With the rise in technology, clients sometimes question our Fort Worth TX criminal defense lawyer about internet crimes, such as computer hacking, child pornography, stalking or identify theft. Various federal and state laws address internet crimes, and the penalties depend on the jurisdiction and type of offense.
Computer Crime vs. Internet Crime
Internet crime include offenses that directly relates to the Internet, such as anything involving websites or email or using the Internet to try to scam or defraud someone. Computer crimes are broader as they relate to any offenses involving computers.
Examples of Offenses
- Solicitation of children – If someone who is 18 or older attempts to solicit a minor child who is 16 or younger via the Internet to engage in a sexual act, he or she has committed a crime. This applies even when an adult poses as a minor.
- Bullying, stalking or harassment – Most states have made it illegal to use the Internet in this manner. Some states have specific laws designed to protect minors from cyber-bullying.
- Various other laws – Other laws might include federal wire fraud or an attempt to swindle someone out of money or property via the Internet. Computer laws are regularly updated in order to protect the public.
Possible Sanctions
The type of sanction depends on the offense and could include one or more of the following:
- Fines – Depending on the severity of the offense and the classification as a misdemeanor or a felony, fines could range from hundreds of dollars to upwards of six figures.
- Probation – Community supervision usually lasts at least 12 months. The person must remain law-abiding, report to the probation officer, keep a job, pay all related fees and abide by any other court-imposed sanctions.
- Incarceration – The person could receive a jail or prison term ranging from a few months to more than 20 years for the most serious offenses.
Contact Our Fort Worth TX Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you need answers about internet crimes, contact the Law Office of Bryan P. Hoeller, our Fort Worth TX criminal defense lawyer.
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Highly recommend! Colin thank you so much for your dedication. Thank you for actually wanting to sincerely help and give us the best outcome we can get. You are by far one of the best. You helped my bf reschedule a court date after it was missed and was able to give him the same plea deal. Thank you again Colin.
Kassandra H
Absolutely wonderful! Collin was fantastic. He really fought for me and I am very happy with the outcome of my case. He really fought for my case to have a positive outcome and was supportive, easy to get ahold of when needed and walked me through everything. I would definitely recommend him to anyone and everyone!!
Stephanie M
I would highly recommend Hoeller McLaughlin. They helped my husband on a probation violation case and did an excellent job. Dustin Trammel was our attorney and he communicated with us and was supportive and helpful throughout the process. Very good legal service and would recommend this firm.
Hillary G
Colin by far has been one of the BEST attorneys in Ft. Worth. His dedication and attentiveness really shows not only in court but with the client and family. Great communication, easy web portal and friendly staff. 5 stars are NOT enough. Thank you Colin
Stephanie Alvarado
I can not say enough about how grateful I am that Dustin Trammel was my attorney! Having no experience with court proceedings, Dustin explained everything and stayed in touch with me the entire time. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney! Very highly recommend!!
Brenna Mills
