Child Pornography Charges

Columbia, SC Sex Crimes Attorney

It is strictly illegal to possess any imagery, either physical copies or digital files, that depicts a minor in a sexual way, or a way that is meant to bring sexual gratification. If you have been accused of possessing child pornography in South Carolina, you must take the initiative and seek out trusted legal counsel immediately. Since 1998, Masella Law Firm, P.A. and our Columbia lawyers have been protecting the rights of the accused in all manners of criminal law cases, including child sex crimes.

What Are the Penalties if Convicted?

There is no denying that society views anyone who has been convicted of possessing, distributing, or creating child pornography in a negative, biased light. Even before evidence is solidified by the prosecution and the trial begins, people can have it set in their minds that the accused is guilty. This makes it an uphill battle for them to present their case and claims to a judge and jury that is actually willing to listen to them. The only solution to rebalance the scales and obtain a fair chance in court is to work with an experienced attorney like the ones you can find at Masella Law Firm.

Perhaps worst of all, sex crime convicts must register as sex offenders on statewide and national registries. Most people on these lists must provide their current address, occupation, and a picture of themselves, or else face further criminal charges. Career and educational opportunities can disappear before them as the public learns of their criminal record.

Are There Defenses to Child Pornography Accusations?

The prosecution and even the public may be quick to label the act of possessing child pornography as a sex crime with no defense but you must realize that there are options to minimize your sentencing or have your charges dismissed altogether. It all comes down to your willingness to work with a Columbia sex crime lawyer who can analyze your case from multiple angles and approach it with a unique point of view. We believe these are some of the many traits that set our team at Masella Law Firm apart from other criminal defenders in South Carolina.

Defensive strategies we may be able to use in your case include:

• Unknowing possession: You should not be convicted of possessing something you did not know you had. Hidden files depicting just about anything can be attached secretly to legitimate downloads. Can the prosecution prove you knew the illicit images were on your computer?
• Deceptive age: In some child pornography materials, the age of the people depicted may be stated to be above the legal age of consent while they are minors in actuality. This deception should not be ground to punish someone who is found to be in possession of such materials.
• Unlawful search: The police must act with a warrant or else any evidence they find is rendered inadmissible in court. Were you arrested after an unwarranted search and seizure of your property? If so, the prosecution's argument may have a serious flaw.

Get Professional Legal Advocacy – Call (803) 938-4952

The ramifications of a child pornography conviction are sure to be severe if you do nothing to reduce or prevent them. The sooner you stand up for your right to defend yourself, the sooner you can start to feel hopeful about the outcome of your case.