Taking Indecent Liberties With A Child By Custodian in Richmond County, VA — What Are Your Legal Options?
Taking Indecent Liberties With A Child By Custodian is a serious felony under Virginia law, carrying 1 to 5 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration. In Richmond County, these cases are prosecuted aggressively in the 15th Judicial District. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced legal help for these charges.
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 illegal for a custodian or person in a position of authority to propose or take any indecent liberty with a child under the age of 18. The law is broad and can cover actions that do not involve physical contact, such as lewd proposals or communications. A conviction is a Class 6 felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Richmond County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-370.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). For local court information, visit the 15th Judicial Circuit Court website.
Defending a Charge in Richmond County
Richmond County General District Court at 101 Court Circle, Warsaw, VA 22572 handles initial hearings for these charges. The county is a designated legal desert with fewer than 1 attorney per 1,000 residents, making experienced legal help critical. The prosecution must prove you were a custodian or person with authority and that you took or proposed an indecent liberty. Defenses often challenge the intent, the nature of the communication or act, or the validity of the evidence.
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Contact a lawyer immediately to begin building your defense.
- Understand the Charges: Your attorney will review the warrant or indictment to understand the specific allegations of indecent liberties and your alleged role as a custodian.
- Investigate the Evidence: A thorough review of all evidence, including electronic communications, witness statements, and the context of the alleged act, is conducted.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will formulate a defense, which may involve challenging intent, consent (if applicable), or the prosecution’s interpretation of the statute.
- handle Court Proceedings: Your attorney will represent you at all hearings, from the preliminary hearing in General District Court to any potential trial in Circuit Court.
- Address Long-Term Consequences: A strong defense strategy must also plan for mitigating the lifelong consequences of a conviction, including sex offender registration.
Potential Penalties for a Conviction
In Richmond County, a conviction for Taking Indecent Liberties With A Child By Custodian carries a prison sentence of 1 to 5 years, though judges have discretion within that range.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taking Indecent Liberties With A Child By Custodian (Va. Code § 18.2-370.1) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years in prison | Up to $2,500 | None directly, but may affect professional licenses | Mandatory registration on the Virginia Sex Offender Registry; potential GPS monitoring; loss of custody/visitation rights; severe social stigma. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand that a charge of Taking Indecent Liberties With A Child By Custodian can upend your life. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your future. We serve clients across Virginia, including those in rural areas like Richmond County where access to specialized legal help is limited.
Our Record in Sex Crimes Defense
Our firm has a documented record of handling complex sex crimes cases. While specific results are unique to each case, our team, led by Matthew Greene with support from firm founder Mr. Sris, works diligently to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and protect our clients’ rights at every stage. We have successfully defended clients against serious felony charges by meticulously examining the facts and the law.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Legal Help for Richmond County Residents
Our Shenandoah Valley location is strategically positioned to serve Richmond County and the Northern Neck. We provide 24/7 phone consultations and meet with clients by appointment only.
Taking Indecent Liberties With A Child By Custodian lawyer near Richmond County, VA. We serve Warsaw, Montross, Tappahannock, and surrounding Northern Neck communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah Valley Location — 505 N Main St, Ste 103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “custodian” mean under this law?
It depends. Virginia law defines a custodian broadly as a parent, guardian, or any person responsible for the care of a child. This can include teachers, coaches, babysitters, or family members who have temporary supervision. The key is whether the person had authority or responsibility over the child at the time.
Can I go to jail for just sending a message?
Yes. The statute prohibits proposing an indecent liberty. A lewd or sexually explicit proposal made to a child by a custodian, even through text or social media, can form the basis for this felony charge without any physical contact occurring.
Is this charge the same as rape or sexual assault?
No. Taking Indecent Liberties With A Child By Custodian is a separate crime that does not require proof of force or penetration. It focuses on the abuse of a position of trust or authority to propose or commit an indecent act, which may or may not involve physical contact.
What should I do if I am investigated for this?
Immediately seek a legal consultation with an attorney. Do not answer questions from police or investigators without a lawyer present. An attorney can advise you on your rights and intervene to protect you during the investigation before formal charges are filed.
What are the long-term consequences of a conviction?
A conviction requires lifetime registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry. This affects where you can live, work, and travel. It also carries significant social stigma and can impact family relationships, employment, and housing indefinitely.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding Taking Indecent Liberties With A Child By Custodian charges.