Golden Valley Child Pornography Lawyer

Few types of criminal charges receive more scrutiny from both law enforcement and the public than those involving child pornography. The possession, distribution, or involvement in the creation of even a single image depicting a minor engaged in any kind of sexual conduct could lead to felony charges as well as mandatory sex offender registration.

Given the seriousness of this sort of allegation, it is crucial to obtain help from a capable defense attorney. To protect your rights and best interests as effectively as possible, you should seek representation from a Golden Valley child pornography lawyer who has experience successfully handling cases similar to yours.

Child Pornography Charges and Consequences

As per Minnesota Revised Statutes §§ 617.246 and 617.247, anyone who possesses, distributes, or produces a visual depiction of a person under 18 engaged engaging in any of the following has committed a felony offense:

• Sexual display
• Sexual contact
• Sexual intercourse
• Subjection to sadomasochistic abuse

Individuals already registered as sex offenders for offenses involving children under the age of 14 and who are subsequently convicted of a child pornography offense may face increased criminal penalties due to these aggravating circumstances.

The specific maximum penalties associated with various child pornography offenses in Golden Valley are as follows:

• Possession of child pornography: five years in prison and a $5,000 fine
• Possession of child pornography with aggravating conditions: ten years in prison and a $10,000 fine
• Distribution of child pornography: seven years in prison and a $10,000 fine
• Distribution of child pornography with aggravating conditions: 15 years in prison and a $20,000 fine
• Sale or production of child pornography: ten years in prison and a $20,000 fine
• Sale or production of child pornography with aggravating conditions: 15 years in prison and a $40,000 fine

Anyone convicted of any of these offenses will also be required to register as a sex offender with the state of Minnesota for at least 10 years. Given the severity of these penalties, it is crucial to work with a Golden Valley child pornography attorney to build a steadfast defense.

Possible Defenses Against Child Porn Allegations

Someone can only be convicted of unlawful child porn pornography when they knew—or reasonably should have known—they possessed illicit image(s) depicting a minor engaged in sexual conduct as opposed to an adult. A Golden Valley child pornography attorney could help contest charges of this nature by establishing the core elements of the offense, as defined by state law, were not present.

Legal counsel could also assist with contesting allegations of child porn distribution or production along somewhat similar lines. However, it is worth noting that a lack of knowledge as to the age of a minor participating in sexual conduct is not considered a valid defense against charges for the sale or production of child pornography.

Consider Working with a Golden Valley Child Pornography Attorney

Child pornography offenses carry life-altering criminal sanctions even for first-time offenders who have never been in any kind of legal trouble before. However, that does not mean you do not have the same right to defend yourself as any person accused of any other kind of crime or that you do not have hope of securing a favorable case result with a capable defense attorney’s assistance.

A private consultation with a Golden Valley child pornography lawyer could give you clarity and confidence about how best to fight back against your specific accusations. Call today to discuss your options.