Virginia Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A charge of course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree under Va. Code § 18.2-67.2 is a Class 3 felony carrying 5 years to life in prison and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a full defense against these severe allegations.
Statutory Definition of Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child in the Second Degree
In Virginia, the crime of “course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree” is defined by statute. This law targets repeated sexual abuse of a child victim over a period of time, rather than a single, isolated act. The specific elements are outlined in Va. Code § 18.2-67.2.
The statute requires the prosecution to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that an adult (age 18 or older) engaged in two or more acts of sexual conduct with a child under the age of 13 over a period of not less than three months. “Sexual conduct” is broadly defined and includes, but is not limited to, sexual intercourse, sodomy, and object sexual penetration. The law is designed to address patterns of predatory behavior.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-67.2. For information on court procedures and the judicial process, you can visit the Virginia Judicial System website.
Defense Strategy and Local Court Process
Defending against a charge of course of sexual conduct requires a case-specific approach that challenges the prosecution’s evidence at every stage. A Virginia Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree Lawyer must scrutinize the timeline of alleged events, the credibility of witnesses, and the methods used by investigators. In many jurisdictions, prosecutors pursue these charges aggressively, making early and strategic intervention by a defense lawyer critical.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: Immediately after an arrest or investigation, a criminal attorney will review all known facts, police reports, and any search warrants to identify initial defense angles.
- Bond Hearing: In Circuit Court, your lawyer will argue for reasonable bond conditions, as these charges often involve high or denied bond requests from the Commonwealth.
- Pre-Trial Investigation & Motions: Your defense team will conduct a thorough investigation, which may include hiring forensic experts, interviewing witnesses, and filing motions to suppress evidence obtained improperly.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial Preparation: Based on the strength of the evidence, your lawyer will engage in negotiations with the prosecutor for a potential reduction or prepare a vigorous defense for trial.
- Trial or Resolution: The case will proceed to a jury trial in Circuit Court or be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement that minimizes the long-term consequences.
- Sentencing & Post-Trial: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible and advise on the requirements of the sex offender registry.
Potential Penalties and Consequences
In Virginia, a conviction for course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree is a Class 3 felony with a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison and a potential maximum of life imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child in the Second Degree (Va. Code § 18.2-67.2) | Class 3 Felony | 5 years to life imprisonment (mandatory min. 5 years) | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Mandatory lifetime registration on the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry; potential for GPS monitoring; severe restrictions on housing, employment, and internet use. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a charge of this magnitude threatens your freedom, reputation, and future. Our approach is direct and focused on the details of your specific situation.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable results in serious felony cases across Virginia. While every case is unique, our team has successfully negotiated reductions of charges, secured favorable plea agreements, and won cases at trial. For instance, attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience and a former 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, provides invaluable insight into the tactics used by the prosecution in cases involving minors. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact a Virginia Course Of Sexual Conduct Against A Child In The Second Degree Lawyer
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients across Virginia. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings scheduled by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between first and second-degree course of sexual conduct?
Yes, there is a key difference. First-degree (Va. Code § 18.2-67.2) involves a victim under age 13 and carries a mandatory life sentence. Second-degree involves a victim aged 13-14 and carries a 5-year to life sentence. The specific acts and timeframe required are similar, but the victim’s age changes the severity.
Can these charges be filed based on the testimony of one child?
Yes. Virginia law does not require corroborating physical evidence (like DNA or video) to file charges for course of sexual conduct. A prosecutor can proceed based solely on the alleged victim’s testimony and statements. This makes the defense’s challenge to the credibility and consistency of that testimony a central part of the case.
What does a “course of conduct” mean legally?
It means two or more separate acts of sexual conduct occurring over a period of at least three months. The prosecution must prove a pattern of behavior, not just one isolated incident. They will often use timelines, calendars, and specific details from interviews to try to establish this pattern.
Is lifetime sex offender registration mandatory?
Yes. A conviction for course of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree under Va. Code § 18.2-67.2 carries a mandatory requirement to register as a sex offender for life in Virginia. There is no opportunity for removal from the registry for this offense.
Why do I need a criminal court lawyer immediately?
Early intervention is critical. A defense lawyer can protect your rights during police questioning, secure your release on bond, and begin investigating the allegations before memories fade or evidence is lost. The strategies built in the first days and weeks often determine the final outcome of the case.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.