Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian lawyer Fairfax County, VA

Facing a charge of taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian in Fairfax County, Virginia, is a severe and often overwhelming experience. The accusation alone can have immediate and profound consequences for your career, your security clearance, and your family relationships. Under Virginia Code § 18.2-370, this offense is classified as a Class 6 felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of one to five years and mandatory sex offender registration upon conviction. In Fairfax County — home to a large community of federal employees, government contractors, and technology professionals — the collateral damage of a sex crime charge can be career-ending. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., with a location in Fairfax, provides experienced defense representation for individuals facing these serious allegations. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor and Owner and Founder of the firm, and his Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to these matters. Results may vary. Our team works to protect your rights from the earliest stages of an investigation through trial, focusing on thorough preparation and strategic challenges to the prosecution’s evidence. To request a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Last reviewed: July 2026

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What “Taking Indecent Liberties with a Child by Custodian” Means in Fairfax County, Virginia

The charge of taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-370. It applies when a person who is at least 18 years old and who has a custodial or supervisory relationship over a child under the age of 15 knowingly and intentionally engages in acts with sexual intent that do not necessarily involve physical contact. The statute covers a broad range of conduct, and even a minimal physical touch or a non‑physical act can serve as the basis for a felony charge. Because the alleged victim is a child and the accused is in a position of trust, these cases are treated with extreme seriousness by Fairfax County prosecutors.

In Fairfax County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney devotes substantial resources to sex crime prosecutions. Criminal cases proceed through the Fairfax County General District Court for preliminary hearings and then to the Fairfax County Circuit Court for trial. The felony process often involves a grand jury indictment. Sex crime cases in this jurisdiction frequently rely on forensic evidence — including DNA analysis and digital forensics — as well as forensic interviews with the alleged victim. A person convicted of this offense becomes subject to the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry, a lifetime requirement in most felony cases. For individuals who hold security clearances, professional licenses, or positions in government contracting, the mere pendency of such a charge can trigger immediate employment consequences and clearance suspension. Recognizing the stakes, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. approaches every Fairfax County taking indecent liberties case with thorough preparation and a focus on protecting the client’s rights at each stage of the proceeding.

Under Va. Code § 18.2-370, taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian is a Class 6 felony, punishable by imprisonment of one to five years.

Source: Va. Code § 18.2-370. Virginia Legislative Information System

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle These Cases in Fairfax County

When a person becomes aware of an investigation or is arrested for taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian, the actions taken in the first hours and days can significantly affect the outcome. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin by conducting an immediate, independent analysis of the allegations. They review the forensic evidence, evaluate the credibility of witness statements, and identify any procedural or constitutional issues that may arise from how law enforcement gathered information. Because Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor, he understands how the Commonwealth will build its case and can anticipate the prosecution’s strategy.

The defense approach in Fairfax County often includes negotiations with the prosecutor’s office, seeking a reduction of the charge to an offense that does not require sex offender registration, or preparing the case for trial when circumstances warrant. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have a deep familiarity with the local judges and courtroom practices at the Fairfax County Circuit Court. While every case is different, the firm’s objective remains consistent: to obtain the most favorable resolution possible under the facts. Throughout the process, the client is kept informed and is involved in all key decisions.

Counsel handling sex crimes matters at Fairfax County General District Court in Fairfax County have documented 103 case results in this practice area. The court is currently presided over by Hon. Michael Joseph Holleran. Court hours: Mon-Fri 8:00AM-4:00PM. Past results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing law since 1997. He is a former prosecutor, which provides him with substantial insight into how the prosecution builds cases in criminal matters. Mr. Sris is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His legislative involvement includes testifying before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are experienced litigators who complement Mr. Sris’s background. They have extensive trial experience, including cases that involve challenging scientific and technical evidence. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to sex crime defense. Results may vary. The team works collaboratively on every case, ensuring that the client benefits from the collective knowledge and skills of the entire firm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian in Virginia?

A conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-370 for taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian is a Class 6 felony and carries a prison term of one to five years. In addition to incarceration, a conviction requires mandatory registration as a sex offender under the Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry Act. The registry obligation is typically lifelong for felony sex offenses. Registration imposes strict reporting requirements and restricts where a registrant may live and work. The exact sentence in a particular case depends on the facts, the defendant’s prior record, and any plea negotiations. To discuss your specific circumstances, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Do I have to register as a sex offender if convicted of this charge in Fairfax County?

Yes, a felony conviction for taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian under Va. Code § 18.2-370 triggers a lifetime obligation to register as a sex offender in Virginia. The Virginia Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry Act (Va. Code § 9.1-901) requires registrants to provide and regularly update personal information, including residence, employment, and vehicle details, with the Virginia State Police. Failure to register is a separate criminal offense. Because the registry requirement has profound consequences, a central objective of the defense strategy is often to negotiate a plea to an offense that does not require registration when possible under the evidence.

What should I do if I am facing these charges in Fairfax County?

If you are facing a charge of taking indecent liberties with a child by a custodian, you should immediately seek representation from a sex crimes defense lawyer and refrain from discussing the details of the case with anyone other than your attorney. Do not post about the situation on social media or talk about it with friends, coworkers, or law enforcement without counsel present. Preserve any documents or electronic records that may be relevant. The sooner experienced counsel can become involved, the sooner they can evaluate the allegations and begin building a defense strategy. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

How does a defense lawyer challenge these accusations in Fairfax County?

Defense strategies in a taking indecent liberties case may involve challenging the credibility of the allegations, the reliability of witness testimony, and the validity of any forensic evidence presented by the prosecution. In Fairfax County, experienced defense counsel will scrutinize the investigative process for constitutional violations, such as improper searches and seizures or coercive interrogation techniques. They may also evaluate whether the prosecution can prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt, particularly the acts underlying the charge and the existence of a custodial relationship. Each defense is tailored to the specific facts of the case.

Can taking indecent liberties charges be reduced in Virginia?

Yes, in many cases a skilled defense attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor to have a felony taking indecent liberties charge reduced to a lesser offense, particularly a misdemeanor that may not require sex offender registration. Reductions often depend on the strength of the evidence, the defendant’s prior record, the age differential, and the willingness of the complaining witness to cooperate. A reduction can dramatically change the long-term consequences of the case. Because the Commonwealth of Fairfax County assigns experienced prosecutors to sex crime cases, securing a favorable plea requires a thorough understanding of Virginia law and a persuasive presentation of mitigating facts.

How long does a sex crime case take in Fairfax County?

The timeline for a sex crime case in Fairfax County varies depending on the complexity of the evidence, the court’s calendar, and whether the case proceeds to trial or resolves by plea. A preliminary hearing in the Fairfax County General District Court generally occurs within a few weeks of arrest. If the case is certified by the grand jury to the Circuit Court, the trial may be scheduled many months later. Forensic analysis of digital evidence and DNA can add additional time. An attorney familiar with the local process can provide a more accurate estimate once the specific charges and evidence are evaluated. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

For information on sex crime defense in neighboring Virginia localities, see:

For additional authoritative resources related to Virginia sex crime laws and Fairfax County courts, visit:

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.

Results may vary.