Have you or someone you know been accused of distributing child pornography? It is critical to work with a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles in the wake of child pornography allegations of all forms. The growing popularity of the Internet has led in a dramatic increase in the number of prosecutions of such cases. Worse, typically there is a rush to judgment from the community, and severe sentences if convicted.
“Distribution,” as defined by law, includes more than simply sending child pornography to someone. Charges have sometimes been triggered when clients used peer-to-peer (P2P) applications, but often the client simply printed images privately, saved the pornography onto a flash or “thumb drive,” or moved the audio or visual files onto a hard drive. In such cases, it is understandable that many of our clients don’t initially realize they could be charged with allegations of distribution.
Whether your child pornography distribution charges are decided in a state or federal court, the consequences of a conviction would change your life forever. This is a sex offense that can carry harsh penalties under either state or federal law.
If your case involves interstate distribution, expect federal charges governed by federally mandated sentencing guidelines, and a potential maximum penalty. In the federal system, a Distribution of Child Pornography conviction may result in a sentence between five to twenty years per count in the indictment. Additionally, registration as a sex offender in the community is mandatory upon conviction.
Similarly, California law enforcement, prosecutors, and judges are unsympathetic to and sharp with defendants that are accused of child pornography charges in any form, particularly distribution. It is mandatory that distribution be charged as a felony. A conviction may result in a fine of up to $2500 per charge, up to 12 months in county jail, or to more than a year in state prison.
Worse, any other child pornography distribution charges under California law result in enhanced penalties, including between two to six years in state prison. Other penalty enhancements may be imposed for large quantities of pornography, prepubescent participants, or depicting penetration.
Defense Attorney for Child Pornography Distribution
The Elden Law Group specializes in the aggressive defense of child pornography cases, with dedicated attorneys that apply elaborate pre-trial motion work, forensic examination, and meticulous investigation to your case. Our attorneys have the experience, the knowledge, and the resources needed to make the difference in each clients’ case.
When you work with an attorney in Los Angeles from Elden Law Group, we will utilize every shred of evidence in the investigation and defense of your case. Contact us for a free consultation. Find out what can be done to ensure the best outcome of your child pornography distribution case.
If you have been accused of child pornography distribution near the Los Angeles, California area, contact an attorney for the defense representation you need at The Elden Law Group.