Legal Blog

Pennsylvania takes child pornography charges seriously. Both distributors and viewers of sexual material displaying minors face some of the harshest criminal penalties available and the state has little tolerance for sex offenders. The penalties don’t end there. The additional consequences of living with a child pornography conviction are also devastating.

Many people accused of possessing or distributing child porn are unfortunately misidentified or were unaware of what was on their computer. And despite obvious problems with their case, they often fear time in custody so much that they accept any offer to get the case over with. They don’t think what living with the conviction means in the long-term, but there was likely a lot a lawyer could have done to improve their case.

If you are accused or questioned about child porn in or around Philadelphia, do not try to explain things yourself or accept a deal without consulting an experienced sex crimes attorney. It could be the difference in avoiding charges, getting the case dismissed, and not living with a life-long child porn conviction.

Contact Fienman Defense online or at (215) 839-9529 to schedule a free and confidential consultation 24/7. Let us explain your rights, options, and how to best defend yourself.

Consequences of a Child Pornography Conviction

It is illegal to photograph, videotape, or download sexual acts involving minors. Even if the act is simulated, you will still be charged.

You will also be charged if you distribute, sell, transfer, or make child pornography available in any way.

Child Pornography Charges

Making, viewing, and distributing child pornography are felonies in PA.

• Third-degree felony for first-time possession of or distributing child pornography
• Second-degree felony for filming or photographing acts of child pornography
• Second-degree felony for subsequent offenses of distributing or possessing child pornography.

A minor is defined as a person under the age of 18. In Pennsylvania, if you view sexually explicit materials depicting a minor you will still be charged even if you were unaware they were a minor or told they were over 18.

State or Federal Charges

Child pornography offenses are often both state and federal offenses, especially when they involve downloading child porn from the internet or sending links to other people. This means you could face federal penalties on top of those assessed by the state.

Consequences of Being a Registered Sex Offender

In addition to felony or possible federal charges, there are other consequences to consider.

Those convicted of a first-time child porn offense must register as a sex offender for a minimum of 15 years. People with multiple or more serious convictions must need to register for 25 years or the rest of their lives.

Being a registered sex offender means having your picture and personal information, like your name and address online. This allows people to actively search out registered sex offenders who live in their neighborhoods.

As a sex offender you:

• Must live a certain distance from schools, parks, and other prohibited places.
• Could be banned from using the internet, which cut you off from social media and job opportunities.
• Might have a hard time getting or holding a decent job.
• May be a target within your community.

Call a Philadelphia Sex Crimes Attorney Today

It is not an exaggeration to say that the consequences of a child pornography conviction are life-shattering. Your reputation will never recover and your life will never be the same.

If you are charged with a child pornography crime, it is imperative that you contact an experienced Philadelphia defense attorney wit a history getting fair outcomes for their clients right away.

At Fienman Defense, LLC, we have had a lot of success protecting the rights of people accused w of various child porn offenses. We can help you understand your charges and explain how you can fight them.

Call (215) 839-9529 today.