Alexandria Child Pornography Lawyer

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Alexandria Child Pornography Attorney

Some of the most serious criminal offenses that an individual can be facing in Virginia are child pornography charges – which come with severe penalties that can change a defendant’s life forever. Whether you have been charged with the possession, production, solicitation, or sharing of such illegal files, it is crucial to work with an experienced Alexandria, VA child pornography lawyer who can help you mount a strong defense and fight back. Facing child pornography charges can be overwhelming, especially with strict child pornography sentencing guidelines that could result in severe penalties.

The skilled criminal defense team at Johnson/Citronberg has years of combined experience successfully representing individuals in Alexandria and surrounding areas. We understand the high stakes of child pornography cases, including severe fines, mandatory sex offender registration, and long-term incarceration.

By leveraging our deep knowledge of federal and Virginia State law, we can help you successfully navigate your criminal defense process. In many cases, forensic evidence plays a major role in child pornography cases, and challenging digital evidence can be crucial in your defense. Computer forensic experts can analyze the data on your devices to determine how files appeared and whether unauthorized access occurred.

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Virginia State Laws on Child Pornography

Virginia Code § 18.2-374.1:1 specifies the different offenses related to child pornography. A diligent attorney can help you successfully defend against the following charges:

  • Possession. Defendants who have any material that is considered to be child pornography knowingly on their devices can face a Class 6 felony, which can come with up to a five-year prison sentence. A second or further offense can be escalated to a Class 5 felony, potentially yielding even more serious penalties.
  • Reproduction or distribution. Anyone who gives away, sells, distributes, or electronically shares child pornography on purpose can face 5 to 20 years in prison. Subsequent offenses come with a mandatory minimum prison sentence of five years.
  • Facilitation and solicitation. Anyone who persuades or tries to convince another individual to share child pornography with them – especially to get entry into a network or group – faces penalties of 5 to 20 years in a state correctional facility.
  • Operating a website that has child pornography. Anyone who runs a website that is facilitating payments to gain access to child pornography could be facing a Class 4 felony. This child pornography charge is one of the most severe. Understanding the difference between state and federal charges is crucial, as penalties vary depending on how the case is prosecuted. State and federal child pornography charges have key distinctions that impact sentencing.

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Alexandria Child Pornography Case Results

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.
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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!
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Federal Child Pornography Laws

Individuals facing charges for child pornography on the federal level could be dealing with even stricter consequences. Federal sentencing guidelines can result in lengthy prison terms, particularly for repeat offenses or aggravated circumstances. Sentencing in federal child pornography cases can be harsh, Sentencing in federal child pornography cases can be harsh, which is why having skilled legal representation is important to navigating the legal process and protecting your future.

For example, under 18 U.S.C. § 2251, the production of child pornography can lead to a prison sentence ranging from 15 to 30 years. Furthermore, under 18 U.S.C. § 2252, anyone who receives, distributes, or possesses child pornography could be dealing with prison time ranging from 5 to 20 years.

18 U.S.C. § 2260 also imposes severe federal penalties for anyone convicted of producing child pornography that is contended for U.S. importation. When child pornography-related offenses involve international or interstate commerce, such as crimes carried out using the web, these crimes can be prosecuted on the federal level.


Defending Against Charges With an Alexandria, VA Child Pornography Lawyer

As child pornography allegations are extremely severe, it’s crucial to mount a strong defense that is proportional to the situation. A dedicated Alexandria, VA, child pornography lawyer from our firm is here to help develop a detail-oriented, innovative criminal defense solution that reflects your unique case details.

Defenses against child pornography charges can vary, from proving unauthorized access to highlighting flaws in the prosecution’s forensic analysis. Common defense strategies can help fight these charges effectively. From arguing malware and hacking to demonstrating a lack of knowledge, we are here to mitigate your charges and penalties.


Protect Your Future and Reputation With an Alexandria Child Pornography Lawyer

If you or a loved one are facing charges related to child pornography in Alexandria, Virginia, or surrounding areas, time is of the essence to find an experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney.

An attorney from Johnson/Citronberg understands how overwhelming it can be to face these severe charges and is here to help you mount a strong defense strategy to fight back. Contact us today so we can discuss your case.


Frequently Asked Questions

What Penalties Do You Receive for Possessing Child Pornography in VA?

Under Virginia Code § 18.2-374.1:1, possessing content that is considered to be child pornography is classified as a Class 6 felony. This can come with a penalty of up to five years in prison. A second or repeat offense is classified as a Class 5 felony, which yields even harsher penalties. It is vital to work with an experienced criminal defense lawyer who can inform you of your rights and options and who understands the specific penalties you are facing.

What Are the Penalties for Distributing or Producing Child Pornography in VA?

Can I Be Charged for Simply Viewing Child Pornography Online?

Can I Be Wrongfully Accused of Child Pornography?

What If the Person in the Image Was Over 18 but Looked Younger?

Meet Our Attorneys


                                        Jess Johnson

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.

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                                        Cary Jacob Citronberg

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.

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