Promoting A Sexual Performance By A Child Lawyer in Bedford County, VA

Promoting a sexual performance by a child is a serious felony under Virginia law, specifically Va. Code § 18.2-374.1:1, carrying severe penalties including mandatory prison time and lifetime sex offender registration. If you are facing these charges in Bedford County, you need a defense lawyer with specific experience in these complex cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly

Virginia Law on Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child

The crime of promoting a sexual performance by a child is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-374.1:1. This statute makes it illegal to produce, finance, manage, supervise, direct, or sell any material that includes a sexual performance by a child under 18. A “sexual performance” means any performance that includes sexual conduct, whether actual or simulated. The law is aggressively enforced, and a conviction is a Class 5 felony, punishable by one to ten years in prison. However, if the child is under 15, the offense becomes a Class 4 felony with a potential sentence of two years to life. All convictions require lifetime registration as a sex offender under Va. Code § 9.1-901.

You can read the official statute on the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 18.2-374.1:1). For Bedford County court procedures, visit the Bedford County General District Court website.

Defense Strategy in Bedford County Courts

These cases often involve complex digital evidence and require a defense that challenges the prosecution’s chain of custody and the intent behind the alleged act. In Bedford County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office pursues these charges vigorously. A key procedural fact is that these cases typically originate with a search warrant for digital devices, and the forensic analysis can take months. An effective defense often involves filing motions to suppress evidence obtained from an unlawful search or challenging the authenticity of the digital evidence presented.

1. Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact our firm immediately after an arrest or investigation. We review all known details, including any search warrants served.
2. Evidence Analysis: Our team, often with Mr. Sris’s oversight on complex cases, examines the prosecution’s digital evidence and identifies potential constitutional violations.
3. Pre-Trial Motions: We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or to challenge the charges based on lack of probable cause.
4. Negotiation & Strategy: We engage in negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, aiming for a reduction or dismissal of charges to avoid mandatory registry requirements.
5. Trial Preparation: If a plea agreement is not in your best interest, we prepare a full trial defense, including experienced witnesses to counter the state’s forensic case.
6. Post-Conviction Relief: If convicted, we explore all avenues for appeal and manage the complex requirements of sex offender registration.

Potential Penalties for Conviction

In Bedford County, promoting a sexual performance by a child is a felony with penalties ranging from one year to life in prison, plus lifetime sex offender registration.

Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.

Our Experience in Sex Crime 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 track record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a 93% favorable outcome rate. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we build defenses that challenge the prosecution’s case at every stage, from the initial search warrant to the final verdict.

Case Results for Sex Crimes in Bedford County

Our firm has documented results in Bedford County sex crime cases. While every case is unique, our approach focuses on achieving the best possible outcome, whether through charge reduction, dismissal, or acquittal. We understand that a conviction for promoting a sexual performance by a child carries lifelong consequences, and we fight to protect your future.

Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.

FAQs: Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child Charges

For more information on related defenses, see our page on criminal defense in Bedford County. To understand how we handle similar cases statewide, visit our Virginia sex crime defense hub. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Shenandoah County.

Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.