Child Pornography Charges Carry Serious, Lifelong Consequences
When you are accused of any sex offense involving a minor, the consequences you are facing could be disastrous. Not only could you receive up to 20 years in state or federal prison if you are convicted, but you could also face harsh judgment from friends, family, colleagues and others in your community when they hear about the accusations.
From the moment you are accused of these crimes, call the Law Offices of Charles L. Waechter. You have a right to defend your future and your freedom against the prosecution, and I will fight tirelessly to minimize or eliminate the charges against you.
Child Pornography And Sex Crime Defense
Over the past 40 years, I have represented a variety of people in Maryland who were accused of crimes such as:
- Possessing sexually explicit photos of children
- Distributing child pornography to others
- Federal child pornography charges
- Soliciting sex from a minor in person or online
- Child molestation or other child abuse
Did police unlawfully seize your property as evidence? It may be possible to get that evidence dismissed so it will not be used against you. Are you open to seeking treatment or counseling? If there is strong evidence against you, you could advocate for a more lenient plea deal by showing you are taking proactive steps to change your behavior. No matter the case, I thoroughly investigate every detail to determine the most effective defense strategy for you.
What Is Child Pornography? How Is It Defined In Maryland?
In Maryland, child pornography is defined as any visual depiction – such as photographs, videos or digital images – showing a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. A minor, according to state law, is anyone under the age of 18.
Maryland takes a strict stance on offenses involving the exploitation of children, and even the mere possession of explicit materials involving minors is considered a crime. It’s important to note that the charges are not limited to those who produce or distribute the material; individuals who view or download such content, whether knowingly or unknowingly, can also face serious charges.
Given the severity of these accusations, having an experienced attorney who understands Maryland’s specific laws and definitions is critical.
What Are The Penalties For Producing Or Possessing Child Pornography?
The penalties for child pornography offenses in Maryland are severe and vary based on the specific nature of the crime. Possessing child pornography can result in up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
Those convicted of producing or distributing child pornography face even harsher penalties, including up to 20 years in state or federal prison and similarly large fines. Federal charges, which can be applied in many child pornography cases, often come with even stiffer penalties.
Along with imprisonment and financial consequences, individuals convicted of child pornography charges face lifelong repercussions, including damage to their personal and professional reputation, strained relationships with family and friends, and permanent social stigma.
Will I Be Classified As A Sex Offender If Convicted Of Child Pornography Charges?
Yes, a conviction for child pornography in Maryland will result in mandatory sex offender registration. The requirements for sex offender registration include providing your personal information to local authorities, regularly updating this information and facing strict restrictions on where you can live, work and interact with others. In many cases, your name and information will be available in public sex offender databases, making it accessible to neighbors, employers and others in your community.
This public status can lead to a lifetime of social and professional limitations and can make everyday activities like finding employment or housing challenging. Combatting the possibility of sex offender registration is a key component of defending against child pornography charges, thus the importance of seeking immediate legal representation to protect your future.
Have Your Side Of The Story Heard During A Free Consultation
One child pornography allegation can often spiral out of control. You may find many people automatically assume that you are guilty due to the severity of the accusations. You must always take child pornography or child sex crime charges seriously and consult a proven and experienced attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
At the Law Offices of Charles L. Waechter, I offer free consultations so I can hear your story and walk you through the next steps of your case. Call 410-242-4745 or fill out an online contact form to get started.
