Bland VA Unnatural Or Perverted Sexual Practice Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A charge of an unnatural or perverted sexual practice under Va. Code § 18.2-361 is a Class 6 felony in Bland County, carrying 1-5 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these serious allegations. Our criminal attorney team understands the local court procedures and builds a case-specific defense strategy to protect your rights and future.
Virginia Law on Unnatural or Perverted Sexual Practices
The statute prohibiting “crimes against nature” or unnatural sexual acts is found in Va. Code § 18.2-361. This law criminalizes specific sexual acts, including sodomy, regardless of whether the participants are consenting adults. A conviction is a Class 6 felony, punishable by one to five years in prison, or in the discretion of the jury or court, confinement in jail for up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500. Conviction also requires lifetime registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bland County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, refer to the official Virginia Code § 18.2-361. For local court procedures and filing information, contact the Bland County General District Court directly.
Local Court Process for Sex Crime Charges in Bland County
Sex crime charges in Bland County, including those under § 18.2-361, begin in the Bland County General District Court. The initial hearing is an arraignment, where the charge is formally read. For felony charges, a preliminary hearing is held to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to the Bland County Circuit Court for trial. Given the severity of the charge and the lifetime consequences of a conviction, an early and aggressive defense is critical. A skilled Bland VA Unnatural Or Perverted Sexual Practice Lawyer can challenge the evidence and procedural aspects of the case from the outset.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be brought before a magistrate for a bond hearing. An attorney can argue for favorable bond conditions.
- General District Court Arraignment: The formal charge is presented. Your attorney will enter a plea of not guilty.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your defense lawyer will challenge the prosecution’s evidence to try to get the charge dismissed or reduced.
- Circuit Court Proceedings: If the case proceeds, it moves to Circuit Court for pre-trial motions, potential plea negotiations, or trial.
- Trial or Resolution: Your criminal court lawyer will either present your defense at trial or negotiate for the best possible resolution.
- Sentencing & Registration: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the minimum sentence and handle the mandatory sex offender registry requirements.
Potential Penalties for a Conviction
In Bland County, a conviction for an unnatural or perverted sexual practice under § 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 | Mandatory lifetime registration on Virginia Sex Offender Registry; loss of professional licenses; housing restrictions; public notification. |
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 firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We approach each case with the understanding that a sex crime charge carries a significant social stigma and lifelong legal consequences, demanding a meticulous and vigorous defense.
Our Approach to Sex Crime Defense
Our defense strategy begins with a thorough investigation. We scrutinize the circumstances of the allegation, the methods used by law enforcement, and the validity of the evidence. We file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence obtained improperly. In cases where a trial is the best option, we prepare meticulously to challenge the prosecution’s case before a jury. For clients facing these difficult charges, having a dedicated Bland VA Unnatural Or Perverted Sexual Practice Lawyer from our firm means having an advocate who fights to protect your freedom and reputation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact a Bland County Sex Crimes Defense Lawyer
Our Shenandoah Valley location serves Bland County and surrounding communities. We are accessible for clients in the region.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St, Suite 103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
We offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are held by appointment only at our Woodstock location, which serves the Bland area.
FAQs on Unnatural or Perverted Sexual Practice Charges
Is Va. Code § 18.2-361 still enforceable?
Yes. While aspects have been challenged, the statute remains enforceable in Virginia, particularly in cases not involving solely consenting adults.
What is the main defense against this charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include challenging the sufficiency of evidence, proving the act did not violate the statute, or asserting violations of constitutional rights during the investigation. A criminal charges defense lawyer can identify the strongest argument for your case.
Can I avoid sex offender registration if convicted?
No. A conviction under § 18.2-361 carries a mandatory requirement for lifetime registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry.
How long does a case typically take?
A felony sex crime case can take from several months to over a year to resolve, depending on evidence complexity, court schedules, and whether the case goes to trial. The preliminary hearing in General District Court usually occurs within a few months of arrest.
Should I speak to the police without a lawyer?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Exercise these rights immediately and contact a defense lawyer before making any statement.
For related legal assistance, you may also consider our Virginia criminal defense hub, a Wythe County sex crimes lawyer, or a Bland County assault lawyer.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
Bland is one part of a statewide practice, and our page on unnatural or perverted sexual practice lawyer Virginia covers the process from start to finish.