A charge for the possession of child pornography is a grave matter that carries serious legal consequences. In Maryland, penalties for a conviction can include lengthy prison sentences as well as hefty fines. The state will also likely require convicted individuals to register as sex offenders, which has long-term implications on where the individual can live and work and how they interact with the community. The exact penalties can vary based on the specifics of the case, such as the quantity of illicit material and the presence of any prior convictions.
If you find yourself facing such charges, it is important to understand the steps you need to take to navigate the situation. Although the exact steps will vary depending on the details of the situation, four that apply in cases include the following.
Step 1: Seek legal counsel
Although anyone facing criminal charges is generally wise to seek legal counsel to help advocate for their interests, it is particularly important for these types of cases. This is due to the wide-reaching impact of the charges. Your freedom and reputation are on the line.
Step 2: Do not delete any information
The state can use many legal tools to gather evidence to build their case. While it might be tempting, do not delete any data from your electronic devices. The prosecution will likely argue that a move to delete data resulted in tampering with evidence, which can lead to additional charges.
Step 3: Avoid contact with minors
Until your case is resolved, it is generally advisable to avoid unsupervised contact with minors, as this can be viewed suspiciously and potentially violate bail conditions. Be sure to meticulously follow all bail conditions and court orders.
Step 4: Prepare for court
Work closely with your attorney to prepare for court:
- Discuss your case to help them build a robust defense.
- Gather and provide any evidence that may support your innocence or mitigate the charges.
Facing charges of possession of child pornography is a situation that requires serious attention and caution. With the right response, those facing these charges can build a defense that can either reduce or even result in the dismissal of the charges.
