Use of Communications Systems to Facilitate Offenses Against Minors Defense in Chesterfield County, VA
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 per offense. In Chesterfield County, these cases are prosecuted aggressively by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these charges, with documented results in Chesterfield County courts. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
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 knowingly and intentionally facilitate, solicit, or arrange a meeting with a minor for the purpose of committing certain sex offenses. This statute is a key tool for prosecutors in Chesterfield County targeting online child exploitation. The law covers a wide range of communications and is often charged alongside other offenses like indecent liberties or attempted rape. A conviction requires lifetime sex offender registration under § 9.1-901.
Chesterfield County Court Process & Defense Strategy
All felony charges for the use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors begin with a preliminary hearing at the Chesterfield County General District Court at 9500 Courthouse Road. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must show probable cause that you used a communications system with the intent to commit a predicate offense. Cases then move to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for trial. Digital forensics evidence from phones and computers is central to these cases.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be arrested and have a bond hearing. Bond is often denied or set high for these charges.
- Preliminary Hearing: A hearing in General District Court within 21-60 days to determine if there is probable cause for the felony.
- Grand Jury Indictment: If the judge finds probable cause, the case is sent to a grand jury for a formal indictment.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: You enter a plea of not guilty in Chesterfield County Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to challenge evidence and reviews all discovery, including forensic reports.
- Trial or Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial or, if in your best interest, negotiations for a reduced charge.
Penalties for Use of Communications Systems to Facilitate Offenses Against Minors
In Chesterfield County, a conviction for use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors is a Class 6 felony carrying 1-5 years in prison per count 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 per count (or up to 12 months if sentenced as a misdemeanor) | Up to $2,500 | None | Lifetime sex offender registration, possible GPS monitoring, loss of professional licenses, difficulty finding housing/employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience Defending Against Online Child Exploitation Charges
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 the use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors, especially the mandatory lifetime sex offender registry. Our defense strategy for these internet crime involving minor charges in Chesterfield County involves a meticulous review of all digital evidence, challenging the prosecution’s proof of intent, and exploring all procedural and constitutional defenses.
Case Results in Chesterfield County
Our firm has documented results defending clients in Chesterfield County courts. In one case, we secured a Nolle Prosequi (dismissal) for a client facing solicitation charges. Every case is unique, and we fight to protect our clients’ rights and futures from the severe penalties associated with these charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Chesterfield County Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Chesterfield County courts. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 360. We serve communities including Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
FAQs: Use of Communications Systems to Facilitate Offenses Against Minors in Chesterfield County
What does “use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors” mean in Virginia?
It is using a phone, internet, text, or other system to arrange or try to arrange a meeting with a minor to commit a sex crime. It is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-374.3.
What is the penalty for this charge in Chesterfield County?
1 to 5 years in prison per count, a fine up to $2,500, and mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender. Sentences can run consecutively for multiple counts.
Do I need an online child exploitation defense lawyer in Chesterfield County?
Yes. These cases involve complex digital evidence and severe penalties. An experienced lawyer can challenge the evidence and the intent element required for conviction.
What should I do if I am investigated for an internet crime involving a minor?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a lawyer immediately. Preserve any devices but do not attempt to delete or alter data, as this can lead to additional charges.
Can the charge be reduced to avoid sex offender registration?
It depends. In some cases, negotiation may lead to a plea to a non-registry offense. This is a primary goal of defense strategy and depends on the specific facts and evidence.
For more information on Virginia law, see the official Va. Code § 18.2-374.3 and the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
If you are facing related charges, see our pages for Criminal Defense in Chesterfield County or Sex Crime Defense in Henrico County. For a full overview, visit our Virginia Sex Crime Defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.