Warrenton Child Sexual Abuse Defense Lawyers

Crimes involving child sexual abuse are prosecuted vigorously in Virginia. If you are convicted of molestation, soliciting of a minor or another offense, you could face prison time and registration as a sex offender for the rest of your life. Even if you are not convicted, the accusation itself can be extremely damaging to your personal and professional life.

If you have been charged with child sexual abuse, sexual assault or other sex crime, it is important to have the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can aggressively and proactively defend you.

What Should You Do If You Are Under Investigation For Child Sexual Abuse In Northern Virginia?

The following steps can help guide you through this challenging time:

• Contact a sex crimes defense lawyer before speaking with law enforcement or anyone else about your case
• Remain silent about your case, as anything you say could be used against you in court
• Preserve all relevant evidence that might support your defense
• Avoid contact with the alleged victim or their family
• Do not discuss your case on social media or through electronic communications
• Follow your attorney’s guidance regarding all interactions with investigators

Remember that an investigation does not mean you will be charged and being charged does not mean you will be convicted. Our attorneys will work diligently to build your defense when you contact us.

Understanding The Various Child Sex Abuse Laws In Virginia

Virginia’s laws addressing child sexual abuse are comprehensive and carry severe penalties, including:

Taking Indecent Liberties With A Child

Under Virginia Code § 18.2-370, taking indecent liberties with a child involves specific actions committed with a child under age 15. This offense includes exposing oneself to a child, proposing sexual acts or enticing a child to enter a location for sexual purposes. Examples include indecent exposure in the presence of a child, showing obscene materials to a minor or suggesting sexual intercourse to someone under 15. These offenses are typically Class 5 felonies, carrying potential prison time and lifetime sex offender registration.

Carnal Knowledge Of A Child Between 13 And 15 Years Of Age

Virginia Code Section 18.2-63 addresses sexual penetration involving children between 13 and 15 years old. This statute prohibits sexual relations with minors in this age range, regardless of consent. Penalties vary based on the age difference between the parties. When the accused is an adult at least three years older than the victim, it is a Class 4 felony punishable by two to 10 years imprisonment. For offenders less than three years older, it is a Class 6 felony with lesser penalties.

Carnal Knowledge Of Certain Minors

Virginia Code Section 18.2-64.1 and Section 18.2-64.2 address sexual offenses involving minors in specific custodial situations. These laws prohibit sexual battery and sexual relations between individuals in positions of authority and minors in their care.

These cases often intersect with family law concerns. Our firm also handles family law matters that may arise during these difficult situations.

Understanding How To Defend You In Court

At the law firm of Mark B. Williams & Associates, PLC, in Warrenton, we offer an extraordinary depth and breadth of experience in matters involving children. In addition to having represented thousands of clients in a variety of criminal matters, attorney Mark B. Williams was a social work supervisor in charge of child protective services before he became a lawyer. He then worked as an attorney for the Department of Social Services for five years. This experience makes him an effective advocate for those charged with sex crimes in Virginia.

How we can help: In cases where child sexual abuse is alleged, the first thing we do is conduct a thorough investigation. Our attorneys talk to potential witnesses, review physical evidence and other forms of evidence, conduct research, work with private investigators and identify experts who can help us defend our clients.

When alleged abuse occurs within the context of a divorce or custody dispute or when there is concern that a child was prompted to report abuse that simply didn’t happen, we can explore motives and challenge assumptions about the accusations. In every situation, our attorneys will gather as much information as possible in order to prepare your defense, which involves working aggressively to reduce the charges or have them dismissed.

Attorneys Available For You When You Need Them The Most

The law office of Mark B. Williams & Associates, PLC, has at its disposal knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys who will aggressively protect your rights. Contact us online or call us at 540-254-0757 to schedule a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys have represented clients in more than 100 felony trials since 1990.