If you are facing child pornography accusations in Ohio, it is understandable to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your future. The charges you are up against are severe, and the consequences can be life-altering. Whether you are facing charges for possession, distribution, or production of child pornography, you may be wondering what steps to take next. We know how stressful and confusing this situation can be, and it’s important to understand that you are not alone. Our firm is here to offer guidance and support as you navigate through the legal challenges ahead. We empathize with your situation and are ready to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Dan Sabol
Dan is the first attorney in Ohio to be both board certified in criminal trial law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and be designated as a Lawyer Scientist by the American Chemical Society.
Chase Mallory
Chase Mallory is a firm founder whom has tried over 40 cases and conducted more than 100 suppression hearings. He is a founding member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association
Meet the lawyers who make up the legal team at Sabol Mallory LLC. Read their individual bios and get to know more about their education, experience and accolades.
Learn more about our teamUnderstanding the Seriousness of Child Pornography Charges
Child pornography accusations are extremely serious in Ohio. These charges carry harsh penalties that can include years of imprisonment, large fines, and permanent damage to your reputation. Under Ohio law, possessing or distributing child pornography is a criminal offense that is treated with the utmost severity. Even a first-time offense can lead to long-term consequences that affect your personal and professional life.
If you have been accused of this crime, it’s important to understand the legal process and the options available to you. Depending on the specifics of your case, there are several defense strategies that may help reduce or eliminate the charges you face. The first step in defending against these accusations is to consult with an attorney who has experience in handling similar cases.
The Importance of Legal Representation
Being accused of child pornography can be a terrifying experience. The stakes are incredibly high, and it is easy to feel like there is no way out. However, the truth is that everyone has the right to a fair defense, and there are several strategies that can be used to defend against such charges. Having the right attorney by your side is crucial for ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
A skilled attorney will be able to review the details of your case, help you understand your options, and fight aggressively to have the charges against you reduced or dropped. Even if the evidence against you seems overwhelming, a strong defense can make all the difference. Your attorney will carefully examine the circumstances of the accusation, including how the evidence was gathered and whether any violations of your rights occurred during the investigation.
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Testimonials
Learn what our clients have to say about the work of Sabol Mallory. If you have any questions or need legal help for a criminal charge, please reach out to us right away.
Chase Mallory is incredible. He is wonderful to work with and knows exactly what to do to help his clients. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you've done for me. I highly recommend hiring Chase to help fight your battles. Bless you!
- Erin R.
Dan Sabol is probably the best attorney I've ever worked with. Very professional and worked hard to get the best results possible. He will be the first person I call if I need a lawyer again. If you find yourself in a sticky situation make sure you give him a ring.
- Christopher R.
I had the pleasure of working with Dan and Chase and I am very grateful!! They did amazing work to help me on my case. They are very helpful and get back with you in a timely manner whenever I had questions for them, which was very nice and reassuring.
- Jessica H.
Challenging the Evidence
One of the most common strategies used in defending against child pornography charges is challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution. In many cases, the evidence against the accused is not as clear-cut as it may initially appear. For instance, there may have been issues with the way evidence was collected, handled, or preserved. If the prosecution’s evidence was obtained illegally or in violation of your constitutional rights, it may be possible to have it suppressed in court.
Additionally, there may be questions about the authenticity of the images or videos in question. For example, the prosecution may have difficulty proving that the material in question actually depicts a child, or they may struggle to prove that the accused was responsible for producing or distributing the content. By attacking the credibility and reliability of the evidence, your attorney can weaken the prosecution’s case and increase the chances of a favorable outcome.
Proving Lack of Knowledge or Intent
In many child pornography cases, the prosecution must prove that the defendant had knowledge of the illegal material and the intent to possess, distribute, or create it. If your attorney can show that you did not knowingly possess or distribute child pornography, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
For example, in some cases, a person may have accidentally downloaded or received illegal material without understanding what it was. If you were unaware of the content or did not intend to possess or distribute it, this may serve as a viable defense. Similarly, if your computer or other devices were compromised or hacked by someone else, this could also explain the presence of illegal content without your knowledge or consent.
Mistaken Identity or False Accusations
In some situations, individuals are falsely accused of child pornography offenses due to mistaken identity or malicious intent. False accusations can arise from a variety of circumstances, such as a misunderstanding or a dispute with someone who has an axe to grind. Additionally, technological issues such as hacking or viruses can result in incriminating material being placed on a device without the owner’s knowledge.
If there is reason to believe that you have been wrongly accused, your attorney may be able to uncover evidence that proves your innocence. This could involve reviewing digital logs, interviewing witnesses, or obtaining expert analysis of your devices to show that you were not involved in the distribution or possession of child pornography.
Negotiating for Reduced Sentences or Alternative Sentencing
While defending against child pornography charges, it may also be possible to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecution. In some cases, the prosecution may be willing to offer a reduced sentence in exchange for a guilty plea, especially if there is a lack of evidence or certain mitigating factors are present. However, it is important to approach these negotiations with caution. Accepting a plea deal can have serious consequences, including a permanent criminal record, which can affect your future employment, housing, and relationships.
Your attorney will help you evaluate whether a plea deal is in your best interest or if it’s worth fighting the charges in court. If a plea deal is not an option, your attorney can advocate for alternative sentencing, such as probation or rehabilitation programs, instead of prison time.
The Need for Immediate Action
When facing child pornography accusations, it is crucial to take swift action. The sooner you contact a qualified attorney, the better your chances of achieving a positive outcome. A skilled lawyer can begin working on your case immediately, gathering evidence, investigating the circumstances surrounding the accusations, and formulating a defense strategy.
Remember, the legal system can be complicated and intimidating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. You have the right to a fair trial and the right to a competent defense. If you are facing child pornography charges in Ohio, we are here to help you every step of the way.
At Sabol & Mallory Law Firm, we understand the gravity of your situation, and we are committed to fighting for your rights. Our team will work tirelessly to protect your interests and pursue the best possible outcome for your case. If you need legal assistance in defending against child pornography accusations, do not hesitate to reach out. Contact us today for a consultation and begin the journey toward resolving your case with confidence.