Child Pornography and Internet Crimes Defense

Being accused of an internet sex crime, especially child pornography, is one of the most serious situations a person can face. Our office handles these cases in both state and federal court, as they can be charged in either.

Even before a case goes to trial, the stigma of being connected to these accusations can damage your relationships, career, and reputation. That’s why you need strong legal representation from an experienced criminal sexual conduct attorney as soon as you learn you are under investigation.

Call Now: I’m Ready When You Are.

What My Clients Say

“Here’s the bottom-line: you need to call Shannon Smith if you’re accused of a sex crime. She knows how to stand up in-front of a jury, gain their trust, and earn you back your freedom. If the life and future of you or your loved one is valuable to you, can you afford NOT to have Shannon Smith on your side? There is no one like her when it comes to criminal sexual conduct cases, and the entire criminal defense attorney community knows it.”

– Brian P.

“Energy, enthusiasm, commitment to the client even with the controversial nature of law. Shannon has a keen interest in her trade and demonstrates it in many different ways. Often attorneys will take clients for granted and not help them understand the process. Not with Shannon.”

– Greg B.

“If you have been charged with any type of sex crime Shannon Smith is one of the most aggressive, and knowledgeable attorneys you could hire. She teaches other lawyers how to handle these types of cases. I would highly recommend her.”

– Aaron B.

Internet Sex Crimes in Michigan

Internet crimes are defined as offenses involving the use of a computer, phone, or internet connection. When sexual conduct is involved, the stakes are even higher.

Common charges include:

Solicitation of a minor online
Possession, distribution, or creation of child pornography
Indecent exposure or lewd behavior online
Sexting cases involving minors

Simply using the internet in the course of a crime can add additional penalties on top of the underlying charge.

Child Pornography Charges Explained

Child pornography includes any image or video that depicts sexually explicit conduct involving someone under 18.

There are several types of charges:

Possession – Having images or videos on your devices
Distribution – Sending or sharing files
Creation or Enticement – Producing or encouraging others to produce images

All convictions lead to mandatory sex offender registration, which affects where you can live, work, and travel, often for life.

It is important to understand that the law does not allow “I didn’t know their age” as a defense. That makes building a careful, thorough defense strategy essential.

Most cases begin with an investigation before charges are ever filed. By the time you are charged, prosecutors may already have gathered significant evidence.

The earlier I am involved in your case, the more options we have to challenge how that evidence was obtained and used.

Call Now: I’m Ready When You Are.

Why Clients Choose to Work With Shannon Smith Law

Internet crime and child pornography cases are among the most difficult and high-stakes charges in the legal system. Many lawyers avoid them. I don’t.

I have defended clients throughout Michigan, including cases where the evidence seemed overwhelming. My approach is thorough, aggressive, and grounded in years of experience.

I dig into the details, challenge investigators, and build a defense designed to protect your rights and your future.

Call Now: I’m Ready When You Are.

Let’s Talk About How We Can Win Your Case

If you’ve been accused of child pornography or any internet sex crime, you cannot wait to protect yourself. The consequences are severe, and prosecutors move quickly.