Child Pornography Defense Lawyer in Tacoma

Facing Child Pornography Charges Is Overwhelming. We Can Help

A knock on the door, a search warrant, agents taking your computer and phone, or an unexpected arrest can turn your life upside down in a matter of minutes. If you are under investigation or facing child pornography allegations, you may feel panicked, ashamed, and unsure where to turn. The stakes are serious, and what you do next can affect the rest of your life.

At Hester Law Group, we represent people in this situation and their families. We understand how isolating these accusations feel and how frightening it is to think about jail, a permanent record, and sex offender registration. Our attorneys focus on protecting your rights, guiding you through each step, and working to limit the damage to your future as much as the facts and law allow.

Our criminal defense team brings over 130 years of combined experience to serious cases like these. Some of our attorneys hold a 10.0 Superb Avvo Rating and are listed in Best Lawyers in America, which reflects a long record of committed advocacy in high-stakes matters. If you need a child pornography attorney in Tacoma who will treat you with respect and discretion, we are ready to speak with you in a free and confidential consultation.

Contact a child pornography attorney in Tacoma at (253) 300-3034 or reach out online for a free consultation. We are available 24/7 to stand by your side.

Understanding Washington’s Child Pornography Laws

Washington statutes classify offenses involving depictions of minors into several categories.

• Possession (RCW 9.68A.070): Knowingly possessing visual or printed matter of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. This is a Class B Felony. Notably, for first-degree possession, each image can be treated as a separate unit of prosecution.
• Dealing (RCW 9.68A.050): This includes the dissemination, exchange, or sale of depictions. Even "uploading" a single file or allowing a peer-to-peer (P2P) network to share files from your computer can trigger a "dealing" charge, which carries harsher sentencing than simple possession.
• Viewing (RCW 9.68A.075): Intentionally viewing depictions over the internet, even if the files were never saved to a hard drive. This is often a Class B or Class C Felony depending on the degree.

Penalties of Child Pornography Convictions in Tacoma

Washington's sentencing guidelines for these offenses are "determinate," meaning judges have specific ranges they must follow based on the "offender score."

• First-Degree Offenses: Class B Felonies punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a $20,000 fine.
• Second-Degree Offenses: Often punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.
• Community Custody: Most convictions include a mandatory term of Community Custody (probation), often lasting 36 months, during which your internet use and movements are strictly monitored.

The "SOSA" Alternative

For some first-time offenders, we may be able to argue for a Special Sex Offender Sentencing Alternative (SOSA). This allows for a suspended sentence in exchange for intensive, state-mandated treatment. This is a complex legal path that requires an attorney who understands how to negotiate with the Pierce County Prosecutor's Office.

A conviction for a sex offense in Washington carries serious collateral consequences. Individuals are required to register on the state’s Sex Offender Registry, which can limit where they live and work. They also face a permanent loss of firearm rights and a temporary loss of voting privileges. Additionally, such convictions often bar employment in fields involving children, healthcare, or positions that require government security clearances.

How We Defend Child Pornography Cases in Tacoma

Our approach to defending child pornography cases is highly individualized. We carefully review all evidence, listen to your account, and examine how the investigation was conducted. Digital evidence is often central, so we scrutinize devices, search warrants, and account access to identify legal or factual issues that could support motions, negotiations, or trial defenses.

We also analyze intent, knowledge, and access, considering factors like shared devices, network use, or automatic downloads that may complicate the prosecution’s story. Because these cases can arise in state or federal court, we tailor strategies to the system involved, explaining procedural differences and likely outcomes.

At Hester Law Group, we combine high-level legal strategy with independent technical expertise to challenge the state’s evidence.

• Suppression of Evidence: If the Tacoma Police or FBI exceeded the scope of a search warrant or seized your devices without probable cause, we move to have that evidence thrown out.
• Independent Forensic Analysis: we work with digital forensic experts to analyze metadata and file structures, often finding evidence that a user never actually opened or viewed the files in question.
• Intent Challenges: Washington law requires that possession be "knowing." We build defenses around the lack of criminal intent, focusing on how the material arrived on the device.
• Character Advocacy: We present a comprehensive view of who you are, utilizing psychological evaluations and character references to humanize you before the court and seek mitigated outcomes.

Throughout, we align our defense with your priorities—whether that’s avoiding trial, reducing incarceration risk, or limiting registration obligations—while providing clear guidance on realistic options and potential risks.

The Digital Forensics Trap

Most cases in Tacoma begin with a "Cybertip" from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) or an IP address flag. However, an IP address is not a person. As your Tacoma child pornography lawyer, we look for technical vulnerabilities that the prosecution might ignore:

• Insecure Wi-Fi Networks: Proving that third parties or neighbors had access to your internet connection.
• Malware and "Drive-By" Downloads: Identifying viruses or pop-up redirects that can download illegal content without the user's knowledge.
• Shared Devices: Determining if other household members or guests had access to the specific computer or phone where files were found.
• Cloud Syncing Errors: Investigating cases where files were automatically synced from a shared account or old device without active intent.

