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Child Pornography Put a Team of Criminal Defense Specialists in Your Corner

Child Pornography Lawyer in Bend, OR

When Everything Is on the Line, Choose the Right Defense

Facing a charge related to child pornography can be daunting. It's crucial to understand how the legal processes work, specifically in Bend, OR. At Ward Grover & Thomas, we provide compassionate, understanding, and strategic legal defense tailored to your unique situation. Our goal is to protect your rights while navigating this challenging time.

Charges relating to child pornography can have far-reaching consequences, affecting not just your personal freedom but your reputation, career, and relationships. Each case demands meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of Oregon laws and federal statutes.

Our approach is comprehensive, involving detailed examination of evidence, procedural correctness, and any potential rights violations during law enforcement activities. Understanding these nuances can be crucial in crafting an effective defense strategy that acknowledges potential penalties while vigorously guarding your interests.

A knowledgeable child pornography lawyer in Bend can help you navigate this complex legal situation. Call (541) 312-5150 today or contact us online to schedule your confidential legal consultation.

Understanding Child Pornography Charges in Oregon

In Oregon, offenses related to child pornography are primarily covered under the state's "Visual Recording of Sexual Conduct of Children" statutes, found in Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) Chapter 163. These laws criminalize the possession, viewing, production, and distribution of child pornography.

It's crucial to understand that even merely accessing or viewing such material online can lead to severe charges. A comprehensive child pornography lawyer in Bend will meticulously explain these complex legal definitions.

Here are the primary state offenses related to child pornography in Oregon:

Possession of Materials Depicting Sexually Explicit Conduct of a Child in the First Degree (ORS § 163.688)
Possession of Materials Depicting Sexually Explicit Conduct of a Child in the Second Degree (ORS § 163.689)
Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the First Degree (ORS § 163.684)
Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree (ORS § 163.685)
Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the Third Degree (ORS § 163.687)
Using a Child in a Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct (ORS § 163.670)

Federal Child Pornography Charges

It is critical to understand that child pornography offenses are also aggressively prosecuted at the federal level, often carrying even harsher penalties than state charges. Federal agencies like the FBI and HSI frequently collaborate with local law enforcement or conduct their own investigations, particularly in cases involving online activities, distribution across state lines, or larger networks. If you are contacted by federal agents, your first call should be to a Bend child pornography attorney with federal court experience.

Penalties for Child Pornography Convictions in Oregon

A conviction for child pornography in Oregon carries some of the most severe penalties in the state’s criminal justice system, and even more so in the federal system. The consequences are designed to deter such crimes and punish those found guilty harshly, extending far beyond incarceration and financial penalties to impact every aspect of an individual's life.

Felony child pornography offenses in Oregon are typically classified as Class A, B, or C felonies:

Class A Felony (e.g., Using a Child in a Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct):
- Up to 20 years in state prison.
- Fines up to $375,000.
- Many Class A felonies are "Measure 11" crimes, meaning they carry mandatory minimum prison sentences that cannot be reduced by a judge.
Class B Felony (e.g., Possession in the First Degree, Encouraging First Degree):
- Up to 10 years in state prison.
- Fines up to $250,000.
Class C Felony (e.g., Possession in the Second Degree, Encouraging Second Degree):
- Up to 5 years in state prison.
- Fines up to $125,000.
Class A Misdemeanor (e.g., Encouraging Third Degree):
- Up to one year in county jail.
- Fines up to $6,250.

Our Approach: Tailored Defense Strategies

At Ward Grover & Thomas, we pride ourselves on crafting personalized defense strategies. Our experienced team conducts thorough investigations, leverages expert resources, and ensures every aspect of your case is meticulously addressed. We believe in a collaborative approach, ensuring you are informed and engaged throughout the process.

A defense strategy with us often involves multiple layers: meticulous case analysis, strategic negotiations, and dedicated courtroom advocacy. We examine every piece of evidence for its validity, explore possible procedural missteps by law enforcement, and evaluate alternative interpretations of the evidence.

This multilayered approach is designed to provide the strongest possible defense, focusing on achieving a resolution that aligns with your needs and minimizes the impact on your life.

Comprehensive Analysis: We examine the evidence, scrutinize law enforcement procedures, and explore every possible defense angle.
Collaboration with Experts: Our access to skilled investigators and experts strengthens your defense, offering a robust counter-narrative to the prosecution's case.
Strategic Defense: Our attorneys are adept at negotiating with prosecutors, preparing compelling arguments, and zealously defending your rights in court.

What to Do If You Are Under Investigation

Even before charges are filed, early legal intervention can be crucial. If you suspect you are under investigation for a child pornography offense:

Do not talk to police without a lawyer present
Do not attempt to delete files (this can be viewed as destruction of evidence)
Retain a child pornography lawyer in Bend immediately

An attorney can intervene with law enforcement and prosecutors before charges escalate, possibly avoiding arrest or mitigating the scope of the case.

Take the First Step Toward Defense

If you or someone you care about is facing charges related to child pornography, the prompt engagement of skilled legal support is imperative. At Ward Grover & Thomas, we offer compassionate and strategic representation aimed at safeguarding your future.

Our initial consultations are designed to provide you with clarity regarding your situation and available legal options. We understand the intricacies of the law and the importance of detailed planning. Initiating a dialogue with us means taking a proactive step toward resolving your legal concerns, and knowing that you have a committed team ready to stand up for you when it matters most.

Contact us at (541) 312-5150 or reach out online for a confidential consultation, and let's discuss how we can assist you in navigating these challenging circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the potential penalties for child pornography charges in Oregon?

