Logue Law Group: Defending Against Charges of Disseminating Harmful Material to Juveniles

Mercer, PA’s Trusted Defense Team

At Logue Law Group, our history of success speaks for itself. Our dedication to criminal defense has earned us recognition from peers both locally and nationally. We are proud of our accolades, such as the 2020 Client’s Champion award, which highlight our standing as a premier choice for legal defense in Pennsylvania. With over 15,000 cases successfully resolved, we have firmly established our capability in the legal arena.

Facing allegations of sharing material harmful to minors is a serious matter with potentially life-altering consequences. Our skilled legal team is here to protect your rights throughout the entire legal process. We prioritize our clients’ well-being above all else and are dedicated to building a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.

Trust Logue Law Group with Your Case

Tailored Legal Support

We handle every case with compassion and a thorough understanding of the distinct challenges our clients face. Our detailed investigation process ensures every piece of evidence is scrutinized to construct a persuasive defense against charges of providing harmful material to minors. If you are dealing with criminal allegations in Mercer, let our experience help guide you toward a solid defense strategy.

Overcoming Legal Obstacles

A conviction on these charges can leave a permanent mark on your record if not managed with expertise and precision. Our team excels at strategically navigating your case and advocating tirelessly for you. We are committed to securing the best possible result for your situation. A Mercer criminal lawyer from our team can be the advocate you need.

Call Logue Law Group at 412.389.0805 for a free consultation. We are ready to offer the assistance you need, keeping your best interests at the forefront.

Overview of Charges Involving Harmful Material to Minors

In Pennsylvania, the crime of disseminating harmful material to a minor falls under Pennsylvania Revised Code § 2907.31. The severity of the charge often depends on the age of the minor involved and the specific type of material.

Examples of “Harmful Material” Include:

• Books
• Newspapers
• Posters
• Pictures
• Videos
• Emails
• Text messages
• Social media messages

These charges can range from a misdemeanor up to a fourth-degree felony. It is vital to work with a Mercer DUI lawyer who understands criminal defense to ensure a comprehensive investigation into the allegations, ensuring you are not facing unwarranted charges.

Charges of sexual misconduct involving a minor bring intense scrutiny. Regardless of the accusations, protecting your rights is our main objective. You should not face these allegations alone; a robust defense involves much more than simply denying the prosecution’s claims.

Defining Dissemination of Harmful Material to Minors

According to Pennsylvania Revised Code § 2907.01, “harmful material” is defined as content that depicts “nudity, sexual conduct, sexual excitement, or sado-masochistic abuse.” While adults might not consider this material obscene, the law deems it harmful to minors. This content typically involves explicit sexual acts or extreme violence and lacks any serious value for juveniles.

Dissemination includes sharing, emailing, presenting, or showing this material. It is illegal to offer or expose minors to any form of obscene material, which can lead to felony charges. Even if the situation results in lesser charges, distributing harmful material to minors is still a crime.

Our Mercer criminal lawyer team is committed to offering top-tier defense for those facing these serious accusations in Pennsylvania. Our successful track record makes us a preferred choice for navigating the legal system’s complexities.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Laws on Harmful Material and Minors

Dealing with the legal consequences of distributing harmful material to minors in Pennsylvania is complicated. This guide breaks down the essentials, focusing on how the law views these issues, potential defenses, and the penalties one might face if convicted. Defendants need to understand the nuances of laws like the Pennsylvania Revised Code to prepare effectively.

Legal Strategies and Defenses

Several factors influence the outcome of charges related to distributing harmful material to minors. Here are key points a Mercer DUI lawyer might use in your defense:

• Knowledge of the Minor’s Age: The law considers whether the defendant knew the minor’s age. Evidence that the minor used a fake ID, such as a driver’s license or birth certificate claiming they were over 18, is vital.
• Affirmative Defenses: Certain conditions may prevent penalties for distributing harmful material:
  • The material was shared in the presence of the minor’s parent or guardian who consented.
  • The distribution was for a legitimate purpose (medical, scientific, educational, governmental, judicial) facilitated by a professional.
  • The material was sent via mass distribution with no reasonable way for the sender to know minors were recipients.

