Child Pornography Attorney in Torrance

Understanding Child Pornography Laws in California

In the State of California, it is a crime to take part in child pornography acts. This includes producing and distributing, exploiting, hiring or recruiting minors, advertising, and even possessing pornographic content with or of a minor.

These laws are found in specific sections of the California Penal Code that criminalize any intentional use of a minor in sexually explicit material, even if there was no physical contact between the adult and the child. Prosecutors may also file related charges, such as using a computer to commit a crime, depending on how images or videos were obtained or shared. 

As a Criminal Law Specialist and an experienced child pornography attorney in Torrance, J. Patrick Carey provides the elite, high-stakes defense necessary to protect your freedom. Our firm is available 24/7 to intervene early and ensure that your side of the story is heard.

Protect your reputation and your liberty. Secure a child pornography attorney in Torrance who has the technical expertise to challenge the state's forensic case. Call (310) 695-1118 or reach out online now to discuss your legal options.

Understanding Child Pornography Laws in California

California prosecutes these offenses under a series of strict statutes found in the Penal Code. Navigating these laws requires a Torrance child pornography lawyer who understands the technical definitions and the varying degrees of severity between possession, distribution, and production.

• Possession of Child Pornography (PC 311.11): This statute makes it a crime to knowingly possess or control any matter—whether a photograph, video, or digital file—that depicts a minor under 18 engaging in sexual conduct. In California, this is a "wobbler," meaning it can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.
• Distribution and Exchange (PC 311.1 & 311.2): Knowingly sending, bringing, or possessing such material with the intent to distribute it to others is a much more severe felony. Even a non-commercial exchange (such as a person-to-person transfer) carries heavy prison time.
• Production of Child Pornography (PC 311.4): Among the most serious offenses, this involves employing, using, or persuading a minor to engage in sexual acts for the purpose of creating pornography. This is always a high-level felony.

Penalties of Child Pornography Convictions in Torrance

Misdemeanor Consequences

• 1 year county jail
• Maximum fine of $2,500
• Lifelong Sex Offender Registration

In addition to possible time in county jail and fines, you may face strict probation terms, limits on your internet use, restrictions on where you can live, and ongoing monitoring by law enforcement. For someone living in or around Torrance, these restrictions can affect where you work, where your family can reside, and even whether you can participate in everyday community activities.

Felony Consequences

• Maximum 8 years in state prison
• Maximum fines of $100,000
• Lifelong Sex Offender Registration

Felony child pornography charges expose you to far more than the risk of state prison. A felony conviction can lead to strict mandatory supervision, extensive parole conditions, and a permanent criminal record that may limit housing options, employment opportunities, and professional licensing. 

For someone charged in Los Angeles County courts, including the Torrance Courthouse, a felony sex offense can also trigger intensive supervision programs and ongoing evaluation by specialized units within law enforcement.

How We Defend Child Pornography Cases in Torrance

Every case begins with a detailed review of the facts, the digital evidence, and the way law enforcement handled the investigation. In Torrance and throughout Los Angeles County, these cases often involve multiple agencies and complex computer forensics, so it is important to understand exactly what was seized and how it was analyzed. 

We look closely at whether the search warrant was properly issued, whether officers stayed within the scope of that warrant, and whether any of your constitutional rights were violated during the search or interrogation process. We also draw on Pat Carey’s experience in the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office to anticipate how the prosecution will present the case and what factors may influence their willingness to negotiate.

Once we understand the evidence, we work with you to develop a defense strategy that fits your situation and goals. 

• Challenging "Knowledge": Just because a file is on a hard drive doesn't mean the owner knew it was there. We show how hidden folders and automated syncing can lead to accidental possession.
• Forensic Metadata Analysis: We look at "access dates" and "file creation" data. If a file was never opened or viewed, it strongly supports a defense of lack of intent.
• Suppression of Evidence: We file Fourth Amendment motions to throw out evidence obtained via faulty warrants or unconstitutional digital "sniffing" techniques used by ISPs.
• Mitigation and Sentencing Advocacy: If the evidence is overwhelming, we work to secure "Tier 1" registration rather than lifetime requirements, and we pursue treatment-based alternatives to prison.

What To Do If You Are Under Investigation

Many people contact us before any charges are filed, often after a home search, a knock-and-talk by investigators, or a notice that their devices are being examined. This period can be confusing and frightening, but your choices now can have a major impact on the outcome of your case. 

You are not required to answer questions from law enforcement without a lawyer, and you have the right to decline consent to additional searches beyond what is authorized in a warrant. Exercising these rights respectfully and clearly is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself.

If you learn that a case may be submitted to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office or to federal prosecutors in downtown Los Angeles, contacting a child pornography lawyer in Torrance for guidance allows us to step in before charging decisions are final. 

We can communicate with investigators, help you avoid statements that may be taken out of context, and begin gathering documents or witnesses that tell your side of the story. By acting quickly during the investigation stage, we may be able to influence how the case is filed or whether it is filed at all, which can make a critical difference for your future.

Importance of Hiring a Lawyer for Child Pornography Charges in Torrance

If you are charged or simply being investigated for possessing child pornography, the consequences can be drastic. Your case can end up in federal court, where significant mandatory sentencing laws will apply, or you may end up in state court, where you may be forced to register as a sex offender for the rest of your life.

A child pornography attorney in Torrance should be able to move quickly when there is a search warrant, a knock at the door, or a request to speak with law enforcement. Early representation allows us to advise you before you talk to investigators, respond to subpoenas, or consent to searches of your home, phone, or computers. 

Because of Pat Carey's background as a former Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney, we understand how investigators and prosecutors evaluate these cases, what factors they consider when deciding whether to file charges, and what information may persuade them to reduce or decline a case.

Protect your reputation and your liberty. Secure a child pornography attorney in Torrance who has the technical expertise to challenge the state's forensic case. Call (310) 695-1118 or contact us online now to discuss your legal options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I Have To Appear In Court For Every Hearing?

In many child pornography cases, there will be several court dates in the Torrance Courthouse or another Los Angeles County courthouse. Depending on the type of hearing, a lawyer may be able to appear for you on certain dates, especially for routine status conferences or scheduling matters. For important hearings, such as arraignment, plea, or trial, you will usually need to be present so the judge can address you directly.

Can These Charges Affect My Job Or Professional License?

Sex-related offenses often have serious consequences beyond the criminal case itself. A conviction can trigger background check issues, mandatory reporting to licensing boards, and employment policies that lead to suspension or termination. Because of this, it is important to discuss your work situation with your lawyer so potential immigration, employment, and licensing impacts are considered when evaluating options in your case.

Should I Talk To The Police To Clear Up A Misunderstanding?

When someone believes the situation is a misunderstanding or that another person used their computer, it can be tempting to explain everything to investigators. However, statements made without a lawyer present can be misinterpreted or used to support charges later. It is usually safer to speak with a lawyer first, review what has already happened, and let the lawyer decide if and when any information should be shared with law enforcement.