Minors themselves are rarely subject to criminal prosecution for their own viewing of pornography, but in Virginia, it is a crime to provide them with sexually explicit material. The laws are designed to protect children from exploitation. Possession or distribution of child pornography is a crime that may be punished by federal or state law, regardless of the age of the possessor or distributor.
Fairfax Federal Child Pornography Lawyer
Contact Johnson/Citronberg | (855) 959-4003
Fairfax Federal Child Pornography Attorney
Being charged with a federal child pornography offense in Fairfax is one of the most severe and frightening experiences a person can face. The charges can carry a stigma that ruins lives even before the court case begins, tearing families apart and ending careers.
If you have been accused of federal child pornography, you need a skilled Fairfax federal child pornography lawyer right away to begin fighting for your future.
CALL US TODAY 855-959-4003
About Johnson/Citronberg
Johnson/Citronberg is a nationally acclaimed litigation firm based in Alexandria, Virginia, and Atlanta, Georgia. Our attorneys have made appearances in the Eastern District of Virginia on numerous occasions and are familiar with the pressures of its rapid docket.
Virginia Super Lawyers, Northern Virginia Magazine, and the Washington Post have named Johnson/Citronberg to their lists of those who have achieved the highest standards of excellence in criminal defense. Our attorneys have decades of combined experience defending those accused of serious federal crimes, including child pornography charges. We are discreet, aggressive, and compassionate.
Fairfax Federal Child Pornography Case Results
United States v. D.F.
Pilot Found Not Guilty in Major Federal Drug Conspiracy Case
Our client was a pilot and retired military officer. He was accused of knowingly transporting a large quantity of cocaine from southern Texas to Atlanta. If convicted, he likely would have died in prison. We were able to show a jury that our client had no knowledge of the drugs on board his aircraft. The jury returned a not guilty verdict in less than an hour of deliberating.
United States v. R.K.
Federal Judge in Eastern District of Virginia Gives Lowest Possible Sentence to Autistic Client
Our client, a federal employee, was convicted of federal child pornography charges. Based on his autism diagnosis, we convinced a federal judge to give the lowest sentence possible.
United States v. B.J.
Time-Served Sentence in Major Federal Drug Conspiracy Case in Atlanta
Our client was facing life in prison after being charged in a wide-sweeping drug conspiracy case in the Northern District of Georgia. We were able to show that our client was abused by her husband and forced to ingest drugs, which led her becoming addicted. The judge determined that her culpability was the least of the many who were charged and granted our request for a sentence of ‘time-served’ which means no additional jail time. Our client was able to go home to her children the same day that she was sentenced.
Virginia v. R.C.
Dismissal of Child Pornography Charges in Richmond, Virginia for Autistic Client
Our client, a working professional, was charged with distribution of child pornography after law enforcement raided his home. We helped our autistic client and convinced the court to defer all charges for dismissal due to his disability.
Testimonials from Our Clients
Maybel G.
Jess is known for his meticulous and strategic work style. At his firm, there is a culture of excellence and client focused dedication that is unmatched. He is very thorough during the entire legal process and always finds a way to solve client problems.
View Live Review
Lyle Cartwright
Jess Johnson is the perfect attorney to overcome serious legal charges! He is very approachable & will use his expertise to give you the best criminal legal defense possible and I know this from personal experience. When you’re going through the scariest period in your life, you need the best lawyer on your side. I give him my highest recommendation!
View Live Review
Understanding Federal Child Pornography Laws
Most federal child pornography cases in Fairfax are handled by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Alexandria Division). The courthouse has earned the nickname “Rocket Docket” since cases finish here faster than in most federal courts throughout the country. If you’re facing charges, it’s critical to understand the federal court process for child pornography cases so you can act quickly and strategically.
