What Should I Do When Facing Child Pornography Charges?
Child pornography charges are very serious and in New Jersey, penalties for this type of crime, if convicted, are harsh. Viewing any material depicting a child engaged in sexual acts, including photos or videos, is considered third-degree child pornography and can lead to prison time of up to five years and a fine of up to $15,000. Under New Jersey statutes, it is a crime to view illicit sexual images of anyone under the age of 18. Even if you did not realize that the people in the pictures were under 18, you are still responsible.
Many people do not realize that when browsing the internet, your IP address is visible at every site you visit. Your IP address is associated with your billing address and internet accounts, so if you stumble across a site that authorities are monitoring for unlawful images, they will have a record. If you are facing child pornography charges, the following tips will prove helpful.
Remain Silent in the Presence of Law Enforcement
The most important thing to know if you are charged with crimes related to child pornography is to exercise your right to remain silent. Do not speak to any law enforcement officers or investigators without legal counsel present. While you may feel it necessary to defend yourself, it is possible you will unknowingly make statements that will damage your case. It is crucial that you contact a criminal lawyer with experience defending sex crimes who will know how to handle your case. As with any criminal charge, a defendant is innocent until proven guilty and you have a right to fair treatment. A criminal lawyer may be able to get the charges dropped or mitigated.
Do Not Save Images
If you are the recipient of sexual photos or videos that depict anyone underage, including via text message, do not save them. Saving the image is treated as reproduction or manufacturing of child pornography and makes the crime more severe with accompanying penalties.
Consider Working with a Therapist
To achieve the best possible outcome and avoid jail time, it may be helpful to demonstrate through psychological evaluation that you are not a danger to the community. The most success can be achieved by being proactive. Once you are indicted and trial begins, your defense options are limited. Pornography is so prevalent in today’s internet culture that many people are unaware they crossed the line and viewed or possessed something illegal. Working with a therapist can help avoid severe consequences.
South Jersey Child Pornography Defense Lawyers at Aita Law, LLC Defend Those Charged with Child Pornography
If you were charged with child pornography crimes, you should speak with an experienced South Jersey child pornography defense lawyer at Aita Law, LLC immediately. Call us at 856-287-7800 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We will fight for your right to fair treatment and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Located in Haddonfield, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Cherry Hill and Camden County.