Unlawful Dissemination or Sale of Images of Another Lawyer Atlantic County, NJ
Charges for the unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another in Atlantic County, NJ, are serious and carry severe penalties under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9. This law, often called New Jersey’s “revenge porn” statute, criminalizes sharing intimate images without consent.
Understanding the Statute: Unlawful Dissemination or Sale of Images of Another
The crime of unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9. A person commits this offense if they knowingly disclose, disseminate, or sell any photograph, film, videotape, or other recording of another person whose intimate parts are exposed or who is engaged in sexual activity, under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know or understand that the image was to remain private. Crucially, the disclosure must be made without the consent of the person depicted and with the intent to harass or with reckless disregard for the emotional distress it would cause.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Atlantic Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience handling criminal matters, including those involving digital evidence and privacy violations.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to the New Jersey Legislature’s website for N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9. For court procedures and filing information in Atlantic County, visit the Atlantic Vicinage of the New Jersey Superior Court.
Potential Penalties and Defenses in Atlantic County
In Atlantic County, unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another is typically a crime of the third degree, punishable by 3 to 5 years in state prison and a fine of up to $15,000. If the defendant is 21 or older and the victim is under 18, it becomes a second-degree crime, carrying 5 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000. A conviction also requires registration under Megan’s Law.
| Offense Level | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Offense | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Megan’s Law registration, potential civil lawsuit |
| Victim Under 18, Defendant 21+ | 2nd Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Megan’s Law registration, potential civil lawsuit |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Approach to Your Defense
Defending against charges of unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another requires a nuanced strategy. In Atlantic County’s Superior Court, prosecutors take these cases seriously. A key defense often involves challenging whether the defendant had the requisite intent to harass or cause emotional distress. Other defenses may include arguing that the person depicted consented to the dissemination, that the image was not “intimate” as defined by law, or that the defendant was not the person who disseminated the image. The procedural steps in a case often involve intensive discovery of digital evidence, pre-trial motions to suppress evidence, and, if necessary, vigorous trial advocacy.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: We immediately secure all digital evidence and analyze the prosecution’s claim of intent and lack of consent.
- Investigation & Discovery: Our team scrutinizes the source of the images, metadata, communication records, and the context of the relationship between the parties.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We file motions to challenge the admissibility of evidence, question the validity of search warrants for digital devices, or argue for dismissal based on lack of probable cause.
- Negotiation & Litigation: We explore all options, from negotiating for a favorable plea to a lesser charge to preparing a full trial defense focused on intent, consent, or mistaken identity.
- Sentencing Advocacy: If a conviction occurs, we present mitigating factors to argue for the most lenient sentence possible under the circumstances.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have handled over firm-wide 4,739 cases with a documented favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that charges related to non-consensual image sharing are not only legally demanding but personally devastating. Our approach is direct, strategic, and focused on protecting your rights and future. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on serious criminal defense strategies, ensuring your case receives the attention it demands.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific results in Atlantic County for this charge are not publicly listed, our firm’s overall record in criminal defense is strong. We have successfully defended clients against a wide range of felony and misdemeanor charges across New Jersey and other states. Our strategies are case-specific to the specific facts of each case, whether that involves negotiating for dismissal, securing a favorable plea agreement, or achieving a not-guilty verdict at trial. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Atlantic County Defense Lawyers
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Atlantic County, including Atlantic City, Egg Harbor Township, Galloway, and Hamilton Township. We are accessible via the GSP and Atlantic City Expressway. If you need a revenge porn defense lawyer Atlantic County or a non-consensual image sharing lawyer Atlantic County, we are here to help.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Unlawful Dissemination Defense
What is the difference between unlawful dissemination and “revenge porn”?
Yes. “Revenge porn” is a common term for the crime formally known as unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9. The law covers sharing intimate images without consent and with intent to harass or cause distress.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the image was supposed to be private?
It depends. The statute requires that the disclosure be made under circumstances where a reasonable person would know the image was to remain private. If a strong argument can be made that a reasonable person would not have understood it was private, it could be a valid defense.
What if the other person originally sent me the image willingly?
No. Consent to possess an image is not the same as consent to disseminate it. The law specifically targets disclosure without the consent of the person depicted. The initial receipt does not grant permission to share it with others.
Are there defenses against unlawful dissemination charges?
Yes. Common defenses include lack of intent to harass, consent to disseminate, mistaken identity of the person who shared the image, or that the image does not meet the legal definition of “intimate.” Each case is unique and requires a detailed analysis.
What should I do if I am being investigated for this crime?
Promptly contact a defense lawyer. Do not speak to law enforcement or anyone else about the case. Do not delete any data from your devices, as this could lead to additional charges for evidence tampering. A lawyer can guide you through the process.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current guidance on unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another charges in Atlantic County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
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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 Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. § 1101 and following. 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 Dissemination or Sale of Lawyer Bergen County · Unlawful Dissemination or Sale of Lawyer Hudson County · Unlawful Dissemination or Sale of Lawyer Monmouth County.