Hampton Roads Sex Crime Lawyer

What are the Penalties for Sex Crimes in Virginia? 

Understanding the potential penalties for sex crimes in Virginia is crucial when facing such charges. Here are some key points to consider:

• Sex crimes in Virginia carry significant and potentially life-altering consequences, including imprisonment.
• Felony sex offenses can result in lengthy prison sentences, while misdemeanor offenses can lead to shorter jail terms.
• Aggravating factors, such as using a weapon or causing serious bodily harm, can result in enhanced penalties.
• Certain sex crimes may require mandatory registration as a sex offender, which can have long-term implications.
• Offenses involving minors or child exploitation are treated with utmost seriousness and can lead to severe consequences.

Specific penalties can vary depending on the nature of the offense and other factors involved. Consulting with a knowledgeable Hampton Roads sex crime attorney will provide you with tailored advice based on the unique circumstances of your situation.

Virginia Sex Offender Registry

One of the most enduring effects of a conviction for a sex crime in Virginia and throughout the country is the sex offender registration that follows. Like most states, Virginia maintains an online database of individuals convicted of certain sexual offenses. The registry includes the following:

• The individual's home and work addresses.
• Their picture.
• The convictions that triggered registration.

Citizens can easily search this registry using zip codes as a search term.

The Virginia State Police maintain the registry, and according to the website, its purpose is to "make information more easily available and accessible, not to warn citizens about any specific individual." That is all good, but the practical effect is that individuals on the registry who may be unlikely to reoffend are forced to endure a lifetime of ridicule and harassment. And you can't avoid this scorn simply by leaving the state, as each state requires registration regardless of where the conviction occurred.

Certain offenses trigger registration, and registration is typically a lifetime requirement. However, depending upon the nature of the offense, an individual may petition the Circuit Court for removal from the registry after either 15 or 25 years.

Sex offender registries in Virginia and throughout the country are political gold for politicians. Any measure that seeks to make life more difficult for people convicted of these offenses will surely receive widespread approval from voters. These people fail to understand that the risk of reoffending in most cases is relatively low. Meanwhile, individuals on these registries find it impossible to secure employment and maintain any degree of normalcy.

If you or someone you love is facing a sex charge, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. We handle every type of sex crime, from possession of child pornography to the most serious crimes involving physical contact with minors.  

Contact Our Hampton Roads Sex Crime Attorney Today 

The Law Office of Shawn M. Cline, PC, understands how difficult it can be to face a sex crime charge. We are dedicated to attacking whatever charges you face and protecting your rights. With the representation of our firm, you can rest assured that your case will be in good hands. When you work with the dedicated legal professionals at the Law Office of Shawn M. Cline, PC, we will take immediate action to determine what strategies can be implemented to provide you with the best possible outcome for your case.

Our firm is fearless in challenging evidence, and we will work to settle your case as quickly as possible. If a case cannot be settled outside of court, you can be assured that our representatives will tenaciously litigate on your behalf.