West Palm Beach Child Pornography Lawyer
Experienced sex crimes attorney David Joffe
specializes in tough federal & state defense cases
Child pornography is illegal in all 50 states, and whether you have been charged with possessing child pornography or producing it, a conviction can be devastating. If you’re facing this type of sex crimes charge, immediately consult with an expert West Palm Beach child pornography attorney to ensure your rights are protected from the start. The right defense counsel could help you significantly reduce the charges you face.
The Internet plays a large role in today’s child pornography crimes, and even visiting a suspicious website or opening an email link could put you at risk for exposure to illegal material without your knowledge. Perhaps someone else was using your computer when the illegal material was downloaded. The expert federal criminal attorneys at Joffe Law, P.A. in West Palm Beach can serve as a legal ally by using such information to bolster the defense of those accused of possessing child pornography.
What laws govern child pornography cases?
Florida law prohibits the possession, production and distribution of sexual imagery involving minors under the age of 18. If a minor depicted in sexual imagery can be proven to be under the age of 5, charges become of an aggravated nature. Aggravated child pornography charges can also be levied in cases involving imagery depicting sexual violence and bestiality.
Federal laws apply to child pornography in all states. Sexual exploitation of a minor, sex trafficking and production of sexually explicit material can all constitute federal child pornography charges. These charges carry federal penalties which often more are severe, making it all the more important to have an experienced West Palm Beach sex crimes lawyer in charge of your defense.
Do not say anything that might incriminate you. Speak with an attorney first.
What are the penalties upon conviction in Florida?
Florida penalties as they relate to child pornography charges vary based on the nature of the offense. Possession of child pornography is a third-degree felony, while production can be a much more serious offense depending on the circumstances involved. Additionally, if a defendant is accused of producing the child pornography he allegedly possesses, charges and penalties may overlap and stack.
Here are some common examples of penalties for child pornography in West Palm Beach:
- possession of child pornography – 5 years in prison/$5,000 fine
- multiple counts of child pornography possession – additional time in prison for each count
- aggravated possession of child pornography – 15 years in prison/$15,000 fine
While child pornography charges vary based on the circumstances of the case, any charge and conviction can cause the loss of freedom and a hefty amount of fines and fees. To ensure that you receive sound legal representation, it’s recommended that you seek out the services of a child pornography defense lawyer to help you navigate your case and address your charges.
Child pornography and sex offender status
Aside from the potential for prison time and large financial penalties, being convicted of child pornography possession and/or production can have far-reaching consequences that may haunt you for the rest of your life.
Individuals in West Palm Beach who have been convicted of charges involving child pornography must register as a sex offender. Not only will a registered sex offender be required to enroll in a searchable database, but there are restrictions on where a registered sex offender can work and live as well as who they can associate with.
Child pornography and cybercrime
While child pornography charges in West Palm Beach do not always involve digital communications, they often do. Because of this, child pornography cases may involve federal authorities in additional to state and local law enforcement and prosecutors because these crimes are deemed cybercrimes.
The FBI and other agencies can be involved in the investigation and prosecution of child pornography cases in West Palm Beach, making it all the more important to partner with a legal defense team that specializes in such matters.
Contact a child pornography defense lawyer attorney near you
If you’ve been accused and charged with crimes involving child pornography, the West Palm Beach child pornography defense firm of Joffe Law is standing by to help. Our criminal defense attorneys understand the complexities involved in child pornography cases, and we can examine your case from every angle to craft legal strategies designed to bring about the most advantageous outcome.
To schedule your consultation with a West Palm Beach child pornography defense lawyer, contact Joffe Law, P.A. by calling (561) 800-0255.