Use Of Communications Systems To Facilitate Offenses Against Minors Defense in Roanoke County, Virginia
The use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-374.3, carrying 1-5 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration. In Roanoke County, these cases are prosecuted aggressively at the Roanoke County General District Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides immediate legal help for these charges. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 for a legal consultation.
Virginia Law on Use of Communications Systems to Facilitate Offenses Against Minors
Virginia Code § 18.2-374.3 makes it a Class 6 felony to use any communications system, including the internet, phone, or text message, to facilitate certain offenses against a minor. This includes soliciting, enticing, or arranging to commit crimes like abduction, prostitution, carnal knowledge, or taking indecent liberties. The statute is broad and can apply even if no physical meeting occurs. A conviction mandates lifetime registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry under Va. Code § 9.1-901.
Last verified: April 2026 | Roanoke County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-374.3 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms are available through the Virginia Court System website.
Roanoke County Court Process for These Charges
In Roanoke County, charges for use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors begin with an arrest or summons. The case starts in the Roanoke County General District Court for a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause. Given the nature of the charge, bond is often contested and may include conditions like no internet access. The Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office typically pursues these cases vigorously. If bound over, the felony trial occurs in the Roanoke County Circuit Court. Defense strategy must address digital evidence, such as chat logs or IP addresses, which the prosecution will use.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or learning of charges.
- Attend the arraignment and bond hearing at Roanoke County General District Court.
- Your attorney will file pre-trial motions, potentially to suppress evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the charge.
- The preliminary hearing will be held to determine if there is enough evidence for a felony trial.
- If bound over, the case proceeds to Roanoke County Circuit Court for potential plea negotiations or trial.
- A trial by judge or jury will determine guilt or innocence if no plea agreement is reached.
Potential Penalties and Consequences
In Roanoke County, a conviction for use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors is a Class 6 felony carrying 1-5 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use of Communications Systems to Facilitate Offenses Against Minors (Va. Code § 18.2-374.3) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Mandatory lifetime sex offender registration; possible GPS monitoring; loss of professional licenses; restrictions on living and working near schools. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Your Type of Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand the severe, life-altering consequences of a conviction for use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors, especially the mandatory sex offender registry. Our approach involves a meticulous review of all digital evidence and communications to protect your rights and build a strong defense strategy for your day in Roanoke County court.
Case Results in Roanoke County
While specific results are confidential, our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In Roanoke County, we have a documented history of achieving positive results for clients facing serious charges. Every case is unique, and we dedicate our extensive resources and experience to seeking the best possible outcome in your situation. For instance, our team, including attorney Matthew Greene who has over 30 years of experience and formerly held a contract with Child Protective Services, works to challenge evidence and negotiate effectively.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Roanoke County Defense Team
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Roanoke County courts. We are your local use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors lawyer near Roanoke County, accessible via I-81 and Route 11. We serve the communities of Salem, Vinton, Cave Spring, Hollins, and Catawba.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location
505 N Main St, Suite 103
Woodstock, VA 22664
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors” mean in Virginia?
It is using a phone, computer, or the internet to set up, solicit, or arrange to commit a crime against someone under 18. This can include planning to meet for illegal sexual activity, even if the meeting never happens. The charge is a Class 6 felony.
What is the penalty for this charge in Roanoke County?
A conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-374.3 is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500. The most severe consequence is mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender, which affects housing, employment, and public reputation.
Do I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?
Yes. A felony conviction for use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors requires lifetime registration on the Virginia Sex Offender Registry under Va. Code § 9.1-901. Avoiding a conviction that triggers the registry is often the primary goal of defense strategy.
What should I do if I am under investigation or charged?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a defense lawyer immediately. An attorney can advise you on your rights, interact with investigators, and begin building a defense, often focusing on the intent behind the communications and the validity of the evidence.
Can the charge be reduced or dismissed?
It depends on the evidence. An attorney can file motions to challenge how evidence was obtained or whether the communications meet the legal standard. Negotiations with the Roanoke County Commonwealth’s Attorney may lead to a reduction to a non-registry offense, depending on case specifics.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
Roanoke is one part of a statewide practice, and our page on use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors lawyer Virginia covers the process from start to finish.