In Oregon, a conviction for child pornography can lead to severe consequences, including substantial fines, lengthy prison sentences, and mandatory sex offender registration. These penalties not only affect your freedom but also carry long-lasting social and professional repercussions.

At Ward Grover & Thomas, our defense team works diligently to assess every legal option, including plea negotiations and alternative sentencing strategies. We strive to minimize the impact on your life by advocating for rehabilitative outcomes such as treatment programs or community-based resolutions when available.

How does the court process work for these cases in Bend?

The court process in Bend typically begins with an investigation, which may involve local or federal law enforcement. Once charges are filed, the accused will be arraigned and the case proceeds through several stages, including pre-trial motions, discovery, and potentially a trial.

Each step presents critical opportunities for defense strategy. At Ward Grover & Thomas, we leverage our understanding of the local legal system to guide clients through these phases, challenge procedural flaws, and ensure that all evidence is rigorously examined for constitutional compliance.

How can an attorney help in these cases?

An experienced attorney can make a critical difference by providing legal counsel, representing your interests during investigations and in court, and crafting a strategy tailored to the specific facts of your case. Our team not only analyzes the legal issues but also collaborates with forensic and psychological professionals to ensure every possible defense angle is explored. At Ward Grover & Thomas, we also understand the emotional weight these charges carry and provide steady guidance throughout the process, keeping clients informed and supported.

Is it possible to avoid jail time?

Whether jail time can be avoided depends on several factors, including the specifics of the charge, your prior criminal record, and the strength of the evidence. Our attorneys work to identify potential paths to reduced charges or alternative sentencing, such as probation, community service, or diversion programs.

We also present mitigating circumstances, such as personal history, character references, and willingness to undergo treatment, to argue for leniency and outcomes that avoid incarceration where possible.

Are federal charges possible in child pornography cases?

Yes, child pornography cases can fall under federal jurisdiction, especially if the internet or interstate communication is involved. Federal convictions often carry harsher penalties than state-level charges, including longer mandatory minimum prison sentences.

If federal charges are filed, the stakes are significantly higher, and it's critical to have a defense attorney with experience in both state and federal courts. At Ward Grover & Thomas, we’re prepared to handle the complexities of dual-jurisdiction cases and engage with federal prosecutors as needed.

Can digital evidence be challenged in court?

Digital evidence is a major component in child pornography cases, but it is not beyond challenge. The legality of searches, the integrity of devices, and the proper handling of digital evidence are all issues that can be scrutinized in court.

Our team evaluates how the evidence was obtained and whether any constitutional violations occurred, such as an unlawful search or seizure. We also consult forensic experts to determine whether files could have been accessed or placed on devices without the defendant’s knowledge.

Will I have to register as a sex offender?

Sex offender registration is often a mandatory consequence of a child pornography conviction in Oregon. This registration can affect where you live, work, and how you interact with your community.

However, in some cases, there may be options to negotiate a plea that does not include registration, particularly in situations involving lesser offenses or unique mitigating circumstances. Our goal is always to explore legal strategies that reduce long-term damage, including avoiding or minimizing the duration and level of sex offender registration.

Can these charges be sealed or expunged later?

In Oregon, expungement for sex crimes involving minors is highly restricted and often unavailable if there’s a conviction. However, each case is different, and outcomes such as dismissed charges or certain negotiated pleas may preserve your eligibility for record sealing.

It’s critical to work with a lawyer who considers the long-term consequences of any plea or outcome and advises you accordingly. At Ward Grover & Thomas, we factor expungement and future record clearance into our defense planning from the start.

Our experienced child pornography lawyer in Bend offers discreet, nonjudgmental legal representation. Reach out now by calling (541) 312-5150 or online for your consultation—your future is too important to wait.

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Attorney Justice Kelley was amazing defending me in Court on October 24, 2024. He was well-prepared and well-versed in case law during our proceedings. He was able to have my case dismissed immediately. Being a new Attorney in Deschutes County, I had the honor of being his first case here. Congratulations Counselor.

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I contacted Erick Ward long before there were actual charges filed. This was the best decision I could have made. Having Ericks’ advice early on prevented us from making some naïve errors in our case. Later; Erick, Shelby, and Todd all worked together to deliver the best outcome to our case. This was a long, hard, process, but I never doubted that we had the best legal team working on our behalf.

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When you are initially arrested, it can be the scariest moment of your life. What's even worse is when you get released on bail and have an upcoming court case. I had no idea what to do. That is where Erick Ward came in. His calm demeanor and wealth of knowledge and resources have been invaluable. He was there for me every step of the way and I felt a calmness that everything would be okay when working with him. If you are facing legal troubles, I would recommend Mr. Ward to you without hesitation. He will be your biggest advocate and help you through one of the toughest moments of your life.

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Why Choose Ward Grover & Thomas?

Committed, Zealous & Compassionate Representation

Known in the Community as a Trusted Law Firm
We Provide Personal Attention to Every Client
We Handle Cases at Both State and Federal Levels
Our Team Consists of Criminal Defense Specialists
Our Firm Is Focused on Criminal Defense
We Have over 50 Years of Combined Experience

Recent Case Results

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Case Dismissed Assault and Harassment
Not Guilty Jury Verdict Assault II x2 (Measure 11); Assault III, Reckless Endangerment x3.
Not Guilty Jury Verdict Assault IV
Not Guilty Jury Verdict Att. Rape I, Sex Abuse I (Measure 11), Sex Abuse III, Assault IV x 2
Not Guilty Jury Verdict Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants and Reckless Driving
Full Jury Acquittal DUI DUI, Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangerment

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