Prince George County Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A charge of Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian in Prince George County is a serious felony under Virginia law, carrying severe penalties. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Sris understands how these cases are built and can challenge the evidence from the start. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Law on Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian
The crime of Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-370.1. This statute makes it unlawful for a person in a custodial or supervisory relationship with a child under 18 to propose that the child engage in sexual acts or to expose their sexual or genital parts to the child. The law is designed to protect children from abuse by those entrusted with their care, such as parents, guardians, teachers, or coaches. The definition hinges on the abuse of a position of authority or trust.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, refer to the official Virginia Code § 18.2-370.1 (Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian). Court procedures and filing information can be found on the Prince George County Circuit Court website.
Defense Strategy for a Custodian Indecent Liberties Charge in Prince George County
Defending against a charge of Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian requires immediate and careful action. In Prince George County, these cases are prosecuted aggressively. A key procedural fact is that the Commonwealth must prove the existence of a custodial or supervisory relationship beyond a reasonable doubt, which can be a point of legal challenge. An experienced child sex offense defense lawyer in Prince George County will scrutinize the evidence for inconsistencies, question the validity of interviews with the child, and examine whether the accused’s actions were intentionally lascivious.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators or child protective services without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Case Assessment: Your lawyer will obtain all discovery from the prosecution to review the evidence, including witness statements and any forensic reports.
- Investigate the Relationship: A defense often involves challenging whether a true “custodial or supervisory” relationship existed as defined by law at the time of the alleged act.
- Challenge the Evidence: Your attorney will file pre-trial motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence or statements and challenge the credibility of the allegations.
- Negotiate or Trial: Based on the strength of the evidence, your lawyer will advise on whether to negotiate for a reduced charge or proceed to a jury trial to contest the allegations.
Penalties for Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian in Virginia
In Prince George County, a conviction for Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian is a Class 5 felony, punishable by one to ten years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Sex Offender Registry | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian (Va. Code § 18.2-370.1) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory registration | Loss of custody/visitation, professional license revocation, permanent criminal record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Defending Serious Charges
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of both sides of the courtroom. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC by meticulously preparing each case and advocating forcefully for our clients’ rights.
Case Results in Sex Crime Defense
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While results are always case-specific, our team, including Mr. Sris with his decades of experience, has successfully defended clients against serious felony charges by challenging flawed evidence and protecting constitutional rights.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Prince George County Sex Crime Defense Lawyers
Our firm is positioned to defend clients throughout the region. Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian lawyer near Prince George County residents can rely on for urgent counsel.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888) 437-7747
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By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “custodian” mean under this law?
It depends. The law defines a custodian as a parent, guardian, or other person responsible for the care of a child. It can also include someone in a supervisory role, like a teacher, coach, or babysitter, who has temporary control over the child.
Is this charge different from regular indecent liberties?
Yes. Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian is a separate, more severe charge than the general indecent liberties statute (§ 18.2-370). The key difference is the existence of a custodial relationship, which the prosecution must prove and which carries heightened penalties.
What are the long-term consequences of a conviction?
Beyond prison time, a conviction requires mandatory registration on the Virginia Sex Offender Registry. This can affect where you live, work, and your community standing for many years, often for life. It also typically results in loss of professional licenses and child custody rights.
Can the charge be reduced or dismissed?
It depends on the evidence. An experienced custodian indecent liberties lawyer Prince George County can challenge the prosecution’s case by disputing the nature of the relationship, the intent behind the actions, or the credibility of the evidence. Successful pre-trial motions or negotiations can sometimes lead to reduced charges or dismissal.
Should I talk to Child Protective Services (CPS) alone?
No. You have the right to have an attorney present during any interview with CPS or law enforcement. Their goal is to investigate allegations, and anything you say can be used in both the criminal and civil dependency cases. Always consult with a lawyer first.
Related Practice Areas: Virginia Sex Crimes Lawyer | Virginia Child Abuse Defense
Serving Nearby: Chesterfield County Sex Crimes Lawyer | Colonial Heights Sex Crimes Lawyer
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding a charge of Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian in Prince George County, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.