Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image Lawyer in Atlantic County, NJ
The unlawful disclosure of an intimate image is a serious crime in New Jersey, prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9. In Atlantic County, a conviction can result in up to 18 months in prison, significant fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. If you are charged, you need an experienced unlawful disclosure of an intimate image lawyer Atlantic County.
New Jersey Law on Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image
New Jersey statute N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9 defines the crime of unlawful disclosure of an intimate image. A person commits this offense if they knowingly disclose a photograph, film, or other recording of another person whose intimate parts are exposed or who is engaged in sexual activity, and the disclosure is made without consent and with the intent to harass or embarrass the depicted person. The law is designed to combat “revenge porn” and other forms of non-consensual image sharing.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Atlantic Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands the severe personal and legal consequences of these charges. We approach each case with the urgency it demands, working to protect your rights, reputation, and future.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9 (official New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures and information in Atlantic County, visit the Superior Court of New Jersey, Atlantic Vicinage website.
Defending Against Unlawful Disclosure Charges in Atlantic County
Defending against an unlawful disclosure of an intimate image charge requires a detailed, case-specific strategy. In Atlantic County’s Superior Court, prosecutors take these cases seriously. A key local procedural fact is that these cases are heard in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court, not municipal court, due to their severity. The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office handles these indictable offenses, which are typically classified as fourth-degree crimes but can be elevated to third-degree under certain aggravating circumstances.
- Initial Case Assessment: Immediately secure all digital evidence and communications. Do not delete anything, as this can be construed as destruction of evidence.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your attorney may contact the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office to present mitigating facts or challenge the sufficiency of evidence before a formal accusation is made.
- Formal Proceedings: If indicted, your case will proceed through arraignment, discovery, and pre-trial conferences. Your lawyer will file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss charges if the statute’s elements are not met.
- Resolution Options: Depending on the evidence, potential resolutions range from a dismissal or downgrade of charges to negotiating for a Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) program, which can lead to dismissal upon completion.
- Trial Preparation: If a plea agreement is not in your best interest, your legal team will prepare a vigorous defense for trial, challenging the prosecution’s proof of intent, consent, and identity.
Potential Penalties for Unlawful Disclosure in New Jersey
In Atlantic County, unlawful disclosure of an intimate image is typically a crime of the fourth degree, carrying a prison sentence of up to 18 months and fines up to $10,000. Aggravating factors can elevate it to a third-degree crime.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlawful Disclosure (Standard) | 4th Degree Crime | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Possible Megan’s Law registration, civil liability, permanent criminal record. |
| Unlawful Disclosure (Aggravated) | 3rd Degree Crime | 3 to 5 years | Up to $15,000 | Mandatory sex offender registration under Megan’s Law, severe impact on employment and housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a record of more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, our team brings substantial resources to your defense. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we fight relentlessly for every client. We understand the sensitive nature of these charges and provide discreet, focused representation aimed at protecting your freedom and future.
Our Approach to Your Case
We begin every case with a thorough investigation, examining the evidence for weaknesses in the prosecution’s claim. We scrutinize whether there was a lack of consent, if you had the requisite intent to harass, and the validity of how evidence was obtained. In one firm-wide case, we secured a dismissal where the evidence showed the image was not disclosed by our client but by a third party who had accessed their device. Results may vary.
Contact Our Atlantic County Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image Lawyers
If you are searching for an unlawful disclosure of an intimate image lawyer near me Atlantic County, our New Jersey location serves clients throughout the region. We are accessible via the Garden State Parkway and Atlantic City Expressway.
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) 651-3900
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve Atlantic City, Egg Harbor Township, Galloway, Hamilton Township, Pleasantville, Hammonton, Absecon, Ventnor, Linwood, Brigantine, Margate, and all of Atlantic County.
FAQs: Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image in Atlantic County
Is unlawful disclosure of an intimate image a felony in NJ?
Yes. In New Jersey, it is classified as a crime (indictable offense), either fourth or third degree. While not called a “felony,” it is a serious state prison-level offense with consequences comparable to felonies in other states.
Do I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?
It depends on the specific circumstances and degree of the charge. A conviction for a fourth-degree offense may not always require registration, but a third-degree conviction typically mandates registration under Megan’s Law. An experienced affordable unlawful disclosure of an intimate image lawyer Atlantic County can advise on the specific risks in your case.
What if the image was shared by someone else who had my phone?
This can be a critical defense. The prosecution must prove you acted “knowingly.” If someone else accessed your device without your permission and shared the image, you may lack the required criminal intent. Your lawyer would work to present evidence supporting this lack of knowledge.
Can the charges be dropped if the person in the image consents later?
No. Consent must be given prior to the disclosure. Retroactive consent after the image is shared does not negate the crime, as the statute requires the disclosure be made “without consent.”
What should I do if I am being investigated for this?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a lawyer as early as possible. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf, potentially preventing charges from being filed or influencing how they are filed.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other serious charges, our firm also handles federal crimes and DUI offenses in Atlantic County. For broader New Jersey defense information, visit our New Jersey criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Cape May County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding an unlawful disclosure of an intimate image charge in Atlantic County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Your case in Atlantic 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 Atlantic County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Atlantic Vicinage (1st Vicinage), 1201 Bacharach Boulevard, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, telephone (609) 402-0100, 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 Atlantic 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: Atlantic County NJ lawyers directory · Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image Lawyer Bergen · Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image Lawyer Hudson · Unlawful Disclosure of an Intimate Image Lawyer Monmouth.