Indecent Liberties with a Child Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia
An indecent liberties with a child charge in Manassas is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-370, carrying 1-5 years in prison and lifetime sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these serious allegations.
Virginia Law on Indecent Liberties with a Child
Virginia law defines the crime of indecent liberties with a child under Va. Code § 18.2-370. This statute makes it illegal for a person 18 or older to propose, suggest, or take any indecent liberty with a child under 15 for the purpose of sexually arousing or gratifying any person. The law is broad and can cover various actions, not just physical contact, including lewd proposals or communications.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has extensive experience with Virginia’s complex sex crime statutes. We analyze the specific allegations and evidence in each case to build a strong defense strategy.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-370 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court proceedings for these felonies begin at the Manassas General District Court for preliminary hearings before moving to Circuit Court for trial.
Defense Strategy in Manassas Courts
In Manassas, indecent liberties cases are prosecuted aggressively by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. A key local procedural fact is that avoiding a conviction that triggers mandatory lifetime sex offender registration under Va. Code § 9.1-901 is often the primary defense objective, even more than incarceration. The prosecution frequently relies on witness statements and digital evidence, which require careful examination.
- Case Assessment: Immediately after arrest or charge, we review all police reports, witness statements, and any digital evidence.
- Preliminary Hearing: We represent you at the initial hearing in Manassas General District Court to challenge probable cause.
- Investigation: Our team conducts an independent investigation, which may include reviewing communications and interviewing witnesses.
- Strategy Development: We develop a defense strategy, which could involve negotiating for a reduction to a non-registry offense or preparing for trial.
- Trial or Resolution: We aggressively defend you at trial in Manassas Circuit Court or work to secure the best possible plea agreement.
Penalties for Indecent Liberties with a Child in Manassas
In Manassas, a conviction for indecent liberties with a child under Va. Code § 18.2-370 is a Class 6 felony with severe, long-term consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indecent Liberties with a Child (Va. Code § 18.2-370) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail if sentenced as a misdemeanor) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | 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.
Our Experience with Sex Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a firm-wide favorable outcome rate of over 93%. Our lead attorney for Virginia sex crimes, Matthew Greene, brings over 30 years of experience, including a former 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, giving him unique insight into how these cases are investigated.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results in sensitive cases. While every case is unique, our approach is consistent: meticulous preparation and aggressive advocacy. For instance, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) in child pornography distribution cases in Maryland and favorable outcomes in other complex sex offense matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Firm-wide, we have 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We actively practice in Manassas courts and understand the local legal field.
Indecent Liberties with a Child Lawyer Near Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients facing charges at the Manassas courts. We are accessible via I-66, Route 28, and Route 234. We provide legal representation to individuals in Manassas and surrounding communities.
If you need an indecent liberties charge lawyer Manassas, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. Contact us to schedule an appointment at our office.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Fairfax Location — 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a sex crime in Manassas, Virginia?
Penalties vary by charge. Indecent liberties with a child is a Class 6 felony with 1-5 years in prison and lifetime sex offender registration. Rape carries 5 years to life. Most convictions require registration.
Do I have to register as a sex offender in Manassas, Virginia?
Yes, most felony sex crime convictions in Virginia, including indecent liberties, require lifetime registration under Va. Code § 9.1-901. A core defense goal is often to avoid a conviction that triggers this requirement.
How long does a sex crime case take in Manassas, Virginia?
It typically takes 3-12 months from arrest to trial. The process starts with a preliminary hearing in Manassas General District Court within 21-60 days. Complex evidence like digital forensics can extend the timeline.
What does “indecent liberty” mean under Virginia law?
It is broadly defined under Va. Code § 18.2-370. It involves a person 18+ proposing, suggesting, or taking any indecent liberty with a child under 15 for sexual arousal or gratification. This can include non-contact actions like lewd proposals.
Why is an indecent liberties with a child lawyer Manassas important early in the case?
Early intervention allows your attorney to investigate immediately, protect your rights during questioning, and potentially negotiate with prosecutors before formal charges are solidified, which can significantly impact the case outcome.
Related Practice Areas: Manassas Criminal Defense Lawyer | Manassas DUI Lawyer
Nearby Locations: Fairfax Sex Crime Lawyer | Prince William County Sex Crime Lawyer
State Overview: Virginia Sex Crime Defense Lawyer
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
If you want to see how a Manassas case fits into the wider process, our page on indecent liberties with a child lawyer Virginia covers it from start to finish.