Criminal offenses involving child pornography carry steep penalties at the state and federal levels. Prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases, and convictions can result in lengthy prison terms, high fines, and a lifetime on the sex offender registry.

If you have been accused of possessing child pornography, it is vital that you speak to a seasoned attorney right away. Your choice of legal counsel could make all the difference in your case. At Ruane Attorneys, an East Windsor child pornography lawyer is prepared to help defend you against these serious allegations.

Types of Child Pornography Charges

There are various criminal offenses related to child pornography, all of which are felonies. A conviction on any of these counts could result in a lengthy prison sentence. Hiring an East Windsor attorney is the first step in fighting back against any type of child pornography charge.

Importing Child Pornography

This criminal offense involves importing three or more child pornography images into the state. This act must have been made knowingly, meaning an accident cannot result in a criminal conviction.

Possession of Child Pornography in the First Degree

Possession of child pornography in the first degree involves a person accused of knowingly possessing 50 or more depictions of child pornography. A conviction for this child pornography offense could result in up to 20 years in prison. This is the highest level of child pornography offense under state law.

Possession of Child Pornography in the Second Degree

This offense covers the knowing possession of between 20 and 50 depictions of child pornography. This specific offense is treated as a Class C felony that could lead to a maximum of ten years behind bars.

Possession of Child Pornography in the Third Degree

This offense is the lowest-level child pornography charge under state law. Possessing less than 20 different depictions of child pornography qualifies for this offense. A criminal conviction for possession of child pornography in the third degree could lead to up to five years in prison.

How an East Windsor Attorney Could Help

When the police make an arrest on a child pornography charge, it is not uncommon for them to imply that their case is airtight. Prosecutors often exhibit similar confidence. While it is understandable to fear that a conviction in these cases is guaranteed, there are often various defense strategies that a local child pornography lawyer could levy against the prosecution.

Many allegations related to the possession of child pornography stem from circumstances outside of the control of the accused. There are situations where the illegal material is unintentionally downloaded to a computer or other device due to viruses, unsolicited emails, or pop-up ads. This unintentional possession of child pornography does not qualify as a criminal act.

In other cases, the way the government approached a child pornography investigation may have violated the constitution. If the constitutional or civil rights of the accused are violated during a search of their home, office, or vehicle, any evidence found might not be admissible at trial. A lawyer could help an accused East Windsor resident determine a strong defense strategy in their child pornography case.

Discuss Your Case with an East Windsor Child Pornography Attorney

Child pornography charges carry significant social stigma in addition to serious criminal penalties upon conviction. If you are accused of a child pornography offense, it is vital that you speak to legal counsel right away.

Do not put your future in jeopardy by acting as your own attorney. Reach out to an East Windsor child pornography lawyer at Ruane Attorneys right away for legal guidance.