Forcible Sodomy Lawyer Henrico County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Forcible sodomy under Va. Code § 18.2-67.1 is a felony punishable by 5 years to life in prison in Henrico County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Henrico County sex crime cases. A forcible sodomy lawyer from our firm can challenge the evidence and protect your rights. Contact us for a case review.
Virginia Forcible Sodomy Law & Penalties
Forcible sodomy is defined under Virginia law as engaging in cunnilingus, fellatio, anilingus, or anal intercourse with a complaining witness against their will, by force, threat, or intimidation, or through the mental incapacity or physical helplessness of the complaining witness. It is a Class 2 felony. The statute is part of Virginia’s broader sexual assault code, which includes related offenses like rape and object sexual penetration.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-67.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Henrico County is available at the Henrico County General District Court website.
Handling a Forcible Sodomy Charge in Henrico County
Henrico County Circuit Court handles all felony forcible sodomy trials, with preliminary hearings held in Henrico County General District Court. These cases are prosecuted aggressively by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Defense strategy must focus on the element of force or lack of consent, often involving forensic evidence and witness credibility. A conviction triggers mandatory lifetime sex offender registration under Va. Code § 9.1-901, making charge reduction a critical goal.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Contact a lawyer immediately.
- Case Review & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence to build a defense.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your case begins in Henrico County General District Court, where the prosecution must show probable cause.
- Circuit Court Proceedings: If indicted, the case moves to Henrico County Circuit Court for potential trial or plea negotiations.
- Trial or Resolution: Your attorney will fight for dismissal, acquittal at trial, or negotiate a reduction to avoid sex offender registration.
Potential Penalties for Forcible Sodomy in Virginia
In Henrico County, a forcible sodomy conviction carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years and up to life in prison, plus lifetime sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forcible Sodomy (Va. Code § 18.2-67.1) | Class 2 Felony | 5 years to life | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Lifetime sex offender registration, GPS monitoring possible, loss of professional licenses, firearm rights revoked. |
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+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a forcible sodomy charge and provide a strong, strategic defense.
Case Results in Henrico County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results in Henrico County sex crime cases. Our local experience includes achieving dismissals and favorable resolutions for our clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Henrico County Sex Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients in Henrico County, including Glen Allen, Short Pump, and Innsbrook. We are familiar with the Henrico County General District Court and Circuit Court. For a forcible sexual act defense lawyer Henrico County residents can consult, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for forcible sodomy in Henrico County, Virginia?
5 years to life in prison. Forcible sodomy under Va. Code § 18.2-67.1 is a Class 2 felony with a mandatory minimum 5-year sentence. A conviction also requires lifetime registration as a sex offender.
Do I have to register as a sex offender for a forcible sodomy conviction?
Yes. A felony forcible sodomy conviction in Virginia mandates lifetime registration under the sex offender registry (Va. Code § 9.1-901). Avoiding a conviction that triggers the registry is a primary defense goal.
What is the difference between sodomy and forcible sodomy in Virginia?
It depends on consent and force. Sodomy between consenting adults is not a crime in Virginia. Forcible sodomy involves the act against a person’s will by force, threat, or intimidation, or with someone who is physically helpless or mentally incapacitated.
Can a forcible sodomy charge be reduced?
Possibly. An experienced sodomy charge defense lawyer Henrico County can negotiate with prosecutors. A reduction to a non-registry offense like simple assault may be possible, depending on case facts and evidence.
How long does a forcible sodomy case take?
Typically 3-12 months. The case starts with a preliminary hearing in Henrico County General District Court within 21-60 days. If indicted, a Circuit Court trial can take 3-12 months. Forensic evidence can extend timelines.
Related Pages: For more information, see our Virginia Sex Crime Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist with Henrico County criminal defense and Henrico County DUI defense.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
The same rules apply outside Henrico County, and our page on forcible sodomy charges across Virginia walks through each stage.