Use of Communications Systems to Facilitate Offenses Against Minors Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
The use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-374.3, punishable by 1-5 years in prison and mandatory lifetime sex offender registration. In Arlington County, these cases are prosecuted aggressively at the Arlington County General District Court (1425 N. Courthouse Rd). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington 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 felony to use any communications system, including the internet, phone, or text messages, to knowingly facilitate, solicit, or entice certain sexual offenses involving a minor. The statute is broad and covers attempts to arrange meetings for illegal purposes, even if no physical contact occurs. The law targets predatory online behavior and is a primary tool for law enforcement in internet sting operations. Conviction carries severe, long-term consequences beyond incarceration.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands the technical and legal details of these charges. We analyze the evidence, including digital forensics and the specifics of the communication, to build a strong defense.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-374.3 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Arlington County felony cases are heard at the Arlington County Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing in General District Court.
Arlington County Court Process for Internet Sex Crime Charges
Arlington County prosecutors treat these cases with high priority. The process often begins with an undercover online investigation. After an arrest, your first hearing will be at the Arlington County General District Court for a bond hearing and to set a date for a preliminary hearing. The Commonwealth must prove probable cause at the preliminary hearing before the case moves to Circuit Court for trial. Digital evidence, such as chat logs and IP addresses, is central to the prosecution’s case.
- Secure Legal Representation Immediately: Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Contact a lawyer experienced in internet crime involving minor lawyer Arlington County cases.
- Attend the Bond Hearing: Argue for reasonable bond conditions. GPS monitoring is often requested by the prosecution.
- Prepare for the Preliminary Hearing: Your lawyer will challenge the prosecution’s evidence to try to get charges reduced or dismissed before trial.
- Develop a Defense Strategy for Circuit Court: This may involve motions to suppress evidence, experienced witnesses on digital forensics, and negotiating for a non-registry outcome.
- Trial or Resolution: The case will proceed to a jury trial in Circuit Court or be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Potential Penalties in Arlington County
In Arlington County, a conviction for use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors is a Class 6 felony with a prison sentence of 1 to 5 years, or up to 12 months in jail 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 in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) | Up to $2,500 | None | Mandatory lifetime sex offender registration under Va. Code § 9.1-901; possible GPS monitoring; permanent criminal record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors and attorneys with deep knowledge of Virginia’s sex crime laws and Arlington County court procedures. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in complex cases.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a track record of handling sensitive cases. For example, we have successfully represented clients facing multiple felony charges of computer solicitation, achieving outcomes such as bond reinstatement and charge reductions. In Arlington County, we have 115 total documented case results across all practice areas. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems is a distinct advantage in cases involving digital evidence and financial aspects.
Contact Our Arlington County Defense Lawyers
Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209 is near the Arlington County Courthouse, serving clients in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, and Pentagon City. We are a dedicated use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors lawyer Arlington County resource.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “use of communications systems to facilitate offenses against minors” mean in Virginia?
It is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-374.3. It involves using any electronic system (internet, phone, app) to knowingly arrange, solicit, or entice someone to commit a listed sexual offense with a minor. The crime is complete upon the communication, even if no meeting occurs.
What are the penalties for this charge in Arlington County?
It is a Class 6 felony punishable by 1-5 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500. A conviction also requires mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender. The Arlington County Commonwealth’s Attorney seeks severe penalties, making early defense intervention critical.
Do I need a lawyer who handles internet crimes?
Yes. An online child exploitation defense lawyer Arlington County understands the digital evidence involved, such as IP logs and chat records. They can challenge how evidence was obtained and work with forensic experts to contest the prosecution’s case.
Can I avoid the sex offender registry if convicted?
Most felony convictions under § 18.2-374.3 trigger mandatory lifetime registration. A primary goal of defense is often to negotiate a reduction to a charge that does not require registry, such as a misdemeanor, or to seek a dismissal of the charges altogether.
What should I do if I am under investigation?
Immediately exercise your right to remain silent and contact an attorney. Do not answer questions, delete files, or use the devices in question. An experienced internet crime involving minor lawyer Arlington County can advise you on the next steps and interact with law enforcement on your behalf.
For more information, see our Virginia Sex Crime Defense hub page, or read about sex crime defense in Alexandria. We also assist with general criminal defense in Arlington County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.