An Internet sex crime charge in Chesapeake carries severe penalties under Va. Code § 18.2-374.3, including mandatory sex offender registration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed/not guilty. Former prosecutors on staff provide strong defense. 24/7 consultation available.
Virginia law defines Internet sex crimes under Va. Code § 18.2-374.3, which prohibits using a computer or electronic device to solicit a minor for sexual activity. This includes online solicitation, possession of child pornography, and electronic enticement. These offenses are Class 5 felonies, carrying 1-10 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration under Va. Code § 9.1-902. The law applies to any electronic communication, including social media, chat rooms, and messaging apps.
Last verified: 2026-04 | Chesapeake General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-374.3 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For more information on Virginia Internet sex crime laws, visit the Virginia General Assembly code for § 18.2-374.3. Court procedures are governed by the Chesapeake General District Court.
In Chesapeake General District Court, prosecutors often seek pretrial detention for Internet sex crime defendants due to flight risk and community safety concerns. The court at 307 Albemarle Drive handles preliminary hearings for felony cases before transfer to Circuit Court.
- Contact a lawyer immediately — do not speak to police without counsel.
- Preserve all electronic evidence — do not delete accounts or messages.
- Attend all court hearings at Chesapeake General District Court.
- File a bond motion to secure pretrial release with conditions.
- Prepare for preliminary hearing within 21-60 days of arrest.
- Negotiate with prosecutor or proceed to Circuit Court for trial.
In Chesapeake, an Internet sex crime conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-374.3 carries 1-10 years in prison and mandatory sex offender registration.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online solicitation of a minor | Class 5 felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Mandatory sex offender registration |
| Possession of child pornography | Class 6 felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Mandatory sex offender registration |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. The firm handles Internet sex crime cases across Virginia, including Chesapeake.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
In Chesapeake, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, I-664, Route 13, Route 17, and Route 168 (Battlefield Blvd).
Internet sex crime lawyer near Chesapeake — serving Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, Greenbrier.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Q: Can Internet sex crime charges be dropped in Chesapeake?
Yes. Charges can be dropped if evidence is insufficient, if there is a lack of intent, or if the defendant completes a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. The prosecutor may also nolle prosequi the case. 1 documented result: 1 dismissed/not guilty in Chesapeake.
Q: What is the penalty for online solicitation in Chesapeake?
It depends. Online solicitation of a minor under Va. Code § 18.2-374.3 is a Class 5 felony, carrying 1-10 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500. Mandatory sex offender registration applies. Cases are heard at Chesapeake General District Court.
Q: Do I need a lawyer for an Internet sex crime in Chesapeake?
Yes. Internet sex crimes carry mandatory prison time and sex offender registration. A conviction affects employment, housing, and reputation. Former prosecutors on staff can build a strong defense. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Q: How does bail work for Internet sex crimes in Chesapeake?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. For Internet sex crimes, secured bond is typical, and GPS monitoring may be required. Bond can be appealed to Chesapeake General District Court. The court at 307 Albemarle Drive handles bond hearings.
Q: What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for Internet sex crimes?
Chesapeake General District Court handles preliminary hearings for felony Internet sex crimes. Chesapeake Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.