If you’ve been accused of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, it’s imperative that you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. I understand how much stress these cases can cause and how they can ruin your life. I will evaluate the facts of your case in order to formulate the best defense possible.
Sexual Exploitation of a Minor is a felony charge, which involves serious, severe penalties. If you’ve been accused, you may be reluctant to speak with an attorney for fear of making yourself look guilty. However, the sooner you speak to an attorney, the better your chances are.
Here is what you need to know about the different levels of sexual exploitation of minors, what can happen if you are found guilty, and what you should do if you’ve been accused.
What Is Sexual Exploitation Of A Minor?
Sexual Exploitation of a Minor refers to child pornography offenses. This includes possession, creation, and distribution of material that shows children under 18 in a sexually explicit manner. According to Utah Criminal Code 76-5b-201, a person “commits sexual exploitation of a minor when they knowingly possess or intentionally view child sexual abuse material.”
This is a crime on both state and federal levels. Law enforcement officials track your online activity if they suspect that you are viewing child pornography and may raid your home and seize your electronics. You may then be accused of first-degree, second-degree, or third-degree exploitation.
First-Degree Exploitation
This offense involves filming, photographing, or otherwise involving children in the production of child pornography.
Second-Degree Exploitation
This offense involves distributing child pornography, including posting the images.
Third-Degree Exploitation
This offense involves possession of child pornography.
What Should You Do If You’ve Been Accused Of Sexual Exploitation Of A Minor?
If you’ve been accused of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, exercise your right to counsel and to remain silent, because anything that you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. In some cases, confessions or admissions may be coerced. Do not say anything without first consulting with a criminal defense attorney or without one present. The sooner that you obtain legal representation, the better.
Your attorney will thoroughly review your case in order to come up with a strategy for your defense. In order for them to do this, you need to give them all the information about the case. While some people who have been accused of a crime are reluctant to share information that they fear could negatively impact their case, your attorney needs to know everything that happened in order to help you to the best of their ability.
A criminal defense attorney can fight for that “not guilty” verdict, as well as facilitate plea bargains, settlements, reduced charges, and reduced sentencing. Your criminal defense attorney is there to ensure your right to a fair trial.
What Penalties Will You Face If You’re Found Guilty Of Sexual Exploitation Of A Minor?
If you’ve been accused of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, it’s crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner. Sexual crime charges can destroy your life and your reputation.
Here in Utah, some of the penalties convicted sex offenders face include:
- Having to register as a sex offender
- Jail/Prison time
- Fines
- Probation/Parole
- Housing limitations
- Job limitations
- Recreational limitations
- Community service
Being accused of a sexual crime in general is very serious, but it’s even more so when the crime involves a child. Utah takes crimes against children very seriously. If you have been accused of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, you’ll be facing very severe penalties. An experienced criminal defense attorney will fight for you to receive the best outcome.
Have You Been Accused Of Sexual Exploitation Of A Minor In Utah?
I, Zachary Holbrook, have extensive experience with the Utah court systems and sex crime law. I take pride in protecting the reputation of my clients and their families throughout the court. I use every strategy available in order to keep you safe and fight for the best possible outcome to your case.
If you have been accused of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, reach out to me today to schedule a case consultation. I will assist you in your fight for justice to the fullest extent of the law.
