Unlawful Dissemination or Sale of Images of Another Lawyer in Burlington County, NJ
The unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another is a serious crime in New Jersey, prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9. In Burlington County, a conviction can mean years in prison, mandatory sex offender registration, and lasting damage to your reputation and career. If you are accused of this offense, often called revenge porn, you need a strong defense.
New Jersey Law on 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. This statute makes it illegal to knowingly disclose, disseminate, or sell any photograph, film, videotape, recording, or other reproduction of another person whose intimate parts are exposed or who is engaged in a sexual act, when the person depicted has not consented to the disclosure. The law is designed to combat what is commonly known as revenge porn or non-consensual image sharing.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands the severe implications of these charges. A conviction is not just a legal penalty; it can destroy personal relationships and professional standing.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9 (official New Jersey Legislature site). For court procedures and forms in Burlington County, visit the Superior Court of New Jersey, Burlington Vicinage website.
Burlington County Court Process for Image-Based Offenses
Charges for the unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another in Burlington County are heard in the Criminal Division of the Superior Court in Mount Holly. The process is demanding and begins with a complaint, often followed by an indictment from a grand jury. The Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office aggressively pursues these cases, which are treated as serious indictable crimes (felonies).
- Initial Appearance & Complaint: You will be served with a complaint and have an initial hearing where charges are formally read.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your attorney can engage with the prosecutor to present mitigating facts or challenge the sufficiency of evidence before the case goes to a grand jury.
- Grand Jury Indictment: Most felony-level charges require a grand jury to issue an indictment, moving the case to the Superior Court.
- Pre-Trial Conferences & Motions: Your lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or obtain discovery. Case management conferences set the trial schedule.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: The majority of cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial in Mount Holly.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will be based on the degree of the crime and other factors, potentially including prison time and Megan’s Law registration.
Potential Penalties for Unlawful Dissemination in NJ
In Burlington County, unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another is typically a third-degree crime, punishable by 3 to 5 years in state prison, but can be elevated to a second-degree crime carrying 5 to 10 years if certain aggravating factors are present.
| Offense Level | Crime Degree | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlawful Dissemination | 3rd Degree | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Mandatory sex offender registration under Megan’s Law, possible parole supervision for life, civil liability. |
| Unlawful Dissemination (Aggravated) | 2nd Degree | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Mandatory sex offender registration, parole supervision for life, severe impact on employment and housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Sensitive Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands both sides of the courtroom. We approach charges for the unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another with a focused strategy aimed at protecting your future. We scrutinize the evidence for constitutional violations, challenge the element of consent, and work to mitigate the potential for lifelong consequences like sex offender registration.
Case Results in Sex Crimes Defense
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in sex crime cases. While results are specific to each case, our approach is thorough and aggressive. For instance, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) in cases involving allegations of distributing child pornography and negotiated suspended sentences with probation in other sensitive matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Burlington County Charges
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 throughout Burlington County. We are accessible from major routes like the NJ Turnpike and I-295, making it convenient for meetings as we prepare your defense for court in Mount Holly. We provide 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with in-person meetings by appointment only. We serve communities including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, and Willingboro.
FAQs: Unlawful Dissemination or Sale of Images Defense
Is “revenge porn” a specific crime in New Jersey?
Yes. New Jersey’s law against the unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another (N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9) is the statute that criminalizes what is commonly called revenge porn or non-consensual image sharing.
Can I go to jail for sharing an intimate photo without consent in Burlington County?
Yes. This is typically a crimey of the third degree punishable by 3 to 5 years in New Jersey state prison. The sentence depends on the specifics of the case and your prior record.
Do I have to register as a sex offender if convicted?
It depends. A conviction under N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9 often triggers mandatory registration under Megan’s Law. The specific tier and duration of registration depend on the facts and the judge’s determination, making a strong defense critical to avoid this lifelong consequence.
What should I do if I am accused of unlawful dissemination?
Do not speak to law enforcement or the alleged victim without an attorney. Contact a defense lawyer as early as possible. An attorney can advise you on preserving your rights and begin building a defense strategy, such as challenging lack of consent or unlawful search and seizure.
What defenses are available against these charges?
Potential defenses include lack of intent, consent from the person depicted, that you are not the person who disseminated the image, or that the image does not meet the legal definition under the statute. An experienced revenge porn defense lawyer Burlington County can identify the best strategy for your case.
Can the victim sue me civilly as well?
Yes. The person whose image was shared can file a separate civil lawsuit for damages, including emotional distress and invasion of privacy. A criminal defense attorney can also advise on managing potential civil liability.
How can a lawyer help with a non-consensual image sharing case?
A skilled non-consensual image sharing lawyer Burlington County negotiates with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges, files motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and prepares a vigorous trial defense to protect your freedom and future.
What if the image was taken with consent but shared without it?
The key issue under the law is consent to *disclosure*, not consent to creation. Even if the photo was taken consensually, sharing it without the subject’s permission can still constitute the crime of unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing related charges, our firm also handles federal crimes and DUI defense in Burlington County. For broader context, see our New Jersey Civil Litigation hub page or learn about similar defenses in Camden County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For current advice regarding charges for the unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Your case in Burlington 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 Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, 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 Burlington 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: Burlington 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.