Child Pornography And Computer Crimes
Child pornography and other computer crimes can be charged under Massachusetts law or federal law. Both systems impose harsh penalties for child pornography. In Massachusetts, a conviction can result in anywhere from two-and-a-half years to 20 years in prison, depending on the charge. Under federal laws, a conviction could result in up to 30 years in prison, with little to no opportunity for early release.
The state and federal systems differ in important ways. Your attorney needs to understand these differences and build your defense accordingly.
At Carney, Gaudet & Carney, located in Boston, we have decades of experience defending clients against computer-related offenses in both state and federal court. We are known for our innovative defense strategies and our ability to get results. We can help you.
Protecting Your Fourth Amendment Rights
To charge you with child pornography, online solicitation of a minor and other computer crimes, prosecutors must have evidence. This requires digging into your personal computer files and monitoring your online behavior, which can often result in a violation of your Fourth Amendment rights.
When defending against a computer-related crime, we thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding your arrest. If police lacked probable cause to search your home and your computer files, we will fight to have evidence withheld and charges dismissed.
We also make sure you are viewed as a person — not a case. When you come to our office, one of the first things we will ask of you is to write down your life story. Why? Because we want to know you on a personal level – and we want the prosecutor, judge and jury to know you as a person too.
When We Ask Questions, We Believe Your Answers
As your lawyers, it’s our job to believe you – and make others believe you too. We never doubt your innocence. Instead, we fight to protect your innocence and ensure your constitutional rights are protected.
Are You Being Investigated For A Computer Crime?
If you are under investigation for child pornography or another computer-related crime, you need legal help now. Do not wait until formal charges have been filed. There are steps we can take to mitigate the consequences and shield you from liability.
For more information about our services, call 617-404-9683 or contact us online.
Case Result
Child Pornography
RESULT: Client placed on probation and relieved from having to register as a sex offender.
Our client, a small business owner, was charged with possession of child pornography. Client retained the firm and was represented by Attorney Daniel J. Gaudet. Attorney Gaudet referred our client to a renowned treatment center to address his use of illicit pornography. Attorney Gaudet also retained two experts specializing in the evaluation and treatment of sex offenders to meet with our client and prepare reports for the Court. After convincing the Court to place our client on probation rather than incarcerate him, Attorney Gaudet petitioned the Court to relieve him from the obligation to register as a sex offender. The Court agreed and our client was not required to register.