Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian lawyer Virginia Beach, VA

If you are facing an accusation under Virginia’s taking indecent liberties with a child by custodian statute, you understand how rapidly your life can be upended. A conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-370 carries severe consequences—including felony penalties and mandatory sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates on criminal defense in Virginia Beach and throughout the Commonwealth, and Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have handled matters involving this charge since the firm’s founding in 1997. We appear at the Virginia Beach General District Court and the Virginia Beach Circuit Court, located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Building 10B, and we work to build a thorough defense for our clients. To discuss your situation and learn how we can assist, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Last reviewed: July 2026

What Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian Means in Virginia Beach

Virginia Code § 18.2-370 makes it a felony for a person 18 or older who maintains a custodial or supervisory relationship over a child under the age of 15 to knowingly and intentionally commit an act of a sexual nature with that child. “Custodian” encompasses parents, step-parents, guardians, teachers, coaches, child-care providers, and others entrusted with the care of a minor. The offense is classified as a Class 6 felony, punishable by one to five years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500. In Virginia Beach, these charges are often filed after an investigation by the Virginia Beach Police Department or the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office, and they sometimes involve forensic interviews of alleged victims conducted at accredited child advocacy centers.

Beyond incarceration, a conviction triggers the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry under Va. Code § 9.1-901. Registration is generally a lifetime obligation and imposes severe collateral consequences: restricted residency and employment options, community notification, and the loss of certain civil rights. Because of these long-term ramifications, building a defense that addresses both the criminal charge and its registry-triggering potential is critical. Our Richmond location serves clients from Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, Oceana, and surrounding communities, and we are familiar with how these cases are prosecuted in the city’s courts.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Taking Indecent Liberties Cases in Virginia Beach

A taking indecent liberties by custodian charge typically begins with a complaint, an investigation, and an arrest. The preliminary hearing is held in the Virginia Beach General District Court, where a judge evaluates whether probable cause exists to send the case to the grand jury. If the grand jury returns an indictment, the case proceeds to the Virginia Beach Circuit Court for trial. Throughout this process, our team examines the evidence, the credibility of the accuser, and the reliability of any forensic interviews or digital evidence. We also scrutinize whether the accused actually meets the statutory definition of a custodian and whether the alleged conduct rises to the level required by the statute.

Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, brings firsthand knowledge of how the Commonwealth builds its case, which informs our approach from the outset. His Of Counsel team includes attorneys with experience in challenging forensic and scientific evidence, including DNA analysis and electronic communications. We work to identify procedural flaws, negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney when appropriate, and, when necessary, prepare for trial. Our goal is to achieve a favorable outcome—whether through a dismissal, a reduction to a non-registry offense, or an acquittal at trial. Results may vary. in any specific matter.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His experience as a former prosecutor shapes his perspective on criminal defense strategy, and he remains actively involved in client matters throughout the firm.

Supporting Mr. Sris are Of Counsel attorneys dedicated to the firm’s criminal defense practice. They contribute experience in trial advocacy, evidence challenges, and navigating the procedural demands of Virginia Beach courts. Together, they bring a collaborative, multi-faceted approach to each case. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I am facing taking indecent liberties with a child by custodian charges in Virginia Beach?

Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not discuss the case with law enforcement, social services, or anyone other than your lawyer. Preserve any communications, documents, or electronic evidence that may be relevant. A prompt consultation allows us to begin investigating the allegations and to advise you on how to protect your rights while the case is pending. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

How does a Virginia lawyer defend against taking indecent liberties by custodian charges?

Defense strategies often involve challenging the sufficiency of the evidence, the credibility of the accuser, and the legal elements of the charge. We may dispute whether a custodial relationship existed, whether the alleged conduct was knowing and intentional, and whether it meets the statutory definition. We also examine the investigation for procedural errors, scrutinize forensic interview techniques, and present mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-370 to craft the strong $1.

Will I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?

Yes—a conviction for taking indecent liberties with a child by custodian generally requires lifetime registration with the Virginia State Police. Under Va. Code § 9.1-901, the offense is classified as a “sexually violent offense,” triggering the most restrictive tier of registration. Failure to register is a separate felony. Avoiding a conviction that mandates registration—through charge reduction, deferred disposition, or acquittal—is a primary objective of our defense strategy.

Are there alternatives to incarceration for this offense?

The court may consider probation, suspended sentences, and treatment programs in certain circumstances, depending on the facts and the defendant’s history. Because the offense is a felony, any alternative to active prison time is determined at the discretion of the circuit court judge after considering the sentencing guidelines, the presentence report, and arguments from both sides. We work to present a comprehensive picture of our client’s background to advocate for the least restrictive disposition possible. Results may vary.

How long does a taking indecent liberties case take in Virginia Beach?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the evidence and the court’s schedule, but cases often take several months to over a year. A preliminary hearing typically occurs within a few months of arrest. If the case is certified to the grand jury and an indictment is returned, the circuit court sets a trial date that may be months later. Forensic evidence analysis, such as DNA or digital forensics, can extend the timeline. We keep clients informed about all scheduling developments. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Can the charges be reduced to a non-sex-offense?

In some cases, negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney can lead to a reduction to a lesser offense that does not require sex offender registration. For example, a charge might be amended to a simple assault or another non-registerable offense if the evidence supports such a resolution. Whether this is possible depends on the strength of the prosecution’s case, the defendant’s background, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. We explore every avenue to minimize the collateral consequences of a conviction.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Practices in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Our Richmond location serves Virginia Beach and surrounding communities. Reach our firm at (888) 437-7747.