Accused of revenge porn? Protect your reputation with compassionate specialists.
Being accused of revenge porn is overwhelming. There are consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom. The impact on your career and personal life is severe, making it essential to act fast.
It's natural to feel like your world is being turned upside down. The most intimate parts of your life are scrutinised in a way you never imagined.
You don't have to despair. Our specialist solicitors understand the complexities and work to manage the social stigma, letting you feel like you're not alone.
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Accusations of revenge porn carry heavy social stigma
Being accused of revenge porn is more than just an offence. It can come with scrutiny and social stigma that is damaging both personally and professionally. The offence is driven by public opinion and in the age of social media, it can feel impossible to fight.
A person can feel judged before a case even reaches court. They may feel like their family, friends and employer have made snap judgements about them. As a result of this, people feel the sting of consequences far beyond what happens in a court room.
Being accused of revenge porn can have lasting effects which impact people's relationships long after a case finishes.
These cases are complex, personal and powered by public opinion
Revenge porn cases are uniquely challenging. They revolve around digital evidence which prosecutors can manipulate. This often leads to biased assumptions from the outset from police officers and maybe even defence lawyers. People can feel like the background to the relationship is misinterpreted and any heartbreak, lies or cheating is overlooked.
The evidence can look impossible to challenge. It will be made up of forensic evidence, social media activity and communication records. Once a message has been sent, people tend to jump to conclusions, leaving the person accused feeling isolated and judged.
Given the drive of public opinion, these cases can lead to possible media coverage, adding to the overall emotional distress. People can feel misunderstood and be labelled the same as someone who commits a terrible sexual offence, such as rape. This does not represent that person's true character.
You can build a defence to revenge porn allegations early on
Despite the above problems, a positive outcome is not out of reach. A good lawyer will shoulder the burden with you. Having a lawyer by your side will provide a sense of support and teamwork to help find a way forward.
Defence lawyers can ensure the context to your relationship is prioritised and understood so that you don't feel "lumped in" with other sex offenders. They can consider your relationship on a detailed level whilst analysing all communications between the two of you. Lawyers for revenge porn cases know what is needed in order to make a plan with you.
The above expertise will help to give you your independence and dignity back.
Experienced and specialised revenge porn lawyers do exist
We are specialist revenge porn lawyers. We challenge biased assumptions and are aware of the intricacies involved in such personal subjects. We build a background to your relationship with you so that you feel we know everything and we instruct experts to help build this picture.
From the first call from the police, we will manage all communications with them and the prosecution. We are the buffer between you and them. If your case is at the police station, we may advise you to give no comment in your interview or we could draft a prepared statement stating your defence.
If your case is already at court, we instruct specialist barristers to represent you. Everything is designed to help the jury see what was really happening in the relationship. We aim to demonstrate a lack of malicious intent and highlight consent within the context of a relationship.
All of this will make you feel like you're not on your own. You have a team working only for you.
Essential steps to take and avoid if you are accused of revenge porn
Engage a solicitor immediately. Get advice from experienced criminal defence solicitors who understand revenge porn cases. Call us.
Do keep hold of any evidence and document everything. Keep all digital communication, messages and other relevant materials to support your defence.
Be frank with your solicitors. They will be aware of the shame and embarrassment that comes with speaking about personal matters but try to put that to one side.
Don't discuss anything without a lawyer present, whether this is with the police or prosecution.
Don't contact the complainant. Whilst this is tempting as you will probably know them on a personal level, avoid doing so and potentially committing a further offence.
Don't post about the situation on social media or delete any digital evidence. Avoid sharing anything online related to your case.
Don’t delay. Waiting to seek legal assistance can lead to missed opportunities to build a strong defence.
No-tricks fixed-fee pricing
We can usually offer a fixed fee instalment plan so you can plan for the expense, and so you can fund your case in stages while it is continuing.
Private representation
Once we have an idea of what kind of case you are facing and what work that will be necessary, we will then be able to provide you with a fixed fee quote. This means that you know before you commit how much your case will cost.
What's included?
Frequently asked questions
Will I go to prison if I am convicted of revenge porn?
The offence of sharing private sexual images or videos without consent, with the intent to cause distress carries a maximum sentence of two years imprisonment in the UK. However, not all convictions result in a prison sentence.
The court will consider several factors before sending someone to prison. These include:
Intent. Was there a deliberate intent to cause distress or was the act accidental?
Harm caused. The emotional and psychological impact on the complainant can vary from case to case.
Factors such as widespread distribution i.e. how many people was the image sent to and repeat offences are all considered.
Demonstrating remorse and having no previous convictions will also reduce the sentence.
What should I do if I'm accused of revenge porn?
The first step is to stay calm and engage with a specialised solicitor, as soon as you think you might be accused. Avoid speaking to the police or discussing the matter with anyone until you have legal representation. Collect any evidence that may be relevant and document your account of events.
Can I be charged if the material was shared without malicious intent?
Yes, you can still be charged. The police may focus on the impact on the individual rather than your intent. However, proving the absence of malicious intent can be part of a strong defence, which is why having an experienced solicitor is crucial.
What kind of evidence can be used against me?
Evidence may include digital files such as images or videos, communication records like text messages and emails, social media activity and witness statements from friends or family. Your legal team will review and challenge whether the material is admissible in court and the context behind it all.
Could my case be dropped before trial?
Yes, with the right defence team, it is possible for cases to be dismissed before trial. This could be due to insufficient evidence, procedural errors or successful challenges made by your solicitor during the investigation stage.
How long will the case take?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case, the volume of evidence and how proactive the police are. Your solicitor will be able to provide a clearer timeline based on the specifics of your situation and guide you through each stage as quickly as possible.
Contact information
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We'll get back to you as soon as possible. We are happy to speak to you if you have a query, and either have a free consultation on the phone or in person if necessary.