Unlawful Dissemination or Publication of an Intimate Image Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ
An unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image charge in Burlington County, NJ, is a serious crime under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9, often called revenge porn. A conviction can result in up to 18 months in prison, fines up to $10,000, and mandatory sex offender registration.
Understanding the New Jersey Statute on Unlawful Dissemination
New Jersey law, specifically N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9, criminalizes the non-consensual disclosure of an intimate image. This statute, often the basis for revenge porn charges, makes it a crime to knowingly disclose any 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 individual and with the intent to harass or with reason to believe the disclosure would cause emotional distress.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, refer to the New Jersey Legislature’s page for N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9. Court procedures and forms can be found on the Burlington Vicinage official website.
Local Court Process and Defense Strategy in Burlington County
Charges for unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image in Burlington County are prosecuted in the Superior Court, Law Division, Criminal Part, located in Mount Holly. These cases are typically handled by the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office. A strong defense often hinges on challenging the elements of the crime, such as lack of intent to harass, the existence of consent, or whether the image was truly private. A revenge porn defense lawyer Burlington County from our firm can analyze the evidence, including digital forensics and communication records, to build your case.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact our firm immediately after being contacted by police or served with a complaint. We will review the allegations and evidence against you.
- Investigation & Evidence Gathering: We conduct a thorough investigation, which may include examining digital devices, social media communications, and witness statements to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Indictment Negotiations: We engage with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office early to present mitigating factors and seek a reduction or dismissal of charges before formal indictment.
- Motion Practice: If necessary, we file pre-trial motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss charges based on legal insufficiency.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: We prepare a vigorous defense for trial while continuously seeking the best possible plea agreement to avoid the severe consequences of a conviction.
- Sentencing Advocacy: If a conviction occurs, we advocate forcefully at sentencing to minimize penalties, arguing against incarceration and for alternatives like probation.
Potential Penalties for Unlawful Dissemination in NJ
In Burlington County, unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image is a crime of the third degree, but can be elevated to a second-degree crime under certain aggravating circumstances, carrying severe penalties.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Unlawful Dissemination | 3rd Degree Crime | 3 to 5 years in prison | Up to $15,000 | Potential Megan’s Law registration (if minor involved), permanent criminal record, civil liability. |
| Aggravated Unlawful Dissemination (e.g., with intent to coerce, for profit, or depicting a minor) | 2nd Degree Crime | 5 to 10 years in prison | Up to $150,000 | Mandatory sex offender registration under Megan’s Law, parole supervision for life, severe impact on employment and housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the sensitive and complex nature of non-consensual image sharing charges and provide a discreet, strategic defense focused on protecting your reputation and freedom.
Our Approach to Your Case
We treat every unlawful dissemination case with the urgency it demands. Our defense strategy begins with a complete forensic analysis of the digital evidence. We scrutinize the provenance of the image, the context of its sharing, and the alleged lack of consent. We also explore all procedural defenses, including challenging the legality of searches of phones or computers. Our goal is to achieve a dismissal or reduction of charges. If the case proceeds, our trial attorneys are prepared to defend you vigorously in Burlington County Superior Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Burlington County Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing charges at Burlington County courts in Mount Holly. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, I-295, and Route 130. If you need an unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image lawyer near Mount Holly, Moorestown, or Medford, contact us for a consultation.
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) 651-0005
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
We serve communities throughout Burlington County, including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between unlawful dissemination and revenge porn?
Yes, they are essentially the same under New Jersey law. “Revenge porn” is the common term for the crime formally defined as “unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image” under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9. Both refer to the non-consensual sharing of private, sexually explicit images.
Can I be charged if I shared an image that was originally sent to me consensually?
It depends. If you shared the image with others without the consent of the person depicted, and you did so with intent to harass or reason to believe it would cause distress, you can be charged. Consent for one person to possess an image does not equal consent for that image to be disseminated further. A non-consensual image sharing lawyer Burlington County can analyze the specific facts of your case.
What should I do if I am being investigated for this crime?
No. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Immediately contact a defense lawyer. Do not delete anything from your phone or computer, as this can be seen as destruction of evidence. An attorney can advise you on your rights and intervene with investigators on your behalf.
Is this a federal or state crime in New Jersey?
Unlawful dissemination is primarily a state crime in New Jersey. However, if the images cross state lines or involve a minor, federal charges under laws like 18 U.S.C. § 2252A (child pornography) could also apply. Most cases in Burlington County are prosecuted under state law in Superior Court.
What are the possible defenses to an unlawful dissemination charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to harass, proof of consent to share the image, challenging whether the image is truly “intimate” or “private,” and contesting that you were the person who disseminated it. Illegal search and seizure of digital evidence is another key defense area.
Will I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?
It depends on the specifics of the charge. A standard third-degree conviction may not trigger Megan’s Law registration unless a minor is involved. However, a second-degree aggravated conviction often requires registration. An experienced unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image lawyer Burlington County can fight to avoid this lifelong consequence.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other serious charges, our firm also handles federal crimes, DUI offenses, and business litigation in Burlington County.
Other Locations: For help with similar charges in nearby counties, see our pages for a civil litigation lawyer Camden County or a civil litigation lawyer Atlantic County.
For more information on this practice area in New Jersey, visit our New Jersey Civil Litigation hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image charges in Burlington County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.