Carnal Knowledge Of A Child 13 Or 14 Lawyer Virginia — What Are Your Legal Defenses?
A charge of carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 in Virginia is a Class 4 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-63, carrying 2 to 10 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides immediate legal help for this severe accusation. Contact our Virginia attorney for a confidential legal consultation to discuss your defense.
Virginia Law on Carnal Knowledge of a Child 13 or 14
The crime of carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-63. This statute makes it unlawful for any person 18 years of age or older to carnally know, without the use of force, a child who is 13 or 14 years old. The law specifies that the act must be consensual in the sense that force, threat, or intimidation is not used, but consent is not a legal defense due to the child’s age. This is distinct from rape or aggravated sexual battery, which involve force or threats.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-63 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures and forms, visit the Virginia Judicial System website.
Understanding the Charge and Local Court Process
This charge is prosecuted in the Circuit Court of the county or city where the alleged act occurred. As a felony, the case begins with a preliminary hearing in General District Court to determine probable cause before moving to Circuit Court for trial or plea. Given the sensitive nature of these cases, local prosecutors often pursue them aggressively.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You will be arrested and taken before a magistrate for a bond hearing. Bond conditions often include no contact with the alleged victim and their family.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your attorney can challenge the evidence at a hearing in General District Court within 21-60 days of arrest.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is certified, you will be formally charged and enter a plea in Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence and obtain all police reports, interviews, and digital evidence from the prosecution.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a potential reduction or alternative disposition. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing & Registration: A conviction mandates prison time and lifetime registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry.
Penalties for Carnal Knowledge of a Child 13 or 14 in Virginia
In Virginia, a conviction for carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 is a Class 4 felony with a penalty range of 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carnal Knowledge of a Child 13 or 14 (Va. Code § 18.2-63) | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Mandatory lifetime sex offender registration; possible GPS monitoring; loss of professional licenses; difficulty finding housing/employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Legal Experience for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to complex sex crime defenses. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes and social stigma attached to these charges and provide a strategic, discreet defense focused on challenging the evidence and protecting your future.
Case Results and Defense Approach
Our legal team, including attorney Matthew Greene who brings over 30 years of experience including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, approaches these cases with precision. We meticulously analyze the prosecution’s evidence, including the minor’s statements, forensic interviews, and any digital communications. We explore all defenses, such as mistaken identity, false allegations, or challenging the validity of a confession. Our goal is to seek a dismissal or reduction of charges where possible.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Virginia Sex Crime Defense Lawyers
Our firm provides legal help across Virginia. For a carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 charge, immediate action is critical.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations available.
We serve clients in all Virginia communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between carnal knowledge and statutory rape in Virginia?
It is essentially the same concept. “Carnal knowledge” is the term used in the Virginia Code (§ 18.2-63) for what is commonly called statutory rape—sexual intercourse with a minor who is 13 or 14 years old by someone 18 or older, regardless of apparent consent.
Can the minor’s consent be a defense to this charge?
No. Virginia law explicitly states that consent of the child is not a defense to a charge under Va. Code § 18.2-63. The law is designed to protect children of that age from sexual acts, irrespective of their willingness.
What if I was only a few years older than the minor?
It depends. The statute applies if the accused is 18 or older and the child is 13 or 14. Virginia has a separate “Romeo and Juliet” law (Va. Code § 18.2-371) that may provide an affirmative defense if the accused is under 18, is less than three years older than the minor, and the act was consensual. This defense does not apply if the accused is 18 or older.
Is this charge eligible for expungement if I’m found not guilty?
Yes. If you are acquitted at trial or the charge is dismissed by the Commonwealth, you can petition the court to have the arrest and charge expunged from your public record. An attorney can guide you through this process after your case concludes favorably.
Why do I need a lawyer for a carnal knowledge charge?
This is a life-altering felony with mandatory prison time and lifetime sex offender registration upon conviction. A skilled lawyer is essential to challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights at every stage. The legal system is complex, and the consequences of handling it without experienced legal help are severe.
Related Legal Help: If you are facing other serious charges, our attorneys also provide defense for Virginia sex crimes, Virginia criminal defense, and Virginia felony charges.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.