Joliet Child Pornography Attorney

Lawyer Representing Clients Charged with Possession of Child Pornography

Criminal offenses related to child pornography are taken very seriously at all levels of the criminal justice system. Due to the harm these offenses can cause to children, law enforcement officials will investigate and prosecute people who are suspected of possessing or distributing materials involving child sexual abuse. Child pornography charges carry significant legal and social consequences, and they can impact the accused's life in profound ways.

In Will County and throughout Illinois, the legal system treats child pornography offenses with utmost seriousness, reflecting society's strong stance against the exploitation of minors. People who have been charged with these offenses will need to understand what steps they can take to defend themselves, and they can do so with the help of a qualified criminal defense attorney. At Carlson Law Group, P.C., we understand the serious nature of cases involving allegations of sex crimes, and we will work to protect our client's rights at all stages of a criminal case.

Reasons for Child Pornography Charges

There are several reasons a person may face child pornography charges. Under Illinois law, child pornography may include any visual depiction, including photographs, films, videos, or computer-generated images, that shows minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. This may include sexual intercourse, sexual contact, nudity, bondage or sadomasochism, or other depictions intended to stimulate sexual arousal. Specific child pornography offenses may include:

• Possession of child pornography A person who knowingly had pornographic materials depicting children in their possession may be charged with this offense. A case may involve materials stored on personal devices like computers, smartphones, or external storage devices, as well as physical photographs, videotapes, or films.
• Distribution of child pornography Sharing, selling, or otherwise distributing explicit material involving minors may occur through various channels, such as social media platforms, email, file-sharing services, or physical distribution. The act of sending or making such materials accessible to others is a more serious criminal offense than possession of child pornography.
• Creation of child pornography A person may be accused of producing explicit images or videos of minors, and this may be done through coercion, manipulation, or abuse. This charge often carries the heaviest penalties due to the direct involvement in the exploitation of children.

Penalties for Child Pornography Offenses

The penalties a person may face if they are convicted of child pornography crimes are likely to be severe. They may include:

• Possession of child pornography Possession of child pornography in the form of photos or non-moving images is a Class 3 felony. Possession of videos or other moving images is a Class 2 felony. Possession of any child pornography depicting a child under the age of 13 is a Class 2 felony. A Class 3 felony conviction can result in a prison sentence ranging from two to five years, while a Class 2 felony carries a potential sentence of three to seven years. Possession of child pornography can also result in a minimum fine of $1,000 and a maximum fine of $100,000.
• Distribution of child pornography Distributing, reproducing, transmitting, or otherwise disseminating child pornography to others is a Class 1 felony if a case involves non-moving pictures or a Class X felony in cases involving moving images. A Class 1 felony conviction can result in a prison sentence ranging from four to 15 years, while a Class X felony carries a potential sentence of six to 30 years. Distribution of child pornography can also result in a minimum fine of $1,000 and a maximum fine of $100,000.
• Creation of child pornography People who film or photograph children who are participating in sexual conduct, those who produce live performances of child pornography, people who solicit children to appear in child pornography, or parents or guardians who allow children to participate in the creation of child pornography will usually face Class 1 felony charges in cases involving photographs or Class X felony charges in cases involving videos. In addition to a prison sentence, a conviction on charges related to the production of child pornography may result in a minimum fine of $2,000 and a maximum fine of $100,000.

Contact Our Will County Child Pornography Defense Lawyer

If you are facing child pornography charges in Will County, it is crucial to seek experienced legal representation immediately. These charges carry severe penalties, and having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At Carlson Law Group, P.C., we are committed to providing the defense you need while helping you take steps to protect your reputation. Contact us at 815-710-3700 to arrange a free, confidential consultation.