Penalties for Violations

The consequences depend on the material’s nature and the minor’s age:

• Harmful Material to a Minor: A first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail and fines up to $1,000.
• Obscene Material to a Minor: A fifth-degree felony punishable by six months to one year in prison and fines up to $2,500.
• Obscene Material to a Minor Under 13 Years: A fourth-degree felony punishable by six to 18 months in prison and fines up to $5,000.

Consulting a Mercer criminal lawyer is essential to understanding the specific penalties you may face.

The EARN IT Act and Its Implications

The “Eliminating Abusive and Rampant Neglect of Interactive Technologies Act” (EARN IT Act) requires companies like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft to report child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) on their platforms. While intended to protect minors, this act has sparked debate over Fourth Amendment privacy rights.

Efforts to refine the act ensure evidence collected is admissible in court. Information is shared with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) to combat the sexual exploitation of minors. A Mercer DUI lawyer can explain how federal acts might intersect with your case.

Logue Law Group: Defending Your Rights

Charges of sexual misconduct can devastate your life, affecting relationships and employment. At Logue Law Group, we ensure you understand your rights and defend you against accusations.

We focus on finding weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to develop robust strategies. We stay updated on evolving laws to protect our clients effectively.

If you face charges for disseminating harmful material to minors, contact a Mercer criminal lawyer for a free consultation. Our expertise can make a significant difference.

Resources for Those Facing Charges

For support, these resources may be helpful:

• Sex Offenders One-Stop Resource: Offers information on housing and reintegration for registered offenders in Pennsylvania and beyond.
• Cap4kids.com Service for Offenders: Lists advocacy and support services for those facing sex offense charges to aid in reintegration.

These resources help navigate the repercussions of such charges. A Mercer DUI lawyer can also point you toward local support systems.

FAQs on Disseminating Harmful Material to Minors in Pennsylvania

What is the definition of “disseminating harmful material” to minors?

It is the illegal act of providing, selling, exhibiting, or giving pornographic or obscene material (books, videos, messages, photos) to anyone under age 18.

Will I be required to register as a sex offender if I’m accused of disseminating harmful material to minors?

Yes. If convicted, you must register as a sex offender. This applies to anyone found guilty of sexual misconduct involving a minor. Speak to a Mercer criminal lawyer about the long-term implications of registration.

What are the implications if a minor is the perpetrator of disseminating harmful material to a juvenile?

The outcome varies. While often misdemeanors, minors’ involvement adds complexity. It is best to discuss this with a qualified attorney in a personal consultation. Logue Law Group offers free consultations.

If convicted of disseminating harmful material to minors in Pennsylvania, is imprisonment likely?

Penalties vary. If the material isn’t obscene and it’s a first offense, you may face misdemeanor charges. Repeat offenses or obscene material involving a minor under 13 can lead to 18 months in prison and a $5,000 fine. A Mercer DUI lawyer can help assess your risk.

How do harmful material and obscene material differ from each other?

Harmful material is sexually explicit content (nudity, certain sexual acts) not deemed obscene for adults. Obscene material is intended for sexual arousal without scientific or educational value, featuring explicit sexual activity.

What are the consequences if I was unaware that the material was being provided to a minor?

Pennsylvania Revised Code § 2907.31(D)(2)(a)(b) offers protection for online or business distribution. It allows an affirmative defense if the distributor lacked info to determine the recipient was a minor or couldn’t control who received the material. A Mercer criminal lawyer can help determine if this defense applies to you.

Seeking Legal Assistance

The Importance of Legal Representation

Allegations of disseminating harmful material to juveniles are grave and can lead to severe penalties. Hiring a dedicated attorney is crucial to protecting your rights. The right counsel can significantly impact your case’s outcome, potentially leading to reduced sentences or dismissal.

Contact Logue Law Group

Reach out to us at 412.389.0805 for a no-cost consultation. Our team is committed to defending clients against sex crime charges and providing support through challenging times. With our compassion and drive, we will formulate a robust defense strategy. Contact a Mercer DUI lawyer at our group today.