Virginia Statutory Rape Lawyer

Statutory Rape Laws and Penalties in Virginia

In Virginia, it’s legally assumed that minors cannot give informed consent to sexual activities.  It’s, therefore, illegal for an 18-year-old or older adult to have sexual intercourse with someone under the age of consent, even if it’s consensual—this is where the statutory rape laws come into play. 

Although not as severe as rape and other sexual offenses, statutory rape in Virginia is taken incredibly seriously. This offense comes with harsh penalties, including jail sentences and hefty fines. 

Furthermore, the offender cannot evade the long-term effects of registering with the sex offender registry, even after serving the jail sentence or paying the fine. 

To mitigate the above consequences, anyone charged with statutory rape in Virginia should consult an experienced sex crime attorney immediately. Attorney Jad Sarsour is here to help. With a ton of experience and knowledge, Jad is your choice to get the charge dismissed or reduced to a less serious offense.

What Constitutes Statutory Rape in Virginia?

A number of statutes define the penalties for statutory rape in Virginia.

According to the VA code section 18-2-61, someone can be convicted of rape if they have sexual intercourse with a child younger than 13 years old. Punishment for this offense ranges from a 5-year sentence to life imprisonment, depending on the age of the accused. 

VA Code Section 18.2-63 stipulates the penalties for a person 18 years of age or older who carnally knows a minor between thirteen and fourteen years of age. It’s a class 4 felony punishable by a jail sentence ranging between 2 and 10 years or a maximum fine of $100,000.

Engaging in sexual intercourse with a minor 15–17 years of age is a class one misdemeanor that attracts a maximum jail term of one year and a $2,500 fine.

Like several states, Virginia has Romeo & Juliet Laws or close-in-age exemptions to statutory rape charges. 

Romeo and Juliet’s exception is designed to protect teens under 18 years old who engage in consensual sexual activities. The exemption requires that the accused be at most three years older than the consenting minor. Also, it’s a limited exception that serves to reduce the charge to a Class 4 misdemeanor or Class 6 felony, depending on the age difference between the parties.

All in all, statutory rape in Virginia comes with vigorous prosecution, with penalties varying with the nature of the offense, defense witnesses, and other available information. This, combined with the fact that sex crimes in Virginia continually change, calls for a partnership with a reputable attorney like Jad Sarsour. 

Jad has the experience, knowledge, and wisdom to evaluate your situation and establish a zealous defense to reclaim your freedom. 

Registering with the Sex Offender Registry

If you are convicted of having sex with a person below the legal age of consent in Virginia, the state may require you to register on the sex offender registry. 

The registry is available to the general public, including prospective employers, potential spouses, and landlords. With this, finding a home to rent or landing job opportunities is undoubtedly daunting for a person convicted with statutory rape in Virginia.  

Besides, you may be prohibited from going near particular places where children frequent, including playgrounds and schools. The police may also monitor your location and employment.

Note that failure to register on the sex offender registry is a criminal offense, with the first offense attracting a one-year jail sentence and/or a maximum fine of $2,500. A subsequent violation is deemed a class 6 felony punishable with up to 5 years imprisonment.

Why Hire an Attorney?

When accused of statutory rape, contact a reliable sex crimes attorney immediately to avoid harsh penalties and the long-term consequences of a conviction. 

You’ll want to work with a professional who understands the unique aspects of your case and is willing and able to dedicate the required time to pursue a robust defense on your behalf.

Need Help with a Statutory Rape Case in Virginia?

The above information is just a basic review of the underage sex laws in the state of Virginia. If you are facing a statutory rape charge or have questions about Virginia’s sex crime laws, don’t shy away from contacting Jad Sarsour. 

Jad boasts decades of experience fighting for the rights of individuals charged with criminal offenses in Virginia. Trust him to build a zealous defense that guarantees the best results from your statutory rape case.