Santa Ana Child Pornography Attorney

Child Pornography as a Federal Crime

There are many different types of child pornography sex crimes including the production, sale, distribution or possession of materials that involve the sexual exploitation of a child. In California, a child is a person under the age of 18. The exception to this is someone who is engaging in legal conduct between spouses, if either or both of the people involved are under 18 or if the person is an emancipated minor. The penalties and fines if you are convicted on child pornography charges are severe, with perhaps the worst being registration as a sex offender.

Child pornography charges can also be prosecuted by federal authorities. Depending upon the age of the child and any prior convictions, this can result in enhanced penalties. If you are convicted on federal charges, in addition to large fines, a permanent criminal record, community service, probation or parole, you may also be sentenced to decades in prison.

You will need a hard-hitting defense by a dedicated Santa Ana criminal defense lawyer if you are charged with a child pornography offense. Both the state and federal laws in this area are complex and your attorney needs to have a broad understanding of the criminal justice system in order to prevail in your case. Mr. Schaffer spent 18 years as a prosecutor for the Orange County District Attorney's Office, taking on the tough cases and the serious crimes. Our firm works to use this unique perspective to your advantage, to predict and favorably resolve the charges against you.

Proving the Case

We strive to make prosecutors prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. Sometimes, child pornography images can be downloaded onto a computer without your consent or knowledge. In these cases, the police may have violated your 4th amendment rights against illegal search and seizure. It also occurs that law enforcement can step over the line and engage in entrapment, trying to entice a person into committing an illegal act.

Merely being accused of child pornography can harm you greatly. Being charged does not, however, mean you must be found guilty. The commitment and experience of your attorney can go far in ensuring that justice is done in your case.

Contact a Santa Ana child pornography attorney to learn your legal options if you are charged with a child pornography offense.