Augusta County 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 under Va. Code § 18.2-67.2 is a serious felony in Augusta County, carrying a potential sentence of 5 years to life in prison and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding the Statute: 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 under Va. Code § 18.2-67.2. This statute makes it illegal for an adult 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. The law defines “sexual conduct” broadly to include sexual intercourse, sodomy, fondling, or other acts intended to sexually arouse or gratify either person. This charge is distinct from a single incident; it alleges a pattern of abuse over time, which prosecutors in Augusta County often pursue aggressively due to the vulnerable age of the alleged victim.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-67.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for Augusta County are managed by the Augusta County General District Court.
Local Defense Strategy for Augusta County
Defending against a charge of course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree in Augusta County requires immediate and specific action. The Augusta County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office treats these cases with high priority. A key local procedural fact is that these felony charges begin with a preliminary hearing in Augusta County General District Court to determine probable cause before moving to Circuit Court for trial. Given the severe penalties and the complexity of evidence often involving timelines and witness testimony, securing a defense lawyer with experience in these specific charges is critical.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without a criminal attorney present. Contact a lawyer who handles course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree cases.
- Case Assessment & Investigation: Your defense lawyer will review all discovery, including police reports, forensic interviews, and any digital evidence, to identify inconsistencies or procedural errors.
- Preliminary Hearing Strategy: At the General District Court hearing, your attorney will challenge the sufficiency of the Commonwealth’s evidence to establish probable cause for the alleged pattern of conduct.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. Engage in negotiations with the prosecutor, potentially seeking a reduction to a non-registry offense to avoid lifetime sex offender requirements.
- Trial Preparation: If the case proceeds to trial in Augusta County Circuit Court, build a defense that may include alibi evidence, character witnesses, or experienced testimony to refute the alleged pattern of abuse.
- Sentencing Mitigation: If convicted, present mitigating factors to argue for a sentence at the lower end of the range and against the maximum penalties.
Potential Penalties for Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree in Augusta County
In Augusta County, a conviction for course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree under Va. Code § 18.2-67.2 is a Class 3 felony with severe, long-term consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child in the Second Degree (Va. Code § 18.2-67.2) | Class 3 Felony | 5 years to life in prison | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender under Va. Code § 9.1-901; possible GPS monitoring; loss of professional licenses; severe restrictions on housing and employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Augusta County 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 documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree charge and provide a determined, case-specific defense. Our approach is “Advocacy Without Borders,” meaning we use every available resource to protect your rights in Augusta County.
Case Results in Augusta County
Our firm has a documented record of handling sensitive and complex cases. In Augusta County and across our service areas, we have achieved favorable outcomes for clients facing serious allegations. For instance, attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience and a former 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, brings critical insight into defending against charges involving minors. Mr. Sris provides strategic oversight on all major sex crime defenses. Every case is unique, and we focus on the specific facts and evidence to build the strongest possible defense for you.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Augusta County Defense Services
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients facing charges at the Augusta County courts. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64 for clients in Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville. If you need a course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree lawyer near Augusta County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations to begin your defense immediately. Meetings are by appointment only to ensure we dedicate our full attention to your case.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a course of sexual conduct against a child charge in Augusta County, Virginia?
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 under Va. Code § 9.1-901. The case is heard in Augusta County Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing in General District Court.
Do I have to register as a sex offender if convicted of this charge in Virginia?
Yes. A conviction for course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree under Va. Code § 18.2-67.2 requires lifetime registration as a sex offender in Virginia. This makes negotiating a charge reduction to a non-registry offense a primary goal for any criminal charges defense.
How is “course of conduct” proven in these cases?
It depends. The prosecutor must prove two or more acts of sexual conduct occurred over a period of at least three months. A defense lawyer will challenge the evidence for each alleged act, the timeline, and the credibility of the testimony to break the alleged pattern.
What should I do if I am under investigation for this crime?
Immediately hire a criminal court lawyer and invoke your right to remain silent. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. An investigation can quickly lead to arrest, so early legal intervention is crucial for building a defense.
Can these charges be reduced or dismissed?
It is possible. Through pre-trial motions challenging evidence or negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, charges may be reduced to a lesser offense, potentially avoiding the lifetime sex offender registry. The outcome depends on the specific facts and strength of the defense.
Related Pages: For more information, see our Virginia Sex Crime Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist with general criminal defense in Augusta County and DUI defense.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding a course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree charge.
Augusta is one part of a statewide practice, and our page on course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree lawyer Virginia covers the process from start to finish.