Carnal Knowledge of a Child 13 or 14 Lawyer in Rappahannock County, Virginia
Carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 is a Class 4 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-63, carrying 2 to 10 years in prison and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration. In Rappahannock County, these cases are prosecuted aggressively at the Circuit Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these serious charges. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Rappahannock County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Carnal Knowledge of a Child 13 or 14
The crime of carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-63. It involves sexual intercourse with a child who is at least 13 years old but less than 15 years old. A key element is that the accused must be at least 18 years old. Consent is not a defense, as a child of this age cannot legally consent to sexual activity. The statute is part of Virginia’s full framework for protecting minors from sexual exploitation. The firm’s founder, a former prosecutor, has over 120 years of combined firm experience in handling complex sex crime defenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-63 (official Virginia General Assembly). Rappahannock County cases are heard at the Rappahannock County General District Court for preliminary hearings and the Circuit Court for trials.
Defense Strategy in Rappahannock County
Defending against a carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 charge in Rappahannock County requires immediate and careful action. The Commonwealth’s Attorney pursues these cases vigorously. A primary defense focus is often challenging the element of the accused’s age or the child’s age, as miscalculation can be a complete defense. Evidence collection, including digital communications and witness statements, is critical early in the process.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or upon learning of an investigation.
- Your attorney will file for a bond hearing in Rappahannock County General District Court.
- Your lawyer will review all evidence, including police reports and digital forensics.
- Your defense will be prepared for the preliminary hearing to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- If indicted, your case moves to Rappahannock County Circuit Court for trial or negotiation.
- Your attorney will advocate for the best possible outcome, aiming to avoid a conviction that triggers lifetime registry.
Potential Penalties for Carnal Knowledge of a Child 13 or 14
In Rappahannock County, a conviction for carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 carries severe, long-term consequences beyond incarceration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carnal Knowledge of a Child 13 or 14 (Va. Code § 18.2-63) | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Mandatory lifetime sex offender registration; possible GPS monitoring; loss of professional licenses; restrictions on where you can live and work. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Legal Experience for Your Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. The firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of a carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 charge and the specific procedures of Rappahannock County courts. Our approach is focused on building a strong, evidence-based defense from the outset.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of handling sensitive sex crime cases. In one case in Bedford County Circuit Court, we secured a reinstated bond for a client facing three felony charges of computer solicitation of a minor. In another Fairfax County case, a possession of child pornography charge resulted in a fully suspended jail sentence. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
In Rappahannock County, we have 40 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 98% favorable outcome rate. For a statutory rape defense lawyer in Rappahannock County, our team provides focused representation. Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Contact Our Rappahannock County Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Rappahannock County courts (250 Gay Street). We provide legal support for communities including Washington, Sperryville, and Flint Hill.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 in Virginia?
It is a Class 4 felony punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison, a fine up to $100,000, and mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender under Va. Code § 9.1-901.
Do I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?
Yes. A conviction for carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 under Va. Code § 18.2-63 triggers a mandatory lifetime registration requirement with the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry.
What is the main difference between this charge and statutory rape?
In Virginia, “carnal knowledge” is the specific statutory term used for what is commonly called statutory rape. The charge of carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14 applies when the victim is 13 or 14 and the accused is at least 18. Other statutes cover different age combinations.
Can the child’s consent be a defense?
No. Under Virginia law, a child who is 13 or 14 years old cannot legally consent to sexual activity with an adult. Therefore, consent is not a valid defense to a charge of carnal knowledge of a child 13 or 14.
Where will my case be heard in Rappahannock County?
Your preliminary hearing will be at the Rappahannock County General District Court (250 Gay Street, Suite 1, Washington, VA). If the case proceeds, the trial will be at the Rappahannock County Circuit Court at the same address.
For more information, see our page on Virginia sex crime defense. We also assist with related charges like criminal defense in Rappahannock County. If you need an underage sex charge lawyer in Rappahannock County, contact us immediately.