Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image Lawyer in Bergen County, NJ
An Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image lawyer Bergen County is essential if you are charged under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9, a serious crime in New Jersey. This offense involves sharing private images without consent and can lead to severe penalties. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for clients facing these charges in Bergen County Superior Court.
What Is Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, the crime of Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image is defined by statute N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9. A person commits this offense if they knowingly disclose a photograph, film, videotape, recording, or other reproduction of an image depicting another person whose intimate parts are exposed or who is engaged in an act of sexual penetration or sexual contact, under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know or understand that the image was to remain private. The disclosure must be made without the consent of the depicted person and with the intent to harass or with reason to know the disclosure would cause emotional distress.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings a deep understanding of both sides of the courtroom to building a strong defense strategy for sensitive charges.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For court procedures and forms, visit the Bergen Vicinage website.
Bergen County Court Process for Unlawful Disclosure Charges
Charges under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9 in Bergen County are prosecuted in the Superior Court, Law Division-Criminal Part, located in Hackensack. The process is formal and can be lengthy. An affordable unlawful disclosure of an intimate image lawyer Bergen County can help handle the specific procedures of this court.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your attorney can engage with the prosecutor to present mitigating evidence and argue for a downgrade or dismissal before the case proceeds to a grand jury.
- Grand Jury & Indictment: If the state proceeds, a grand jury will decide if there is probable cause to issue a formal indictment.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your lawyer will file motions to challenge evidence and secure all discovery from the state to build your defense.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial in Superior Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will be imposed by a Superior Court judge based on statutory guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Unlawful Disclosure in NJ
In Bergen County, Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image is a crime of the third degree, carrying significant penalties upon conviction.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image (N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9) | Crime of the 3rd Degree | 3 to 5 years in state prison | Up to $15,000 | Mandatory registration under Megan’s Law if victim is a minor; permanent criminal record; possible civil liability; no-contact orders. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Sensitive Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. operates with the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders.” Our combined legal experience exceeds 120 years. We understand the significant personal and legal consequences of an intimate image disclosure charge. Our approach is to mount an aggressive defense from the outset, challenging the state’s evidence on elements like intent, consent, and privacy expectations.
Case Results
While specific results for this charge in Bergen County are not listed, our firm’s approach to sensitive criminal allegations is demonstrated in other jurisdictions. For example, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) in child pornography promotion cases and favorable probationary outcomes in other contested matters. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image Lawyer Near Me Bergen County
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Bergen County. We are accessible via I-80, the NJ Turnpike, Route 17, and the George Washington Bridge, making it easier to find an unlawful disclosure of an intimate image lawyer near me Bergen County. We serve Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Paramus, Englewood, Ridgewood, Fair Lawn, Bergenfield, Garfield, Mahwah, Ramsey, and Lyndhurst.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 334-7465
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image a felony in NJ?
Yes. Under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9, it is classified as a crime of the third degree, which is an indictable offense (felony-level) in New Jersey, punishable by 3 to 5 years in state prison.
Can I go to jail for sharing a private photo someone sent me?
It depends. If you knowingly disclosed it without the person’s consent and with intent to harass or reason to know it would cause distress, you can be charged. The key elements are lack of consent, your knowledge of its private nature, and your intent or the foreseeable impact of the disclosure.
What should I do if I am charged with this crime?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Immediately contact an Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image lawyer Bergen County. Preserve any evidence, including communications with the other party and the context in which the image was originally shared. Your lawyer will need this to build your defense.
Are there defenses to this charge?
Yes. Common defenses include lack of intent to harass, consent from the depicted person, belief that the image was already public, or challenging whether a “reasonable person” would understand the image was private. An experienced lawyer will identify the best defense strategy for your case.
Does this law apply if the person in the photo is an ex-partner?
Yes. The relationship to the victim is not a defense. In fact, many cases arise from former relationships. The law focuses on the lack of consent for disclosure and the harmful intent or impact, regardless of the prior relationship.
Related Legal Services in Bergen County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles business law, federal criminal defense, and DUI cases in Bergen County. For more information on this practice area statewide, visit our New Jersey civil litigation hub. We also serve neighboring areas like Atlantic County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
Your case in Bergen County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Bergen County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Bergen Vicinage (2nd Vicinage), 10 Main Street, Hackensack, NJ 07601, telephone (201) 527-2700, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Bergen County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Bergen County NJ lawyers directory · Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image Lawyer Hudson · Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image Lawyer Monmouth.