Bedford VA 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 in Bedford, Virginia, is a severe Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-67.2:1, carrying 1 to 10 years in prison and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Law on Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child in the Second Degree
In Virginia, the crime of “course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree” is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-67.2:1. 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 who is less than 13 years old over a period of not less than three months. “Sexual conduct” is broadly defined and includes any touching of the child’s intimate parts, or the defendant’s intimate parts by the child, for the purpose of sexual gratification. This charge is distinct from a single incident; it alleges a pattern of abuse over time, which prosecutors often build using testimony about behavioral changes, disclosures, and forensic interviews.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the exact statutory language, refer to the official Va. Code § 18.2-67.2:1 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures and filings for Bedford County cases are handled through the Bedford County General District Court website.
Defending a Course of Conduct Charge in Bedford County
These cases are aggressively prosecuted by the Bedford County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. A successful defense requires challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove the required elements: the specific acts, the timeframe, and the intent for sexual gratification. Often, the case hinges on the child’s testimony and forensic interview evidence. A criminal court lawyer must meticulously review discovery, including any medical or counseling records, and may consult with child interview experts to identify suggestibility or contamination. The defense strategy often focuses on attacking the consistency and reliability of the allegations over the alleged three-month period.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Contact a lawyer experienced in sex crime defense.
- Case Assessment & Discovery Review: Your attorney will obtain all police reports, forensic interview videos, and CPS records to evaluate the prosecution’s evidence.
- Investigation & experienced Consultation: A defense investigation may be conducted, potentially involving experts in forensic interviewing or child psychology to challenge the evidence.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the admissibility of the child’s statements if proper procedures were not followed.
- Negotiation or Trial Strategy: Based on the evidence, your attorney will advise on the possibility of a plea negotiation to a lesser charge or prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Bedford County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for a Conviction
In Bedford County, a conviction for course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree carries a prison sentence of 1 to 10 years and mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child in the 2nd Degree (Va. Code § 18.2-67.2:1) | Class 5 Felony | 1 – 10 years in prison | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Mandatory lifetime sex offender registration under Va. Code § 9.1-901; 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.
Our Experience in Bedford County Sex Crime 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 firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes of a course of conduct charge and provide a focused, strategic defense. Our approach is “Advocacy Without Borders,” meaning we commit fully to defending your rights and future against these serious allegations.
Case Results & Defense Approach
While every case is unique, our defense strategy for course of conduct charges involves a detailed challenge to the timeline and specifics of the allegations. We scrutinize forensic interviews for skilled questions, investigate alternative explanations for a child’s statements, and work to expose inconsistencies. In Bedford County, we have documented results in sex crime cases, including charges that were reduced or amended. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every angle is explored.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Bedford County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location — 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients facing charges at the Bedford County courts (123 East Main Street). We are accessible via Route 460, Route 122, Route 221, and Route 24. As a local Bedford VA course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree lawyer near the National D-Day Memorial and Smith Mountain Lake, we provide accessible representation for residents of Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747 — meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the penalty for a sex crime in Bedford County, Virginia?
Penalties are severe. For example, rape (§ 18.2-61) carries 5 years to life. Course of sexual conduct charges carry 1-10 years. Most convictions require lifetime sex offender registration. Cases are heard at Bedford County General District Court.
Do I have to register as a sex offender in Bedford County, Virginia?
Most felony sex crime convictions in Virginia require lifetime registration under Va. Code § 9.1-901. This involves reporting your address, employment, and vehicle to law enforcement. A primary goal of your defense is often to avoid a conviction that triggers this mandatory requirement.
How long does a sex crime case take in Bedford County, Virginia?
It depends on the case complexity. A typical timeline from arrest to trial can range from 3 to 12 months. Preliminary hearings occur in General District Court within 21-60 days. Cases involving forensic evidence like DNA can take longer.
What should I do if charged with a sex crime in Bedford County?
Contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not speak to police or investigators without your lawyer. Call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a confidential consultation. We provide defense against criminal charges.
What is the difference between first and second-degree course of sexual conduct charges?
The key difference is the age of the child and the severity of the acts. First-degree (Va. Code § 18.2-67.2) involves a child under 13 and more aggravated conduct, carrying 5 years to life. Second-degree involves a child under 13 for less aggravated acts, carrying 1-10 years.
Can these charges be fought if it’s one person’s word against another?
Yes. While challenging, a defense can focus on witness credibility, lack of corroborating evidence, motive to fabricate, and inconsistencies in the timeline of alleged events. A skilled defense lawyer will work to create reasonable doubt.
If you need a dedicated Bedford VA course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree lawyer, contact us. For other legal needs in the area, consider our Bedford criminal defense lawyer or Bedford DUI lawyer services. For a broader view of our sex crime defense practice, visit our Virginia sex crime defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
If you want to see how a Bedford 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.