Unlawful Dissemination or Publication of an Intimate Image Lawyer in Camden County, NJ
Unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image, often called revenge porn, is a serious crime in New Jersey under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9. In Camden County, a conviction can mean up to 18 months in prison, fines up to $10,000, and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
Understanding the Law on Unlawful Dissemination in New Jersey
The crime of unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image is defined under New Jersey statute N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9. This law makes it a crime to knowingly disclose, disseminate, or publish 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 act must be done without the consent of the person depicted and with the intent to harass or with reckless disregard for the risk of harassment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Camden Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a deep understanding of New Jersey’s criminal statutes and the serious consequences tied to sex crime allegations like unlawful image sharing.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9 (New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures and forms, visit the Camden Vicinage of the New Jersey Superior Court website.
The Camden County Court Process for Unlawful Dissemination Charges
Charges for unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image in Camden County are prosecuted in the Superior Court, Law Division-Criminal Part, located in Camden. These are indictable offenses (similar to felonies in other states). The local procedural field is critical; prosecutors in Camden Vicinage take these cases seriously due to their connection to cyber-harassment and potential for severe emotional harm to victims. A revenge porn defense lawyer Camden County must be prepared to challenge the state’s evidence on intent, consent, and privacy expectations from the outset.
- Arraignment & Initial Appearance: You will be formally advised of the charges in Superior Court. Bail conditions or pretrial release terms are set.
- Pretrial Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if constitutional rights were violated.
- Grand Jury Presentation: The prosecution presents evidence to a grand jury to secure an indictment, formally moving the case to the trial court.
- Plea Negotiations & Pretrial Conferences: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor, potentially seeking a plea to a lesser charge or advocating for a Pretrial Intervention (PTI) program.
- Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial where the state must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. An appeal to the Appellate Division may be filed based on legal errors during the trial.
Potential Penalties for Unlawful Dissemination in NJ
In Camden County, unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image is a crime of the third degree, carrying significant penalties that can impact your life long after any sentence is served.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlawful Dissemination or Publication of an Intimate Image (First Offense) | Crime of the 3rd Degree | 3 to 5 years in state prison | Up to $15,000 | None directly, but may affect professional licenses | Mandatory registration under Megan’s Law (sex offender), permanent criminal record, possible civil lawsuit from victim. |
| Unlawful Dissemination or Publication of an Intimate Image (Subsequent Offense or certain aggravating factors*) | Crime of the 2nd Degree | 5 to 10 years in state prison | Up to $150,000 | None directly, but may affect professional licenses | Mandatory registration under Megan’s Law, permanent criminal record, severe restrictions on residence and employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
*Aggravating factors can include the victim being under 18, the defendant being 21 or older, or the defendant acting with the intent to coerce the victim into sexual conduct.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands both sides of the courtroom. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients across multiple states. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your case in Camden County. We understand that an accusation of non-consensual image sharing carries a significant social stigma, and we fight to protect your reputation and liberty.
Our Approach to Unlawful Dissemination Cases
We analyze every case from multiple angles. Common defense strategies we explore include challenging the lack of consent, arguing the absence of intent to harass, questioning the expectation of privacy, and filing motions to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully. In one firm-wide matter, we successfully argued for the dismissal of charges where the evidence failed to prove our client knowingly disseminated the images. In another, we negotiated a favorable plea to a non-sex-offense disorderly persons charge, avoiding mandatory registration.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Camden County Residents
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.
Our New Jersey location serves clients across Camden County. We are accessible via I-76, Route 30, and the NJ Turnpike, and we represent individuals in Camden, Cherry Hill, Gloucester Township, Voorhees, Haddonfield, Collingswood, Pennsauken, Winslow, Haddon Township, Berlin, and Lindenwold. If you need an unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image lawyer Camden County near the Camden County Courthouse or your home, we provide 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is unlawful dissemination of an intimate image a felony in New Jersey?
Yes. In New Jersey, it is classified as an indictable crime (third or second degree), which is equivalent to a felony in other states. A conviction carries state prison time and mandatory sex offender registration.
What is the main defense against a revenge porn charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include lack of intent to harass, consent from the person depicted, no reasonable expectation of privacy (e.g., the image was already public), or mistaken identity. An experienced revenge porn defense lawyer Camden County will investigate all possibilities.
Can I go to jail for sharing a private photo someone sent me?
Yes, if you disclose it without consent and with intent to harass or reckless disregard for causing harassment. Even if you did not take the photo, disseminating it can lead to criminal charges under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9.
Does the victim have to be a minor for this law to apply?
No. The law applies to images of adults as well. If the victim is a minor, the charges and penalties become more severe, potentially elevating the crime to a second-degree offense.
What should I do if I am contacted by police about this?
Politely decline to answer any questions and immediately contact a lawyer. Do not discuss the case, explain yourself, or provide access to your phone or social media. Anything you say can be used against you. Call us for a 24/7 consultation at (888) 437-7747.
Can these charges be expunged in New Jersey?
It is very difficult. Most convictions for unlawful dissemination, as sex offenses under Megan’s Law, are not eligible for expungement. This underscores the critical need for a strong defense to avoid conviction altogether.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image in Camden County, do not wait. The consequences are too severe. Contact an unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image lawyer Camden County at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today for a confidential case review.
Internal Resources: For more on related charges, see our pages on Federal Criminal Defense in Camden County and Civil Litigation in Camden County. For defense in nearby areas, we also serve Burlington County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.