Few things are as devastating as being labeled a “sex offender.” One does not necessarily have to come into contact with another person in order to be convicted of a sexual offense. Viewing child pornography from a computer can lead to charges. A person who commits this offense may even find themselves facing the wrath of the U.S. Government in Federal Court. If it is alleged that you or a loved one have been in possession of, or intentionally viewed, child porn then it is important that you contact a lawyer as soon as possible. I am a Peoria criminal defense attorney who handles such matters for Illinois defendants. Contact my office today to schedule an initial consultation.
Criminal defense lawyer assisting Peoria defendants in child porn cases
There are multiple ways to be charged with a child pornography related offense. One may have produced the materials. One may have intentionally downloaded files onto a computer for later viewing or one may have intentionally viewed such materials on a third party website. Any case related to child porn will be charged as a felony and the defendant may also face federal criminal charges. Illinois state charges can range from a Class 1 felony to a Class X felony. Those convicted by the U.S. Government will be subjected to the federal sentencing guidelines.
Child pornography cases will be initiated when the prosecution either gains an Indictment from the Grand Jury or when a preliminary hearing is held. The defendant will then enter a plea of “guilty” or “not guilty.” If the accused, in a state case, invokes their speedy trial right then the case will be resolved within 120 days if they are in custody or 160 days if they are not. These types of cases often hinge on whether law enforcement violated the defendant’s rights when they acquired evidence – an example being that the accused’s computer was searched without a valid warrant or probable cause. If evidence can be excluded from Court due to law enforcement violations then the case may be dismissed. Should the matter go to trial then it is the prosecution’s burden to show that the defendant knew what they possessed. The criminal justice system can be very complex and one should retain an attorney for such charges.
As a Peoria criminal defense lawyer, I assist those who have been charged with a pornography related offense. I will use your initial consultation to determine what happened and to help you understand what to expect as the case moves forward. I will acquire arrest reports and other evidence which the prosecution introduced. I will file appropriate Motions with the Court requesting that evidence be excluded if it was collected in violation of the Fourth Amendment. Should trial be necessary then I will ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. I understand that you are facing a serious situation. As your attorney I will give it the attention it deserves.
In addition to Peoria, I service the cities of Bloomington, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington. I also serve the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford. I also handle federal cases in Urbana.
Experienced Peoria attorney handling cases involving pornography related crimes
If you are charged with a child pornography related crime then you need an experienced attorney. I am a former prosecutor with over twenty years of experience. I am familiar with the local court system and I strive to provide a high level of service. This includes promptly returning phone calls, quickly responding to emails, and providing clients with my cell phone number. I believe that everyone is entitled to respect and I bring this approach to every case I handle.