St. Louis Park Child Pornography Lawyer

A charge for child pornography could mean years behind bars, huge fines, and sex offender registration. However, a charge is not a conviction. There are defenses available that may apply to your case and help reduce or even dismiss the charges against you.

To get in contact with a St. Louis Park child pornography lawyer, reach out to our firm today. Our criminal defense attorneys know how to examine your case and build a customized defense to fit your unique needs.

Types of Child Porn Charges in St. Louis Park

Child pornography is broadly defined as depicting a minor engaged in sexual behavior. The depiction may be photos, videos, or many other forms of expression. Charges can stem from conduct such as:

Child Porn Possession

Minnesota Statutes § 617.247 sets forth the definition of child pornography charges. Even possessing this material is a criminal offense. The state prosecutor is not required to prove that the person watched it, just that they knowingly possessed it. These charges could carry up to a $5,000 fine and five years in prison.

Distribution of Child Porn

A person that distributes pornography sends it or transfers it to others in some way. This is a serious offense. A first-time conviction could bring up to seven years in prison and a potential fine of up to $10,000. If the person distributes the porn for profit, this increases to ten years in prison and a $20,000 fine.

Producing Child Porn

If a person makes or helps to create child pornography, it is a felony charge that could carry up to a $20,000 fine and ten years in prison. Prosecutors take this version of the charge especially serious and sometimes go over the top in pursuing them. A strong defense is necessary to fight back against these allegations. A diligent St. Louis Park attorney versed in the laws of child pornography could further explain the relevance of these distinctions in a particular case.

Collateral Consequences of a Child Porn Conviction

While years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines is enough to take these charges seriously, there are other serious penalties that may come with a child pornography conviction. These could include, but are not limited to:

• Loss of Constitutional Rights: Felony charges may result in the loss of the right to vote in elections, serve on a jury, and even to possess a gun.
• Forfeiture: The state will confiscate the pornographic material itself but can also take the property used to facilitate the offense. This could mean computers, electronics, and any money acquired from sales.
• Deportation: A non-citizen of the United States could face automatic deportation because of a conviction.
• Sexual Predator Registration: If a person is convicted of child porn offenses, they must register as a predatory offender for at least ten years. This puts their personal information online and adds many other requirements.

These additional penalties can greatly impact a person’s life. The penalties should not be taken lightly, and a capable St. Louis Park lawyer is prepared to dispute child pornography charges at every stage of the criminal proceedings.

Defend Yourself with a St. Louis Park Child Pornography Attorney

Disputing child pornography charges requires unique knowledge and comprehensive strategies. You need an attorney who knows the system and what it takes to challenge these grave accusations.

Let a dedicated St. Louis Park child pornography lawyer defend your constitutional rights. Contact us today.