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Solicitation of a Minor on the Internet

The timely resolution of a charge of Internet crime calls for an attorney with exemplary legal skills and experience in negotiating effective solutions. To find out how our firm can help, contact us to schedule a consultation and case evaluation with an Internet crime attorney.

Internet Crime Defense Lawyer in Worcester, Massachusetts

With laws and prosecution of Internet and other computer crimes constantly evolving, it can be critical to turn to a proven trial attorney such as Daniel W. Cronin for counsel if you have been charged or come under investigation. Mr. Cronin is a longstanding, widely respected defender of Massachusetts residents' rights and futures — and a balanced, determined resource if you are dealing with allegations of possessing child pornography, identify theft, illegal downloading, or a white collar business or financial crime. The Cronin Law Firm offers a free initial consultation to begin assessing your case and understanding your overall circumstances.

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Attorney Daniel W. Cronin is well known for his defense work in Massachusetts state and federal courts, and he also benefits from prior valuable experience as a prosecutor. The versatile criminal defense firm he leads is a solid resource for people the Worcester-Middlesex County and MetroWest area.

Internet and other computer crimes are often investigated by federal authorities and prosecuted in U.S. District Court. At the federal level, law enforcement agencies and prosecutors have almost unlimited resources, and sentencing requirements and guidelines are stiff. Daniel W. Cronin of Worcester is sensitive to our clients' needs and goals, and determined to work toward positive outcomes by applying his knowledge of computer-based evidence and "cyber law," Massachusetts search and seizure, and other legal areas that may be essential to building the best possible defense for you.

Solicitation of a Minor on the Internet

Solicitation of minors for sexual purposes on the Internet is an issue that has grown immensely in the past decade. It is a crime that has garnered a great deal of attention; newsmagazine shows highlight "stings" of alleged sexual predators, and the government and advocacy groups widely distribute information to help parents protect their kids. The consequences of a conviction for soliciting a minor on the Internet can be very serious. If you have been involved in or are accused of soliciting a minor, contact an attorney from Cronin Law Firm in Worcester, Massachusetts, who will explain your rights.

What Is Solicitation of a Minor?

Solicitation of a minor for sexual purposes occurs when an adult contacts a victim, who is under the age of 18, with the intent of engaging in sexual activity with the victim. If the adult does engage in a sexual act with a minor, that is a separate offense.

The details of the law vary by state, and federal law often applies. An attorney can advise you of your state's specific law.

How Parents Can Help Protect Their Children

Even though plenty of laws and initiatives are aimed at protecting children while they are online, parents play a major role, too. Children can access instant messaging, chat rooms, bulletin boards and e-mail from home, the library and their friends' homes. While it helps to install protective software on the home computer, parents should also speak with their children about online safety.

It is important to explain to children that online strangers are just like real-life strangers; it is not appropriate to give them personal information. Parents should ask their kids to show them which Web sites they visit. Finally, children must understand that they should never arrange a meeting with someone they met online.

If You Have Been Charged with Solicitation of a Minor

When a law enforcement official poses as a minor on the Internet and the person who communicated with the official is subsequently charged with solicitation of a minor for sexual purposes, it is not a defense that the official was not actually a minor. If the defendant reasonably believed that the official was a minor, that is enough.

Which defenses you and your attorney ultimately choose to use will depend on the facts of the case and the state in which the events allegedly took place. It is essential to take a proactive stance to assert your best defense as soon as possible.

Contact an Attorney

A conviction for solicitation of a minor for sexual purposes can have severe consequences. In addition to the legal consequences, the social effect can be devastating. Speaking with an experienced lawyer who can help you sort out your rights and options could make all the difference. Contact an attorney from Cronin Law Firm in Worcester, Massachusetts, for legal advice.

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