In Maryland, production, possession, and distribution of child pornography are criminal offenses. If convicted, you could face years in prison and a mandatory registration as a sex offender. To avoid unfair penalties, consider working with an experienced Owings Mills child pornography lawyer.
A skilled criminal defense attorney could investigate your case, collect important evidence, and build a strong defense strategy. Having qualified legal counsel is key to avoiding the most serious consequences of child pornography charges.
Child pornography charges can vary depending on the crime a person is suspected of committing. The main types of charges include the following.
This charge refers to situations in which an individual encourages or knowingly allows a child to take part in making obscene materials.
Another charge involves taking photos or videos of a child engaged in any sexual activity or abusive sexual behavior.
Using a digital device to create or demonstrate visual content or descriptions of minors involved in sexual behavior constitutes child pornography.
Knowingly advertising or trying to distribute any material that shows (or even appears to show) a child in a sexual or abusive act is considered child pornography.
This child pornography charge refers to using technology to share a minor’s personal details with the intent to arrange or encourage sexual abuse.
Even if an individual possesses child pornography that they did not create or plan to distribute, they are still committing a crime. A skilled Owings Mills child pornography attorney could explain which charges apply to your situation and what could be done to prevent a conviction.
Penalties in child pornography cases depend on the type of crime and the defendant’s criminal record.
Simple possession of child pornography in Owings Mills is a misdemeanor. A first-time offender may face up to five years in prison and a fine of $2,500. However, subsequent offenses are felonies and carry more serious penalties.
If a person is convicted of producing and distributing pornographic materials involving a minor for the first time, they can face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. Each subsequent offense increases the potential penalty to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.
Regardless of the initial charge, an experienced child pornography attorney in Owings Mills could craft an effective defense strategy. Some common approaches include insufficient evidence, lack of intent to distribute, and accidental downloads. In some cases, it may be possible to reduce charges from a felony to a misdemeanor.
If you are facing child pornography charges, you need to protect your rights. Maximum penalties for possession, production, and distribution can include up to 20 years in prison. Working with a competent Owings Mills child pornography lawyer is key to avoiding an unfair punishment.
At Nguyen Roche Sutton, we have a team of dedicated criminal defense attorneys with decades of experience. Call us to schedule an in-depth case review today.