Why Choose Our Defense Team For Child Pornography Cases

Our attorneys at Hester Law Group bring more than 130 years of combined criminal defense experience to the table. Over decades, we have handled serious felony charges in trial and appellate courts, so we are familiar with how prosecutors build their cases and how judges typically respond to different issues.

Members of our team have been recognized with 10.0 Superb Avvo Ratings and listings in Best Lawyers in America. These recognitions come from peers and clients and reflect sustained, high-level work in demanding criminal matters. While they do not guarantee results in any particular case, they signal the care and dedication we bring to defending people whose futures are on the line.

We regularly practice in Washington state courts and in federal courts, and our record includes work in Washington, Oregon, and California. This is important, because some child pornography investigations in this area remain in state court, while others are pursued by federal authorities and prosecuted in the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington.

We also understand that discretion is essential. Our attorneys have handled both high-profile cases that drew public attention and very private matters that never appeared in the news. In each situation, we work to protect client confidentiality, limit unnecessary exposure, and address practical concerns about employment, family, and community standing.

Steps To Take Now If You Are Under Investigation

If you want a child pornography lawyer in Tacoma who will treat your situation with the seriousness and privacy it deserves, our team is here to listen and help you plan next steps.

When you are under investigation for suspected child pornography, taking careful steps early can help safeguard your rights, prevent mistakes, and set the foundation for an effective defense.

• Exercise your right to remain silent. Politely tell law enforcement you want to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. Avoid detailed interviews without counsel, as statements made prematurely can be difficult to challenge later.
• Do not alter or delete devices or accounts. Changing files, resetting devices, or deleting content can be seen as destroying evidence and may lead to additional charges. Focus instead on documenting what has already occurred.
• Keep detailed records. Write down dates, times, statements, and interactions with investigators. Preserve copies of search warrants, notices, or business cards from agents to help your lawyer review the case accurately.
• Be transparent with your attorney. If you have already spoken to investigators, share all details with your lawyer. Full disclosure allows them to give accurate advice and anticipate what prosecutors may present.
• Contact a defense firm early. Early involvement can influence how authorities view your case, clarify misunderstandings, and help prepare for likely charges. A confidential consultation allows you to understand your options and plan your next steps.

Talk With Our Defense Team In Confidence

 At Hester Law Group, our attorneys bring decades of combined criminal defense experience, recognition from respected rating organizations, and a history of work in both state and federal courts to every serious case we handle. We focus on protecting your rights, treating you with respect, and working to safeguard your future as much as the facts and law permit.

If you are looking for a child pornography lawyer in Tacoma who understands the stakes and will handle your case with discretion, we encourage you to reach out. We offer free, confidential consultations so that you can speak with a member of our team, ask questions, and learn about your options before deciding how to move forward. Your call is private, and there is no obligation to hire us.

To discuss your situation with our child pornography defense attorneys, call (253) 300-3034 or fill out this online form today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I Have To Register As A Sex Offender If I Am Convicted?

Many child pornography convictions in Washington require sex offender registration, sometimes for life. The exact obligations depend on the charge and jurisdiction. Reduced or alternative charges may lead to shorter registration periods. A knowledgeable attorney can explain how different outcomes could affect your registration obligations and help you understand the long-term consequences while guiding you in making informed decisions about trial or negotiated resolutions.

Can Your Firm Handle Federal Child Pornography Charges?

Yes, our team represents clients in federal child pornography cases. Federal investigations follow different procedures and sentencing guidelines than state cases. Our experience in federal courts in Washington and other states allows us to navigate federal rules, communicate with prosecutors, and advise clients on risks and defense strategies unique to the federal system. We guide clients on how federal involvement may affect their case.

How Private Will My Case Be If I Hire You?

We treat all child pornography cases with strict confidentiality. Communications with attorneys are protected by attorney-client privilege, and we take care to limit unnecessary public exposure. Some court filings and dates are public record, but we can help manage media attention and protect privacy where possible. Our experience balancing discretion with strong advocacy ensures clients’ sensitive matters are handled carefully.

How Soon Should I Contact A Lawyer After A Search Or Arrest?

It’s critical to contact a defense attorney as soon as possible after a search, seizure, or arrest. Early involvement allows the lawyer to advise before you speak with investigators, review paperwork, and start evaluating evidence. Acting quickly helps protect rights, meet deadlines, and potentially influence how the case proceeds. A free consultation can clarify next steps and help you decide how to move forward.

What Can I Expect During The First Consultation With Your Attorneys?

During the first consultation, you’ll have a confidential conversation to describe your situation and review any documents like warrants or charging papers. The attorney explains how similar cases move through the courts, potential risks, and available defenses, without promises of outcomes. You can ask questions about process, communication, and fees. By the end, you should have a clear understanding of your options and next steps.

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