Revenge Porn

It’s not uncommon for adults to take sexually explicit photos and videos of themselves and one another to share at their discretion. This is perfectly legal as long as they provide consent. It becomes illegal when someone publishes these private photos online without permission from the subject. Distributing someone’s explicit images without their consent is a crime known as revenge porn, and Florida recently created a law specifically targeting this act.

If you or someone you know has been arrested or is under investigation for revenge porn, it’s crucial that you contact an experienced attorney to review your case as soon as possible. You could be facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, so it’s in your best interest to seek the advice of criminal defense counsel.

Attorney for Revenge Porn in Treasure Coast, FL

We represent clients across Treasure Coast, FL, from Port Salerno and Palm City to Stuart and Fort Pierce. If you’re in Martin County or St. Lucie County, you need Meltzer & Bell on your side. Our attorneys are equipped with years of experience and the knowledge necessary to defend against revenge porn and other sexual offense charges.

Call us at (772) 291-2534 or complete our online form to set up your free consultation with one of our dedicated lawyers.


Overview of Revenge Porn in Treasure Coast, FL


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Definition of Revenge Porn in Treasure Coast, FL

In legal terms, the posting of revenge porn (also known as nonconsensual porn or involuntary porn) is an act of sexual cyberharassment as defined by Florida Statute 784.049. To prove that an individual is guilty of posting revenge porn, it must be demonstrated that the accused:

  1. Published a sexual photo of a person to the Internet without that person’s consent and for no legitimate purpose;
  2. Published that person’s identification information along with the photo; and
  3. Intended to cause that person emotional harm.

If any of these elements are not proven, the prosecution may have a tough time getting a conviction, which means your charges could be dismissed. The best way to find out if your case qualifies for dismissal is to consult with an attorney from Meltzer & Bell for free; we can be reached at (772) 291-2534 or via our online form.


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Penalties for Revenge Porn in St. Lucie County, FL

If you’re convicted for publishing revenge porn in Treasure Coast, FL (including Port St. Lucie, Sebastian, Vero Beach, and Hobe Sound in Martin County and St. Lucie County), the sentence you receive depends on whether you’ve previously been convicted for sexual cyberharassment charges.

First-time offenders convicted of publishing revenge porn are charged with a first-degree misdemeanor, which brings a sentence of up to one year in prison and fines up to $1,000 as well as court costs.

Charges for prior offenders, on the other hand, are upgraded to a third-degree felony carrying a sentence of up to five years in prison and fines up to $5,000 as well as court costs.

If you’re accused of publishing revenge porn, your accuser also has the right to file suit against you in civil court. If the judge rules in their favor, you could be ordered to stop posting or remove previously posted photos. You may also be required to pay a minimum of $5,000 in damages as well as the accuser’s attorney fees and expenses. Don’t face this stressful situation alone – contact an experienced lawyer to discuss your case.


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Additional Resources

Sexual Cyberharassment | Florida Statutes Section 784.049 – An online version of Florida’s official laws is available on the legislature’s official website, Online Sunshine. This page contains the full text of the statute dealing with revenge porn, including a definition of sexual cyberharassment and the penalties one may expect to face if convicted.

Cyber Civil Rights Initiative (CCRI) | FAQs – The Cyber Civil Rights Initiative is a non-profit organization targeted at putting a stop to revenge porn. This resource offers a list of frequently asked questions relating to nonconsensual pornography.


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Defense Lawyer for Revenge Porn in Treasure Coast, FL

Revenge porn charges could lead to a misdemeanor or felony conviction, prison time, and a criminal record that any future employer will see when a background check is run. You are innocent until proven guilty, and you deserve a fair defense. Meltzer & Bell has successfully defended criminal cases similar to yours, and we’re here to help provide the best defense possible for you.

Don’t give up hope if you find yourself charged with sexual cyberharassment. All you have to do is call us at (772) 291-2534 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. We’re ready to talk to you year-round to hear your side of the story, learn more about the details of your case, and see what the next steps should be.


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