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720 ILCS 5/11-20.1 – Child Pornography

 

  • Class 1 Felony
  • 4-15 years in prison
  • Register as a Sex Offender for Life
  • Fine up to $25,000
  • In many cases, charged as Class X Felony
  • 6-30 years in prison
  • Call for more details

Understanding Child Pornography Laws in Illinois

Child pornography is one of the most severe criminal offenses under Illinois law, involving the creation, possession, distribution, or solicitation of sexually explicit material featuring minors. The state of Illinois imposes harsh penalties on those convicted of child pornography, including long prison sentences, heavy fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. Being charged with a child pornography offense can have devastating consequences on your life, career, and reputation.

 

What Constitutes Child Pornography in Illinois?

Under Illinois law, child pornography is defined in the Illinois Compiled Statutes (ILCS) under 720 ILCS 5/11-20.1. The law criminalizes various actions related to the creation, possession, and distribution of material that depicts a minor engaged in sexual conduct. The key aspects of child pornography offenses include:

 

  • Possession of Child Pornography: Knowingly possessing or accessing images, videos, or any other material that visually depicts a minor engaged in sexual conduct.
  • Production of Child Pornography: Creating, filming, or producing any material that visually depicts a minor engaged in sexual conduct.
  • Distribution of Child Pornography: Sharing, distributing, or transmitting child pornography through any means, including electronic devices, the internet, or physical media.
  • Solicitation of Child Pornography: Soliciting, requesting, or encouraging another person to provide or create child pornography.

Examples of Child Pornography Offenses Under 720 ILCS 5/11-20.1

Here are specific examples of child pornography offenses as defined under Illinois law:

 

  1. Possession of Child Pornography
    • Statute: 720 ILCS 5/11-20.1(a)(6)
    • Description: Knowingly possessing any material that visually depicts a child under 18 years old engaged in sexual conduct.
  2. Production of Child Pornography
    • Statute: 720 ILCS 5/11-20.1(a)(1)
    • Description: Creating or producing material that depicts a minor engaged in sexual conduct, with the intent to distribute or use the material.
  3. Distribution of Child Pornography
    • Statute: 720 ILCS 5/11-20.1(a)(2)
    • Description: Distributing, sharing, or transmitting child pornography through electronic devices, the internet, or any other means.
  4. Solicitation of Child Pornography
    • Statute: 720 ILCS 5/11-20.1(a)(7)
    • Description: Soliciting or encouraging another individual to produce or provide child pornography.

Penalties for Child Pornography in Illinois

Child pornography is classified as a felony offense in Illinois, and the penalties are severe. The exact penalties depend on the nature of the offense, the number of images or videos involved, and any prior criminal history. Penalties can include:

 

  • Class X Felony (Production):
    • 6 to 30 years in prison
    • Fines of up to $100,000
    • Mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender
  • Class 1 Felony (Possession or Distribution):
    • 4 to 15 years in prison
    • Fines of up to $25,000
    • Mandatory registration as a sex offender
  • Class 2 Felony (Possession of Fewer Images):
    • 3 to 7 years in prison
    • Fines of up to $25,000
    • Mandatory registration as a sex offender

In addition to these legal penalties, a conviction for child pornography will have far-reaching consequences, including a permanent criminal record, mandatory sex offender registration, and restrictions on where you can live and work.

 

Defending Against Child Pornography Charges

If you are facing child pornography charges in Illinois, it is critical to seek experienced legal representation immediately. These charges carry severe consequences, and the defense strategy must be meticulously crafted to address the specifics of your case. As an experienced criminal defense attorney, I can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome.

Contact me today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

 

Why Choosing Andrew M. Weisberg is Critical for Your Child Pornography Defense

Child pornography charges are among the most serious and stigmatizing offenses you can face. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, mandatory registration as a sex offender, and permanent damage to your reputation and future opportunities. The complexities and sensitivities of these cases require an experienced defense attorney who understands the gravity of the situation and can navigate the legal challenges effectively.

 

Here’s why Andrew M. Weisberg is the attorney you need for your child pornography defense:

  • Expertise in Defending Serious Sexual Offenses: Andrew M. Weisberg has extensive experience defending clients against serious sexual offense charges, including child pornography. His background as a former Cook County prosecutor equips him with a deep understanding of how these cases are prosecuted, allowing him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and counter them effectively.
  • Meticulous and Strategic Defense: Child pornography cases often involve complex digital evidence and intricate legal issues. Mr. Weisberg meticulously analyzes every aspect of the case, from the legality of the search and seizure to the chain of custody of the evidence. His strategic approach is designed to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and build a robust defense tailored to your unique circumstances.
  • Aggressive Courtroom Representation: Mr. Weisberg is known for his aggressive and determined representation in the courtroom. He challenges the prosecution’s evidence, cross-examines witnesses, and works tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for his clients, whether through dismissal of charges, reduction of penalties, or a successful defense at trial.
  • Discreet and Compassionate Client Support: Facing child pornography charges is an incredibly difficult and isolating experience. Mr. Weisberg provides not only expert legal representation but also compassionate and discreet support throughout the legal process. He ensures that your case is handled with the utmost confidentiality and that you are kept informed and supported every step of the way.

When you are facing child pornography charges, the stakes are incredibly high, and the quality of your defense can make all the difference. Andrew M. Weisberg’s deep expertise, strategic defense planning, and unwavering commitment to his clients make him the right choice to defend your rights, your reputation, and your future.

 

Contact Andrew M. Weisberg today for a free consultation to discuss your child pornography case and learn how he can help protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.