Erie Child Pornography Lawyer

Erie Child Pornography Attorney

Facing charges of any kind in connection with child pornography can be enough to shatter your life as you know it. Such charges almost always come with irreversible damage, even if you are not convicted. The accusation alone can bring severe destruction to your life, and it is absolutely vital that you reach out to an Erie child pornography lawyer who can help you build a solid defense and try to beat these charges. Otherwise, you could face permanent damage to your reputation and future.

The legal team at The Levenson Law Firm understands the stigma that surrounds child pornography charges. It’s a serious charge that can instantly change the way people perceive you. This is something you don’t want to leave to chance. It is vital to hire an experienced child pornography defense lawyer to take control of your case and do whatever they can to advocate for you. If convicted, you will likely end up in prison, among other severe penalties.

Child Pornography Charges in Pennsylvania

According to Pennsylvania state law, child pornography is any visual depiction of minors under 18 years old engaged in any kind of sexual conduct. This material can include pictures, videos, and any other sexually explicit materials involving children. Child pornography is illegal in every state in the country.

Unfortunately, it is possible to end up wrongfully accused of crimes that involve child pornography, such as possession or distribution. If you have any enemies who may be attempting to incriminate you, causing a wrongful child pornography charge can be a significant way to destroy your life. Any sexual crimes that involve children are going to be emotionally charged, sensitive, and judged very quickly in the court of public opinion. Without a lawyer, you may not have a chance.

According to statistics assembled by the United States Sentencing Commission, child pornography charges accounted for 2.4% of all crimes that were sentenced in Pennsylvania in 2024. This was just a bit higher than the national sentencing rate for child pornography, which was 2.2%.

If you are accused of such a crime, it is wise to reach out to a seasoned child pornography lawyer as soon as you are aware you are being investigated so that you have a dedicated advocate in your corner from the beginning.

Potential Defenses Against Child Pornography Charges

The most important thing you will want to do for your case is develop a solid defense with your lawyer’s help. Without a strong defense, it will be extremely difficult to fight the prosecution and win your case. Understanding the seriousness of these charges and what’s at stake for you is essential. Never forget that you still have your constitutional rights and the opportunity to defend yourself. You are still innocent until proven guilty. Here are some possible defenses you may use:

• One defense that could be suitable for your circumstances is that the sexual material in question did not belong to you, and it never has. This is usually the most basic and common defense, but it can be a strong one if there is no tangible evidence that the material was ever actually in your possession. You never saw it. You didn’t download it. A computer forensic professional may be able to prove that it was downloaded by somebody else.
• Another defense that could be used is that the material you are being accused of owning is not actually child pornography. Certain images of children in suggestive situations have been approved by certain organizations, such as the Motion Picture Association (MPA), for educational and scientific purposes.

FAQs

Q: Is It Illegal for a Minor to Watch Porn in Pennsylvania?

A: Generally, it is not illegal for a minor to watch pornography in Pennsylvania, so long as the pornographic material features consenting adults of legal age. It is illegal for a minor to knowingly possess or view pornography that features other minors. If watching such material was accidental, they may not be subject to certain criminal charges. It depends on the details of the case.

Q: Is Pornography a Crime in Pennsylvania?

A: No, pornography is not a crime in Pennsylvania. However, certain types of pornography, such as revenge porn or child sexual abuse material (CSAM), is illegal and a crime. Revenge pornography involves uploading sexual images or videos of someone as revenge or in an attempt to cause them reputational and social harm. CSAM is any pornographic material involving underage children. These are both serious crimes in Pennsylvania.

Q: How Can a Lawyer Help Me With My Case?

A: There are many ways that a lawyer can help you with your case. You should understand that fighting child pornography charges will not be easy, and the entire process of defending yourself will be stressful and difficult. An experienced child pornography lawyer can focus on the legalities of your defense and work to discredit the investigation itself.

For example, if the police did not have probable cause to search your home, anything they found may not be admissible as evidence. The options you have can be thoroughly examined by a seasoned criminal defense attorney in Erie.

Q: What Should I Do if I’m Arrested on Child Pornography Charges?

A: If you are arrested on child pornography charges, it is important to comply with the arresting officers and try to remain calm. Utilize your right to remain silent and simply request that you speak with your lawyer. If law enforcement officials pressure you to answer questions, remain clear that you wish to wait for your attorney to speak on your behalf.

Reach Out to a Child Pornography Defense Lawyer Today

If you have been charged with child pornography in Erie, it is wise to contact a lawyer as soon as you can. The longer you go without legal representation, the worse your situation can become. The legal team at The Levenson Law Firm can help you craft a strong and valid defense and ensure that none of your rights have been violated. Reach out to us to speak with a valued team member who can schedule a meeting to discuss your circumstances confidentially.