Internet Sex Crime Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
An internet sex crime charge in New Kent County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-374.3, carrying severe penalties. As an Internet Sex Crime Lawyer New Kent County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against charges like online solicitation of a minor. Our firm has documented results in Virginia courts. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Internet Sex Crime Laws
Internet sex crimes in Virginia are prosecuted aggressively under statutes like Va. Code § 18.2-374.3, which prohibits using a communications system to solicit a minor. These are Class 5 felonies, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine at the jury’s discretion. Conviction also requires registration as a sex offender. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes these cases, which are heard in New Kent County Circuit Court for felony trials. A skilled online sex offense defense lawyer New Kent County is essential to challenge the evidence, which often involves complex digital forensics from law enforcement investigations.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-374.3 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court information and procedures can be found at the New Kent County Courts website.
Defending an Internet Sex Crime Case in New Kent County
Defending against an internet sex crime charge requires immediate action. In New Kent County, these cases begin with an investigation, often by a state or federal task force, before an arrest or indictment is sought. The key local procedural fact is that while initial hearings may occur in General District Court, felony trials for internet sex crimes are held in New Kent County Circuit Court. The evidence typically involves chat logs, IP addresses, and digital device searches, which an experienced internet solicitation defense lawyer New Kent County can scrutinize for constitutional violations or lack of proof.
- Secure legal representation immediately upon learning of an investigation or charge.
- Do not speak to law enforcement or investigators without your attorney present.
- Your lawyer will file motions to challenge the search, seizure, and authenticity of digital evidence.
- Explore all defense strategies, which may include challenging the identity of the user or the intent of the communications.
- If the case proceeds to trial in Circuit Court, prepare a vigorous defense before a jury.
Potential Penalties for Internet Sex Crimes
In New Kent County, an internet sex crime like solicitation of a minor is a Class 5 felony, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solicitation of a Minor (Va. Code § 18.2-374.3) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Mandatory Sex Offender Registration |
| Possession of Child Pornography | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Mandatory Sex Offender Registration |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Sex Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and attorneys with deep experience in complex criminal defense. We understand the high stakes of internet sex crime cases and the severe, life-altering consequences of a conviction. Our approach involves a meticulous review of all digital evidence and procedural steps taken by law enforcement to protect your rights and build the strongest possible defense strategy for your case in New Kent County.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Case Results
Our firm has a record of advocating for clients in serious matters. For instance, we have successfully argued for bond in cases involving charges of solicitation of a minor on the internet in Virginia courts. In one documented result, a bond motion was granted with specific conditions in Fairfax General District Court. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring a multi-faceted defense approach.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Internet Sex Crime Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We provide legal representation to residents of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an internet sex crime in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia law defines several internet sex crimes, primarily under Va. Code § 18.2-374.3. This includes using any communications system (like email, social media, or chat rooms) to solicit, lure, or entice a person you believe to be a minor under 15 for any illegal sexual activity. Possession or distribution of child pornography is also a severe felony.
What are the penalties for an internet sex crime conviction?
Solicitation of a minor is a Class 5 felony, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500. A conviction also mandates registration as a sex offender in Virginia, which carries long-term public notification, residency restrictions, and other severe collateral consequences.
Can the police use fake profiles to investigate these crimes?
Yes. Law enforcement officers in Virginia, including task forces, are legally permitted to create undercover online profiles to investigate suspected internet sex crimes. However, an attorney can challenge whether their methods constituted entrapment or violated other legal standards during the investigation.
Do I need a lawyer for an internet sex crime charge?
Absolutely. The penalties are severe and include prison time and lifelong sex offender registration. The evidence is complex and digital. An experienced internet sex crime lawyer New Kent County can challenge the legality of the investigation, the authenticity of the evidence, and fight for your rights at every stage, from bond hearing to trial.
What should I do if I am under investigation?
First, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Second, contact a lawyer immediately. An early intervention by a skilled online sex offense defense lawyer New Kent County can be critical. Your lawyer can advise you on your rights and may be able to communicate with investigators before formal charges are filed.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.