Third Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor Attorney in Durham County, NC

If you're facing charges for third degree sexual exploitation of a minor in Durham County, NC, you need immediate legal representation from an attorney who understands the complexities of these serious allegations. Patrick Roberts Law provides aggressive criminal defense for individuals accused of sexual exploitation charges throughout Durham County, including Durham, Chapel Hill, and surrounding communities. With over 22 years of experience as a former assistant district attorney and Duke Law graduate, Attorney Patrick Roberts brings unique insight from both sides of the courtroom to defend your rights and reputation.

Don't wait to protect your future. Call 919-746-7206 now for a confidential consultation with a skilled sexual exploitation defense attorney, or visit our contact us page to schedule your appointment today.

Understanding Sexual Exploitation of a Minor in North Carolina

Sexual exploitation of a minor is a serious felony offense in North Carolina that involves the use of minors in sexually explicit materials or performances. The state classifies these crimes into three degrees based on the severity of the conduct and the defendant's role in the exploitation.

Under North Carolina General Statute § 14-190.16, sexual exploitation of a minor occurs when someone uses, employs, or permits a minor to engage in or assist others in engaging in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing material that contains such conduct. This includes creating, distributing, or possessing such materials involving children under 18 years of age.

According to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, possession charges represent a significant portion of child exploitation cases prosecuted nationwide.

What Is Third Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor?

Under North Carolina General Statute § 14-190.17A, third degree sexual exploitation of a minor occurs when a person knowingly possesses material that contains a visual representation of a minor engaged in sexual activity. This charge typically involves possession of child pornography or similar materials depicting minors under 18 years of age in sexually explicit situations.

Key elements of third degree sexual exploitation include:

• Knowing possession of visual material
• Material depicting a minor (under 18 years old)
• Content showing sexual activity or sexually explicit conduct
• Intent to possess such material

It is important to understand how this charge differs from first degree and Second Degree Sexual Exploitation of a Minor offenses, which involve production or distribution rather than possession.

Penalties for Third Degree Sexual Exploitation in Durham County

Criminal Penalties

• Class H felony conviction with potential prison time of up to 25 months for first-time offenders
• Enhanced sentencing for repeat offenders or aggravating factors
• Substantial fines and court costs
• Extended supervised probation

Sex Offender Registration

• Mandatory registration on the North Carolina Sex Offender Registry
• Regular reporting requirements
• Restrictions on residence and employment
• Public disclosure of personal information

Collateral Consequences

• Loss of employment and future job limitations
• Suspension or revocation of professional licenses
• Housing restrictions
• Impact on custody or visitation rights

Don't let these consequences define your future. Call 919-746-7206 immediately to begin building your defense.

Defense Strategies for Third Degree Sexual Exploitation Cases

Challenging Digital Evidence

• Improper search and seizure procedures
• Invalid or overly broad search warrants
• Chain of custody errors
• Forensic analysis reliability concerns

Constitutional Violations

• Fourth Amendment search violations
• Miranda rights violations
• Due process concerns

Knowledge and Intent Defenses

• Lack of awareness of file contents
• Inadvertent downloads or file sharing
• Shared device or network access
• Age verification challenges

Why Choose Patrick Roberts Law for Your Durham County Case?

With over two decades of criminal defense experience, Patrick Roberts Law has defended clients against serious felony allegations throughout Durham County. As a former assistant district attorney, Attorney Roberts understands how the state builds its case and how to challenge weak or improperly obtained evidence.

Every case receives personalized attention and a strategic defense plan tailored to your specific circumstances. Our firm works with forensic specialists and investigators to thoroughly review digital evidence and protect your constitutional rights at every stage.

Need immediate legal assistance? Contact us at 919-746-7206 or visit our contact us page to schedule your confidential consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I'm being investigated?

Exercise your right to remain silent and contact an attorney immediately. Do not speak with law enforcement without legal representation present.

Can third degree charges be reduced or dismissed?

Depending on the circumstances, constitutional violations, insufficient evidence, or procedural errors may lead to reduced charges or dismissal.

Will I have to register as a sex offender?

Yes, conviction requires registration under North Carolina law with significant restrictions.

Contact Patrick Roberts Law Today

If you are facing third degree sexual exploitation of a minor charges in Durham County, your future is too important to risk. Call 919-746-7206 or visit our contact us page to schedule your confidential consultation today.

Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. Case results depend upon a variety of factors unique to each case. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.