Are you facing child pornography charges? If so, you may be looking at several years of imprisonment, fines, and mandatory registry as a sex offender – among other penalties. Child pornography is one of the most serious sexual crimes, and as such, can result in life-long consequences.
The sex crime attorneys at Whittel & Melton are dedicated to representing individuals accused of sex crimes. Our goal is to obtain the best resolution for your case and act as your advocate so your side of the story can be heard.
What is Child Pornography?There are several different elements that may constitute a child pornography offense. These can range from viewing child pornography to engaging in videotaped sexual acts with a minor. Sentences can vary, depending on the severity of the offense, however, all child pornography offenses carry severe criminal penalties and life-long consequences, such as job loss, forced relocation, and a tarnished reputation in general.
If you were accused of any form of a pornographic offense involving a minor, speak to a Fort Lauderdale child pornography lawyer immediately.
What to Do First When Facing Pornography Charges in Fort LauderdaleThe first thing you want to do when facing child pornography charges in Fort Lauderdale is to contact an experienced child pornography defense lawyer. Your lawyer will discuss your individual situation with you and gather information to prepare your defense.
Questions to consider as you prepare for your meeting with the lawyer are:
Be honest and upfront with your attorney – your lawyer needs all facts in order to prepare for your case for the best possible outcome.
How We Build Your DefenseAn accusation of child pornography can lead to a conviction if certain elements are present in the case. There are three elements to a child pornography crime that, if present, may result in a third-degree felony conviction, including:
While child pornography is a serious criminal offense, there are times when the alleged offender may not have been aware of the child’s age. The child in question may have appeared to be older, may have claimed to be older, or in many instances regarding the viewing of child pornography online, the alleged offender may have inadvertently visited a website or opened a webpage that contained pornographic materials involving minors when it was not their intention to view such materials.
Penalties You Face with a Pornography ConvictionUnderstanding the types of charges and the penalties that apply are important for understanding your case and preparing your defense. Florida penalties can be difficult to calculate due to the many penalty structures in place and the way multiple criminal charges can occur in an incident. In addition, there are penalty structures in place that increase penalties for repeat offenders. Some possible consequences of a felony conviction in Florida include: jail time, prison, fines, registration as a convicted felon, and escalated penalties for subsequent offenses.
Third Degree FeloniesChild pornography comes with serious penalties in Florida. Florida law describes a number of child pornography scenarios and some of the penalties that may apply. Possessing, distributing, transmitting, or manufacturing child pornography are each third-degree felonies in Florida, which can result in up to 5 years in prison and $5,000 in fines.
Second Degree FeloniesA second-degree felony is another possible penalty class, with penalties of up to 15 years in prison and $100,000 in fines. This means even if you receive child pornography through no intention on your part, you can be charged with a felony.
Fort Lauderdale Child Pornography Lawyer Explains Sex Offender Registration PenaltyAnother penalty you face if you are convicted of child pornography in Florida is registration as a sexual offender. Not only is this information public record, but there are strict requirements on the frequency and types of registrations the sex offender must complete, which includes registration of your address when you move, if you have a name change, or even if you are staying in an area on a temporary basis. Failure to comply with registration is a felony.
While a requirement to register, the consequences of registering as a sexual offender can impact all parts of your life. As a registered sex offender, you may face restrictions on where you can live, places you can go and it may impact your employability. In addition, leaving the state does not remove your status as a sexual offender or remove you from the registry. Your status can follow you across state lines.
Why Choose Whittel & Melton Child Pornography LawyersWhen facing a charge as serious as child pornography, it is critical to seek the help of experienced criminal attorneys as soon as possible to prepare your case. At Whittel & Melton, our experienced trial attorneys have represented clients in criminal matters throughout Florida in both state and federal court. In addition, should you need to pursue a criminal appeal, Whittel & Melton’s legal team is equipped to handle your appeal. Bringing individual strategies to your case, Whittel & Melton can effectively represent you in your child pornography case.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Child Pornography Lawyer Today For a Free ConsultationChild pornography convictions may result in several years of imprisonment and mandatory registration as a sexual offender. If you or someone you know was accused of viewing, distributing, or coercing a minor to engage in sexual acts, consult with an experienced Fort Lauderdale child pornography lawyer immediately.
Our firm is available right now to take your case and help you surpass the charges you are facing. We have handled these cases and similar serious charges throughout the state, including criminal court in Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Ocala, Gainesville, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton and Ft Lauderdale. To schedule a FREE and confidential consultation, contact us online or by phone at 866-608-5529.