defenses can include challenging the legality of the search or arrest, disputing witness credibility, proving consent where applicable, or demonstrating mistaken identity. A skilled criminal charges defense lawyer will investigate all angles to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
How long does a sex crime case take?
These cases are complex. From arrest to final resolution in Circuit Court can take 9 months to over a year. Timelines extend with pre-trial motions, evidence review, and court scheduling. Your criminal court lawyer can provide a more specific estimate based on the details of your case.
Related Pages: For more information, see our Virginia Sex Crimes Lawyer hub. For help with other charges in Amherst, consider a Traffic Lawyer in Amherst, VA or a Criminal Lawyer in Amherst, VA.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If your case reaches beyond Amherst, our page on unnatural or perverted sexual practice charges across Virginia sets out what to look for at each stage.