Because of this, it is imperative that anyone who is the subject of an investigation or who has recently been charged get experienced legal representation as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand relevant laws, such as:
- 18 U.S.C. § 2251. The sexual exploitation of children involves persuading or enticing minors to participate in sexually explicit actions for creating images or videos.
- 18 U.S.C. § 2252. This covers the receipt, possession, and distribution of child pornography. The defendant could face sentences of 5, 10, 15, or 20 years in prison, depending on the facts of the case, and repeat offenders are subject to enhanced penalties.
- 18 U.S.C. § 2252A. This statute forbids individuals who knowingly access child pornography with the intent to view it and those who transport child pornography between states.
In contrast to state cases, where probation and alternative sentencing may be options in some cases, federal statutes carry stiff mandatory minimums. Competent defense representation is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Sentencing Guidelines and Consequences
The U.S. Sentencing Guidelines set offense levels based on the number of images, use of a computer, and distribution, among other factors. Enhancements rapidly bring guideline ranges into double-digit years. Possession alone can result in 5–10 years in prison. Production sentences are typically 15 or more years. Production sentences are typically 15 or more years. For a deeper understanding of how courts calculate ranges and enhancements, review the federal child pornography sentencing guidelines.
In addition to criminal consequences, an offender may face additional collateral consequences as well, such as:
- Registration as a sex offender, which can dictate where you live
- Internet restrictions
- Employment roadblocks
- Losing your professional license
- Strained relationships
- Losing custody of your children
How Investigations Begin
Of those convicted of child pornography in fiscal year 2023, 47.3% were found guilty of trafficking, 43.9% of possessing, and 8.8% of acquiring child pornography. In many federal investigations that begin in Fairfax, the first step is out of the suspect’s hands. The investigation may start when an internet service provider (ISP) or cloud storage company reports an incident to the FBI or Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). If you’re unsure how a matter might have started, it helps to know how internet crimes are reported in Virginia.
Under federal law, major internet companies must report suspected child sexual exploitation material to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC). NCMEC, in turn, refers the reports to federal agencies.
Agents have the capability to operate under false identities within peer-to-peer networks and messaging applications, as well as online forums. When a suspect is identified, investigators apply for search warrants at the federal courthouse. Devices are seized and forensic analysts search them for illegal images or videos, or for internet activity that may be incriminating.
Hire a Federal Child Pornography Lawyer
An experienced Fairfax federal child pornography attorney can review the evidence against you, protect your rights, negotiate with prosecutors, and develop a strong defense strategy based on the unique circumstances of your case.
Prompt legal assistance can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case and the impact it may have on your life.
Contact Johnson/Citronberg Today
Being charged with a federal child pornography crime is a serious matter. Hire a federal child pornography lawyer at Johnson/Citronberg today.
We can help you in the upcoming legal process. Contact us today to get started.
Fairfax, VA Federal Child Pornography Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Meet Our Attorneys
Jess Johnson
Jess B. Johnson is a Partner & Founder at Johnson/Citronberg, PLLC with more than 15 years of experience in criminal defense and civil litigation. He represents clients in federal courts across the country and is licensed in Georgia, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Jess has handled complex investigations, trials, and appeals for elected officials, business leaders, whistleblowers, and individuals. He has secured dismissals, acquittals, favorable sentences, and major whistleblower awards. A University of Georgia graduate, Jess was selected as a “Rising Star” by Super Lawyers Magazine every year since 2012.
View Profile
Cary Jacob Citronberg
Cary Jacob Citronberg is the Partner and Founder of Johnson/Citronberg, PLLC in Alexandria, Virginia, where he focuses on federal and state criminal defense matters. Licensed in Virginia since 2011, he brings more than 14 years of courtroom experience along with a strong record of advocacy. Cary received his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center in 2010 after earning his B.A. from Northwestern University in 2006. His work has been repeatedly recognized by Super Lawyers, with selections as a Rising Star from 2016 through 2021 and to the Super Lawyers list from 2022 through 2025.
View Profile
