Portsmouth Child Pornography Lawyer

Virginia Code § 18.2-374.1:1 covers child pornography offenses on the state level. This includes crimes like the possession, distribution, reproduction, solicitation, and facilitation of child pornography. Penalties are dependent on the defendant’s criminal record and the severity of the offense:

• Possession. Possession of child pornography is considered to be a class 6 felony, which is punishable by one to five years in prison and can potentially also come with fines.
• Second or subsequent possession offenses. Reoccurring offenses can escalate charges to a class 5 felony, which can result in up to 10 years in prison.
• Distribution, reproduction, or solicitation. Distributing, reproducing, or soliciting child pornography can incur a prison sentence of 5 to 20 years. Subsequent offenses may come with a mandatory minimum of five years.
• Website operation. Operating a website to help facilitate access to child pornography is classified as a class 4 felony, which can include both significant fines and prison sentences.

Furthermore, federal statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 2251 (Sexual Exploitation of Children) and 18 U.S.C. § 2252 (Distribution and Possession of Child Pornography) ensure that offenders have severe penalties, such as mandatory minimum prison sentences of five to 30 years, depending on the case details. An experienced defense attorney can help you understand the differences.

Facing a child pornography charge can come with not only significant legal consequences but also repercussions that can impact your job and your personal life. This means that in addition to the criminal penalties, those who are convicted may be required to register as sex offenders, which can have significant restrictions on where they can go, live, and work. Depending on the situation, offenders may also lose their jobs and face lifetime supervision.

Given the severe consequences of these crimes, it is crucial to work with an empathetic Portsmouth criminal defense lawyer. An attorney from our team is eager to:

• Launch an investigation. We can go over the details of your case to determine whether your fundamental rights were breached or if you were subject to unlawful search and seizure.
• Challenge the evidence. After analyzing the evidence against you, we can work with subject matter professionals to prove any inconsistencies or inaccuracies in the prosecution’s argument.
• Plea deal negotiation. If appropriate, an attorney from our firm can help negotiate an optimal plea agreement.
• Trial defense. We can use optimal techniques, such as procedural defenses and authoritative testimony, to illuminate your side of the story.

If you’re facing charges for child pornography on the state level in Portsmouth, your case will likely be processed through the Portsmouth Circuit Court, which has jurisdiction over felony cases. A skilled attorney from our firm can ensure your rights and interests are defended throughout your legal proceedings, from arraignment to trial.

The city of Portsmouth is home to 97,915 residents as of 2024, with the median household income being $54,611. As 17.4% of Portsmouth residents are living below the poverty line, many may wonder about their ability to hire quality legal defense. If legal fees are a concern you have about your child pornography case, keep in mind that a knowledgeable attorney can help protect you from a criminal record and future related issues. Consult with an experienced child pornography lawyer to learn your options.

Q: What Should I Do if I Am Accused of Possessing Child Pornography?

A: If you’ve been accused of possessing child pornography crimes, it’s crucial to keep your calm and remain silent. Do not speak with law enforcement about your case until your criminal defense attorney is present. Anything you say could be used against you as evidence later on in court. As soon as you can, get in touch with an experienced Portsmouth criminal defense lawyer.

Q: Can a Conviction Result in Lifetime Sex Offender Registration?

A: Yes, a conviction for child pornography can lead to required sex offender registration, which can impact various aspects of your life, including where you’re allowed to live, the type of jobs you can have, and even where you can go. Being registered as a sex offender can also come with social consequences, leaving individuals feeling isolated from their communities.

Q: What Happens if Law Enforcement Seizes My Computer?

A: If law enforcement seizes your computer, they will likely search it for evidence related to the alleged crime. They will then hold the computer as part of their investigation until the case is resolved or a court orders its return. It is important to contact a skilled criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. They can question the legality of the procedure to seize your computer and any forensic investigation methods used by law enforcement.

Q: Can I Fight the Charges if the Images Were Found on My Device?

A: Yes, if images were found on your device, you can still fight the charges against you. Multiple factors, such as unauthorized access, malware, and hacking, could explain why the illicit files were on your device. By working with a knowledgeable digital forensic professional, you can successfully establish a strong defense.

If you or a loved one is facing child pornography charges in Portsmouth, Virginia, a compassionate and skilled attorney from Johnson/Citronberg is ready to defend your rights and interests. Contact us today to schedule your consultation, and we can start discussing the details of your case confidentially.