Use of Communications Systems to Facilitate Offenses Against Minors Lawyer in Virginia
The use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors is a serious felony under Virginia law, specifically Va. Code § 18.2-374.3. This statute criminalizes using phones, computers, or the internet to solicit, entice, or arrange illegal sexual contact with a minor. A conviction carries severe penalties, including mandatory prison time and lifetime sex offender registration.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia law aggressively prosecutes crimes involving the exploitation of minors through modern technology. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-374.3, defines the specific offense of using a communications system to facilitate certain offenses against minors. This includes using any electronic device, computer network, or telecommunications system to knowingly solicit, entice, procure, or arrange a meeting with a minor for the purpose of committing certain sex crimes. The law is designed to address predatory behavior that occurs online or via electronic communication, treating the act of facilitation as a serious felony separate from the underlying intended offense.
Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, established the firm in 1997. His background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in cases involving complex digital evidence, which is common in these charges.
Official Virginia Law and Court Resources
Understanding the specific statute and the court process is critical. The official text of Va. Code § 18.2-374.3 (official Virginia General Assembly) details the elements of the crime. For information on court procedures and locations, refer to the Virginia Court System website.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You will be arrested and taken before a magistrate. Bond is frequently denied or set very high for these charges.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: Your case will be scheduled for an arraignment in the Circuit Court of the jurisdiction where the offense allegedly occurred.
- Pre-Trial Motions and Discovery: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence, challenge search warrants for electronic devices, and obtain all discovery from the prosecution, including forensic reports.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the strength of the evidence and motions, your attorney will engage in plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney or prepare for a jury trial.
- Sentencing and Registration: If convicted, you face a mandatory active prison sentence and will be required to register as a sex offender for life.
Penalties for Use of Communications Systems to Facilitate Offenses Against Minors in Virginia
In Virginia, a conviction for use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, or at the discretion of the jury, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of 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 in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Mandatory lifetime sex offender registration; potential GPS monitoring; loss of professional licenses; severe immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Virginia Sex Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93% firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of Virginia’s legal system and a commitment to providing a strong, strategic defense for charges involving technology and minors.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable results in complex sex crime cases. For instance, in Bedford County Circuit Court, we successfully defended a client facing three felony charges of computer solicitation to facilitate a sex offense with a minor. The result was a reinstated bond and an amended disposition. In Chesterfield County General District Court, we secured a nolle prosequi (dismissal) for a client charged with solicitation of prostitution.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our team, including managing attorney Mr. Sris, collaborates to bring extensive experience to every case. Mr. Sris’s unique background as a former prosecutor and his experience in information systems are particularly valuable for dissecting the digital evidence central to these charges.
Contact Our Virginia Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM; emergency evenings/weekends.
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients across Virginia, including those facing charges for the use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors. We offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are held by appointment only at our office, which is accessible via major highways and offers free on-site parking.
If you are searching for a use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors lawyer Virginia or an online child exploitation defense lawyer Virginia, contact us immediately. We also defend clients accused of other internet crime involving minor lawyer Virginia charges.
FAQs: Use of Communications Systems Charges in Virginia
What does “use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors” mean in Virginia?
It is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-374.3. It involves using any device like a phone or computer, or a service like the internet, to knowingly solicit, entice, or arrange a meeting with a minor to commit rape, sodomy, object sexual penetration, or aggravated sexual battery.
What are the penalties if I am convicted?
Conviction carries 1 to 5 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) and a fine up to $2,500. The most severe consequence is mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender in Virginia. You may also be subject to GPS monitoring and face devastating personal and professional repercussions.
Is this considered an internet crime involving a minor?
Yes. While the law covers all communications systems (phones, text), it is most commonly applied to internet crime involving minor lawyer Virginia cases, such as online chats, social media messages, or email used to set up a meeting with a minor for illegal sexual purposes.
What should I do if I am under investigation or charged?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Immediately contact a defense lawyer experienced in these felonies. An attorney can advise you on your rights, intervene in the investigation, and begin securing and analyzing digital evidence crucial to your defense.
Can the police use undercover officers in these cases?
Yes. It is common for law enforcement, including ICAC task forces, to pose as minors online to identify individuals attempting to solicit sex. The legality of these operations and the methods used are frequent points of contention and can be challenged by a skilled defense attorney.
Are there defenses to this charge?
Potential defenses include challenging the legality of the search and seizure of electronic evidence, proving a lack of criminal intent, demonstrating that you reasonably believed the person was an adult, or exposing flaws in the police investigation. An online child exploitation defense lawyer Virginia can evaluate the specifics of your case.
Related Pages: For more information, see our Virginia Sex Crimes Defense hub page. We also assist clients with related charges in Fairfax County and Virginia Beach criminal defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.