Needham Child Pornography Lawyer

Possession of child pornography is one of the most serious criminal charges in Massachusetts, carrying severe penalties, including prison time, mandatory sex offender registration, and lifelong consequences. If you or a loved one is under investigation or facing charges in Needham, you need an experienced and aggressive defense attorney immediately.

At the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we understand that these cases are highly sensitive, and the mere accusation can destroy reputations, careers, and families. Our legal team has successfully defended clients against possession, distribution, and other internet-related offenses, ensuring their constitutional rights are protected.

Understanding Possession of Child Pornography Laws in Massachusetts

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 272, Section 29C

In Massachusetts, Possession of Child Pornography is prosecuted under M.G.L. c. 272, § 29C, which makes it illegal to:

• Knowingly possess any visual material (images, videos, or digital files) that depict a child engaged in sexual conduct.
• Receive, store, or access Child Pornography, including through electronic devices, cloud storage, and hard drives.

Penalties for Possession of Child Pornography in Massachusetts

Possession of Child Pornography is a felony offense with severe consequences, including:

First Offense:

• State Prison: Up to 5 years or up to 2.5 years in a county jail.
• Fines: Up to $10,000.
• Mandatory Sex Offender Registration: Level 1, 2, or 3.

Second & Subsequent Offenses:

• Mandatory minimum sentences (meaning no parole before serving a portion of the sentence).
• Significantly harsher penalties and longer prison terms.

Additionally, those convicted face forfeiture of electronic devices, restrictions on internet usage, and strict probation conditions.

Statute of Limitations for Child Pornography Charges in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for possession of Child Pornography is 6 years under M.G.L. c. 277, § 63. This means that prosecutors must file charges within 6 years of the alleged offense.

However, law enforcement agencies often conduct lengthy investigations, and charges can arise years after initial allegations. Early intervention from a skilled criminal defense attorney is critical to preventing charges from being filed or securing the best possible outcome.

Defenses Against Child Pornography Charges in Massachusetts

An experienced Needham criminal defense attorney can employ several defense strategies, including:

1. Unlawful Search & Seizure (Fourth Amendment Violations)
   Illegal warrants or warrantless searches of computers, phones, or cloud accounts may lead to evidence suppression.
2. Lack of Knowledge or Intent
   If you were unaware of illegal content stored on a shared device, cloud account, or received files unknowingly, this can form a strong defense.
3. Hacking or Unauthorized Access
   Cyberattacks and unauthorized access to personal devices can result in false accusations.
4. Forensic Flaws & Data Misinterpretation
   Metadata, IP address mismatches, and misidentified files can cast doubt on the prosecution's claims.
5. Chain of Custody Issues
   Errors in handling, storing, or analyzing electronic evidence can result in case dismissal.

The Legal Process for Child Pornography Cases in Needham

Step 1: Investigation & Search Warrants

Federal and state authorities, including the Massachusetts State Police and the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, aggressively investigate Child Pornography allegations.

If you receive a search warrant for electronic devices, contact an attorney immediately – do not speak to law enforcement without legal counsel.

Step 2: Arrest & Arraignment

After an arrest, you will be formally charged and arraigned at the Dedham District Court (which serves Needham).

Bail conditions may include surrendering devices, travel restrictions, and internet monitoring.

Step 3: Pre-Trial Proceedings & Evidence Review

Defense attorneys will examine all digital forensic evidence, challenge the prosecution's case, and file motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence.

Step 4: Trial or Case Resolution

If the case goes to trial, the burden is on the prosecution to prove knowledge, possession, and intent.

Our goal is case dismissal, reduction of charges, or securing alternatives to prison.

Collateral Consequences of a Child Pornography Conviction

1. Mandatory Sex Offender Registration
   Convicted individuals must register as a sex offender, affecting where they can live, work, and travel.
2. Permanent Criminal Record
   Child Pornography charges cannot be sealed or expunged in Massachusetts, leading to lifetime consequences.
3. Damage to Reputation, Employment & Family Life
   Loss of professional licenses, employment bans, and social stigma are common consequences.
   Family court implications, including loss of custody or visitation rights.

Needham Court System & Local Law Enforcement

Where Your Case Will Be Heard

📍 Dedham District Court
631 High Street, Dedham, MA 02026
📞 (781) 329-4777

Local Law Enforcement Investigating Child Pornography Cases

📍 Needham Police Department
99 School St, Needham, MA 02492
📞 (781) 455-7570

Why Choose the Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?

1. Aggressive Defense Against Digital Crime Charges
   We fight to suppress illegally obtained evidence and challenge digital forensic claims.
2. Experienced in Complex Computer & Internet Cases
   We work with top forensic experts to analyze devices and dispute allegations.
3. Compassionate, Non-Judgmental Representation
   We understand the devastating impact of Child Pornography charges and fight aggressively to protect our clients.

What to Do If You Are Under Investigation in Needham

• Do NOT speak to law enforcement without an attorney present.
• Do NOT attempt to delete any files – this may be seen as obstruction.
• Call (857) 229-2442 immediately to protect your rights.