Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree Defense in Albemarle County, VA
A charge of course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree under Va. Code § 18.2-67.2 is a severe felony in Albemarle County, carrying a potential life sentence and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Law on Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child
The crime of course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-67.2. This statute makes it illegal for someone 18 years or older to engage in two or more acts of sexual conduct with a child under the age of 13 over a period of at least three months. Unlike a single incident, this charge alleges a pattern of abuse, which prosecutors in Albemarle County pursue aggressively. The law is designed to address prolonged exploitation, and a conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Albemarle County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-67.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filings for Albemarle County cases are handled through the Albemarle County General District Court website.
Defense Strategy in Albemarle County
Defending against a course of sexual conduct charge requires a detailed, case-specific approach. In Albemarle County, these cases often involve complex timelines, witness credibility challenges, and forensic evidence. The Commonwealth’s Attorney builds a case on the alleged pattern, making it critical to scrutinize each alleged act and the evidence supporting it. A strong defense may involve challenging the consistency of statements, the lack of physical corroboration, or improper investigative techniques.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: Immediately after an arrest or summons, contact a defense lawyer. We review the warrant, any statements, and the specific allegations to understand the prosecution’s theory.
- Secure Representation at the Preliminary Hearing: The case begins in Albemarle County General District Court for a preliminary hearing. Your lawyer will argue for bond and challenge whether there is probable cause to send the felony charge to Circuit Court.
- full Discovery Review: In Circuit Court, we obtain and analyze all evidence—police reports, forensic interviews, medical records, and digital evidence—to build the defense.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: Based on the evidence, we formulate a strategy, which may involve filing motions to suppress evidence, challenging the admissibility of statements, or preparing for trial.
- Negotiation or Trial: We engage in negotiations with the prosecutor, aiming for a reduction or dismissal of charges to avoid the severe penalties and lifetime registry. If a fair plea cannot be reached, we prepare to present a vigorous defense at trial.
Potential Penalties and Consequences
In Albemarle County, a conviction for course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree is a Class 3 felony with a mandatory minimum of 5 years and a maximum of life in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child 2nd Degree (Va. Code § 18.2-67.2) | Class 3 Felony | 5 years to life* | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Mandatory lifetime sex offender registration under Va. Code § 9.1-901; possible GPS monitoring; severe impact on employment, housing, and family rights. |
*Mandatory minimum 5-year sentence applies.
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 has a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex criminal matters. We understand the high stakes of a course of sexual conduct charge and the specific procedures of Albemarle County courts. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your future.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has 30 total documented case results across all practice areas in the region with a 100% favorable outcome rate. While every case is unique, our team, including secondary attorney Matthew Greene—a lawyer with over 30 years of experience and a former 14-year CPS contract holder in Alexandria—works to achieve the best possible result. We challenge the prosecution’s evidence at every stage, from the preliminary hearing in Albemarle County General District Court to trial in Circuit Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Albemarle County Sex Crime Defense Team
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Albemarle County courts. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 29. Our defense lawyer team is available for those in Charlottesville, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (888) 437-7747
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a sex crime in Albemarle County, Virginia?
Penalties vary by charge. For course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree, it is a Class 3 felony with 5 years to life in prison, a fine up to $100,000, and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration. Other sex crimes have different ranges.
Do I have to register as a sex offender in Albemarle County, Virginia?
Yes. A conviction for course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree requires lifetime registration under Va. Code § 9.1-901, reporting your address, employment, and vehicle to law enforcement. Failure to register is a separate felony.
How long does a sex crime case take in Albemarle County, Virginia?
It depends. These complex cases typically take 3-12 months from arrest to trial. A preliminary hearing occurs in General District Court within 21-60 days. The Circuit Court trial may be scheduled 3-12 months later, with delays possible for forensic evidence analysis.
What should I do if charged with a sex crime in Albemarle County?
Contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer. Sex crime charges carry severe penalties including mandatory registration. Our firm has former prosecutors with defense experience. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between first and second-degree course of sexual conduct?
It depends on the age of the child and the acts alleged. First degree (Va. Code § 18.2-67.2) involves a child under 13 and acts of sexual intercourse or sodomy. Second degree involves a child under 13 and other acts of sexual conduct. Both are serious felonies.
Can these charges be reduced or dismissed?
It depends on the evidence. A skilled criminal court lawyer can negotiate with the prosecutor or challenge the evidence in court. Strategies may include showing inconsistencies in testimony, lack of physical evidence, or procedural errors by law enforcement.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles criminal defense in Albemarle County, DUI defense, and family law matters. For more information on sex crime defense across Virginia, visit our Virginia sex crime defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.