Facing child pornography accusations in Redwood City, CA, is one of the most damaging, stressful experiences one can imagine. Even a rumor or a single police investigation can upend relationships at home and damage career prospects right away. Law enforcement and prosecutors handle sex crimes cases aggressively, and you need someone to help you fight back.
At Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, our attorneys have 30 years of combined experience. If you’re facing devastating charges related to child pornography, we have the experience and resources to help you.
Call (650) 299-0500 today to speak with our Redwood City child pornography attorneys for a consultation.
Why Choose Ahmed & Sukaram if I’m Arrested for Child Pornography in Redwood City, CA?
At Ahmed & Sukaram, we understand the immense gravity of such accusations and the devastating impact they can have on your life. Our firm is dedicated to providing a robust defense against these serious charges, prioritizing your rights and striving for the best possible outcome. We offer experienced legal counsel tailored to your unique situation.
Here are some reasons that people choose our Redwood City sex crimes attorneys:
- One of our lawyers is a Board Certified Specialist in criminal law.
- Our Redwood City criminal defense lawyers have a record of 50+ successful jury and bench trials through verdict.
- Members of our legal team have been recognized by Super Lawyers and The National Trial Lawyers Top 100.
More than 3,000 wins and three decades of legal experience attest to our pedigree. If you need help in Redwood City, California, our team is here to provide you with comprehensive legal support. Call today to schedule a case consultation with a Redwood City child pornography lawyer.
Overview of Child Pornography Charges in California
Child pornography crimes in California have serious legal consequences.
Distribution and Possession Crimes
California laws punish anyone who knowingly traffics in child pornography, including sending, producing, duplicating, or even possessing images or videos meant for distribution to others. Mere possession for personal use is also illegal if the content involves someone under 18, even when there’s no intent to share.
Creation and Exchange
Penal Code § 311.3 deals with offenses like developing, printing, exchanging, or otherwise duplicating content featuring minors engaged in sexual conduct.
Knowledge Standards
A prosecutor must usually prove that the person actually knew both that the content was illegal and that someone under 18 was present.
What Are the Penalties for Child Pornography in Redwood City, California?
Most child pornography offenses in California can be charged either as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the specific facts and the prosecutor’s approach.
Less serious cases may result in up to one year in county jail and fines.
When charged as a felony, the consequences are much steeper, often resulting in prison sentences of up to four years in cases related to distribution. Regardless of how the offense is charged, anyone convicted will be required to register as a sex offender.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Arrested for Child Pornography?
If you’re facing child pornography charges in California, it’s important to build the strongest defense strategy for these serious charges. Here are some possible defenses your Redwood City criminal defense attorney can raise.
The Material Does Not Meet the Legal Definition of Child Pornography
One defense is that the material you possessed simply wasn’t child pornography. This may involve questions about the subject’s age or the content’s nature.
Lack of Knowledge
Criminal charges typically require proof that you knowingly possessed, received, or distributed the prohibited material. If you accidentally downloaded content or opened a message online by mistake, your defense can argue you had no awareness or intent.
Unlawful Search or Seizure
If police did not have a valid warrant, overstepped the boundaries of a warrant, or searched your property without proper consent or legal basis, your attorney could move to have crucial evidence thrown out. Challenging the search and seizure process can substantially weaken the prosecution’s entire case.
Valid Legal Purpose
Medical, law enforcement, or academic professionals may sometimes encounter content that is otherwise prohibited. If your use of the material was strictly within a legitimate and recognized purpose, this can be a defense under California law.
Challenging every legal element and carefully reviewing police procedures are important aspects of these cases. A Redwood City sex crimes lawyer can help build the strongest defense possible based on the specific circumstances.
Choosing to defend yourself isn’t a good option in cases this serious — there’s simply too much at risk. Hiring a skilled attorney means you have someone to scrutinize the evidence and fight against exaggerated accusations at every turn. At Ahmed & Sukaram, our goal is to protect your future and demand the highest standard of proof before you face any penalties.
Reach out to our law office today for a consultation with a Redwood City child pornography lawyer.