Child Pornography Lawyers in Los Angeles

Child Pornography Lawyers in Los Angeles

Being charged with a child pornography crime can completely turn your life upside down. These allegations carry extremely serious penalties in both state and federal courts. If convicted, you could face years or even decades behind bars, massive fines, and a lifetime of restrictions and stigma as a registered sex offender. That’s why it’s absolutely critical to have an experienced Los Angeles child pornography defense attorney on your side from the very start of your case.

In this article, we’ll provide an overview of child pornography laws in California and federally, typical penalties, and the most effective defense strategies. We’ll also highlight some of the top-rated Los Angeles child pornography lawyers who can defend you against these life-altering charges.

California Child Pornography Laws

In California, the possession, distribution, and production of child pornography is primarily prosecuted under Penal Code 311 PC. This law makes it a felony crime to knowingly distribute, transport, produce, develop, duplicate, print, exchange, or possess any obscene material depicting a minor under 18 engaging in or simulating sexual conduct. The potential penalties depend on the specific charges, but can include:

• Up to 1 year in county jail and/or a fine up to $2,000 for a misdemeanor possession conviction
• 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison and/or a fine up to $10,000 for a felony possession conviction
• 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison and/or a fine up to $100,000 for distribution/transportation convictions
• 3, 6, or 8 years in state prison for production/development convictions

In addition to jail or prison time, those convicted will also face mandatory sex offender registration under Penal Code 290 PC. This subjects them to a lifetime of restrictions on where they can live, work, and more. Failure to register can result in new criminal charges.

Federal Child Pornography Laws

Federal law also prohibits the production, distribution, receipt, and possession of child pornography under 18 U.S.C. §§ 2251-2252. Defendants face even harsher potential penalties in federal court, including:

• 5 to 20 years in federal prison for receipt or distribution
• 15 to 30 years in federal prison for production
• Up to 10 years in federal prison for possession

Those convicted will also face federal supervised release for at least 5 years up to life, along with sex offender registration. The most serious federal child pornography offenses carry mandatory minimum prison sentences, meaning judges cannot sentence defendants to less than the minimum even if they want to.

Defenses to Child Pornography Charges

Given the extreme consequences of a conviction, building an aggressive defense is critical. Here are some of the most common defenses Los Angeles child pornography lawyers may use:

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

You Didn’t “Knowingly” Possess It

All child pornography laws require prosecutors to prove you knowingly possessed the material. For example, if someone secretly plants child porn on your computer without your knowledge, you cannot be convicted. Your lawyer may argue the files were placed there by malware or computer viruses.

It’s Not You in the Images/Videos

If child porn was found on a computer or device you share with others, your attorney can argue there is reasonable doubt it belongs to someone else. This is especially true if multiple people have access or the device was not password protected.

The Material Does Not Meet the Legal Definition

Your lawyer can scrutinize the evidence to determine if it actually meets the legal definition of child pornography. For example, the children may be clothed or the material may not depict sexual conduct. Your lawyer may also argue the individuals are not minors or the evidence is digitally manipulated.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If police violated your 4th Amendment rights by searching your home or seizing your devices without a warrant or probable cause, your lawyer can file a suppression motion. If granted, all evidence obtained illegally must be excluded.

Entrapment

This defense applies if you were induced by law enforcement to obtain child porn. For example, if an undercover cop pretended to be a minor and convinced you to receive inappropriate images.

Finding the Best Los Angeles Child Pornography Lawyer for Your Case

If you are under investigation or have been arrested for any child pornography crime, it’s critical to consult with an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer immediately. Never attempt to handle these extremely complex cases alone.

When researching attorneys, be sure to choose someone who specializes in sex crimes and child pornography specifically. Look for lawyers with extensive trial experience and a proven track record of getting charges reduced or dismissed pre-trial.