Illegal Downloading Crimes in East Bay
Call a Walnut Creek Criminal Defense Lawyer Now
The Internet gives us the ability to transmit files of any type to anyone
else nearly instantaneously, but this is not always in line with the law
regarding things such as intellectual property or sensitive information.
Illegal downloading is one of the most commonly-occurring crimes anywhere
in the world nowadays; so common that
estimates have posited that in 2010 more than 75% of all computers had at least one piece of software on them
that was illegally downloaded, totaling more than $59 billion. This was
bolstered by a generally lax public opinion on online piracy, with 70%
of all users saying they found nothing wrong with illegal downloading.
Because of this immense financial impact and the ease with which this crime
can be committed, federal investigators have significantly ramped up their
efforts to stop illegal downloads, both by making more arrests and levying
extraordinarily harsh penalties. If you are accused of illegal downloading
in East Bay, it is imperative that you retain the services of a
Walnut Creek criminal attorney who is well-versed in copyright and Internet crime laws to help you fight
back against your charges.
If you are facing illegal downloading charges, call The Cardoza Law Offices
at (925) 274-2900 to schedule your
free consultation!
Illegal Downloading Laws and Penalties
Illegal downloading is a federal crime that is protected by United States
Code Title 17, sections 501 and 506. This constantly-evolving piece of
legislation prohibits the unauthorized copying, distribution, or transmission
of copyrighted material. This essentially means that if you do not own
the rights to a particular piece of intellectual property, you are forbidden
downloading it or hosting it for download, as both of these actions make
an illegal copy of that particular work.
Some common creative works that are frequently downloaded illegally include:
- Music
- Movies
- TV Shows
- Computer software
- Video games
- Confidential information
The penalties for a conviction of illegal downloading are intense, making
a well-orchestrated criminal defense vital to your future and your livelihood.
According to statutes, illegal downloading could cause you to have to
pay out damages ranging from $750 to $30,000
per work. That means a 10-song album illegally downloaded could cause you to pay
$300,000 in damages! However, there have been even bigger damages awarded
in the past, including a Minnesota woman who was required to pay $80,000
per song, totally nearly $2 million in fines!
Proven Representation for Your Case
The Cardoza Law Offices has assisted residents of the East with their criminal
cases for many years. Our skilled team has represented clients against
a wide range of criminal defense charges, including various Internet crimes. Founding
Attorney Michael Cardoza has even been relied upon by national media for his legal knowledge, including
advisory appearances on programs such as
Today, The Larry King Show, and
Oprah.
Contact The Cardoza Law Offices in Walnut Creek today and get the legal representation
you need for your case.