Facing a sexual battery charge in Augusta County? Under Va. Code § 18.2-67.4, sexual battery is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 13 documented case results in Augusta County. A Sexual Battery Lawyer Augusta County can help protect your rights and future.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-67.4 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Understanding Sexual Battery Under Virginia Law
Virginia law defines sexual battery under Va. Code § 18.2-67.4 as unwanted sexual touching of another person. This charge applies when the touching is against the victim’s will, by force, threat, or intimidation, or when the victim is incapacitated. Unlike rape or forcible sodomy, sexual battery does not require penetration. The charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor, but the consequences can be severe, including mandatory sex offender registration in some cases. An unwanted sexual contact defense lawyer Augusta County can explain how the law applies to your specific situation.
External Citation Links
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-67.4 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures, visit the Augusta County General District Court website.
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Augusta County
Augusta County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials, including sexual battery cases. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Augusta County prosecutes these cases. First offender programs may be available under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 — successful completion can result in dismissal.
- Initial Appearance: You appear before the magistrate or judge for bond setting and advisement of rights.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea. Your attorney can request a continuance to review evidence.
- Discovery: The prosecution must share evidence. Your attorney reviews police reports, witness statements, and any forensic evidence.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Trial or Plea: If no resolution is reached, the case proceeds to trial before a judge. You have the right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties. Your attorney argues for alternatives to jail, such as probation or a first offender program.
Penalty Table for Sexual Battery in Augusta County
In Augusta County, sexual battery under Va. Code § 18.2-67.4 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sexual Battery (§ 18.2-67.4) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Sex offender registration (if certain factors apply); permanent criminal record; professional license impact |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
E-E-A-T Authority Block: Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. The firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to clients across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington, D.C. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating our firm’s ability to effect real change in Virginia law.
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
Case Results in Augusta County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 13 total documented case results across all practice areas in Augusta County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts. Firm-wide, we have achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington, D.C.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Pack Trigger Block
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at Augusta County courts (6 East Johnson Street), accessible via I-81, I-64, Route 11, Route 250, and Route 340. Looking for a Sexual Battery Lawyer Augusta County near you? We serve Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock Location
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Battery in Augusta County
Q: Is sexual battery a felony in Augusta County, Virginia?
No. Under Va. Code § 18.2-67.4, sexual battery is a Class 1 misdemeanor, not a felony. However, certain aggravating factors can elevate the charge to a felony, such as when the victim is under 13 years old.
Q: Do I have to register as a sex offender for a sexual battery conviction?
It depends. Under Virginia law, sexual battery does not automatically require sex offender registration. However, if the offense involved certain aggravating factors — such as the victim being a minor or the use of force — the court may order registration.
Q: Can a sexual battery charge be dismissed in Augusta County?
Yes. A sexual battery charge can be dismissed through several mechanisms: successful completion of a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, a nolle prosequi by the Commonwealth’s Attorney, or a finding of not guilty at trial.
Q: How long do I have to respond to a sexual battery charge in Augusta County?
You must appear at your initial court date, typically within 21-60 days of the charge being filed. Failure to appear can result in a bench warrant for your arrest. Contact a Sexual Battery Lawyer Augusta County immediately.
Q: What is the difference between sexual battery and assault and battery in Virginia?
Sexual battery under Va. Code § 18.2-67.4 involves unwanted sexual touching, while assault and battery under § 18.2-57 involves non-sexual physical harm or threat. Both are Class 1 misdemeanors, but sexual battery carries additional stigma and potential registration requirements.
Q: Can I get a first offender program for sexual battery in Augusta County?
It depends. Under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, first offender programs are available for certain offenses. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Augusta County has discretion to offer this option. A sexual battery charge lawyer Augusta County can negotiate for this alternative.
Internal Links
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. See also our Shenandoah County Criminal Defense Lawyer and Rockingham County Criminal Defense Lawyer pages. For related services in Augusta County, see our DUI Lawyer Augusta County and Family Law Lawyer Augusta County pages.
Learn more about our team: Matthew Greene, Sex Crimes Defense Attorney. Visit our Shenandoah/Woodstock Office location page.
Freshness Block
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.