Revenge Porn Solicitors

Revenge porn is an incredibly serious offence. If you are facing allegations of revenge porn, it’s essential that you get help from an expert sexual offence solicitor to help with your defence. 

What is revenge porn?

Revenge porn is a criminal offence defined as sharing explicit images, videos or other materials of another person without their consent, with the intention of causing emotional harm. To be considered explicit content, the materials typically depict something that is not normally shown in public and would be considered to be of a sexual nature, if viewed by a reasonable person. 

Revenge porn applies to both online and offline activity including sharing images on social media, over text messages or distributing physical photographs.

Sharing Intimate Photographs or Film – Section 66B (1) – (3) Sexual Offences Act 2003

Under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, sharing intimate photographs or films can result in criminal offences when the following conditions are met:

  • Section 66B(1): The offender (A) shares a photo or film showing or appearing to show another person (B) in an intimate state without B’s consent, and A does not reasonably believe that B consents.
  • Section 66B(2): The offender (A) shares a photo or film with the intention of causing B alarm, distress, or humiliation, and B does not consent to the sharing.
  • Section 66B(3): The offender (A) shares a photo or film for the purpose of gaining sexual gratification, either for themselves or another person, without B’s consent, and A does not reasonably believe B consents.

If a victim cannot be identified, the prosecution will assess whether a lack of consent can be inferred from the available evidence.

What happens if you have been accused or charged with revenge porn?

If you have been accused of revenge porn, it’s vital to seek legal help as soon as possible. The quicker you get in touch with criminal defence solicitors, the better your chances of a successful outcome. We’ll work with you to understand your story and begin to develop a defence case. We’ll dig into the prosecution’s case, challenging evidence that may assist your case.

What defences are there against revenge porn accusations?

There are several defences against revenge porn accusations including: 

  • The defendant reasonably believed the materials had previously been publicly shared. 
  • The defendant published the material with journalistic intent and reasonably believed that it would be of public interest. 
  • The defendant reasonably believed that disclosure was necessary for investigation, prevention or detection of crime.
  • The material depicts a child in an intimate state, which is of a kind ordinarily shared between family and friends.
  • The material was taken in a place to which the public has access or had no expectation of privacy.

How can Lawton Solicitors help? 

At Lawtons, we have a dedicated team of criminal defence solicitors who can help you with revenge porn accusations. We will listen closely to your side of the story and use it to formulate a strong defence case, all while seeking to minimise damage to your reputation and personal life. Plus, with our years of experience dealing with sexual offence cases, we understand that every case needs to be dealt with sensitively and with discretion, helping you and your family navigate every step of the way.

FAQs about Revenge Porn

What actions are considered revenge porn?

Some of the most common revenge porn acts include: 
  • Sharing private or intimate images or videos on social media 
  • Sharing private or intimate images or videos on messengers, such as WhatsApp or Snapchat
  • Communicating with the intent to cause distress or anxiety
  • Unauthorised computer access

Can I be charged with revenge porn if I didn’t send anything online?

Yes, it is still considered revenge porn if the explicit images or videos were not shared online. Sharing intimate material in person is still a criminal offence. 

What are the sentences for revenge porn?

The sentencing guidelines for revenge porn depend on what you are charged with and your specific circumstances. However, revenge porn charges can lead to imprisonment for a maximum of two years. 

If I’m convicted of revenge porn, will it go on my criminal record?

If your revenge porn case goes to Court and you’re convicted of the crime, it will be recorded on your criminal record. The period of the endorsement will depend on the length of your sentence.