“Revenge porn” is the common term for the offence of disclosing private sexual photographs or videos without consent, with the intention of causing distress. It was introduced by section 33 of the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015. The law applies whether the images were shared online, through messaging apps, email, or even printed or shown to others in person.
The offence doesn’t just cover ex-partners posting images out of anger. It includes any situation where sexual images, taken privately, are shared without the person’s agreement and where it can be shown that the intent was to cause them distress. It can also apply even if the person sharing the material originally took the photo or video themselves.
The maximum sentence is two years’ imprisonment, and offenders can also face restraining orders, sex offender notification requirements, and long-term reputational damage. Because of how easily private material can spread online, even a single upload or message can have devastating consequences.
Why these cases are complicated
Revenge porn allegations often arise from relationship breakdowns, misunderstandings, or situations where consent around sharing isn’t clear. Sometimes images are shared automatically through cloud backups, old messages, or hacked accounts. In other cases, someone else may have accessed the material and posted it without the accused person’s knowledge. Establishing who actually uploaded or sent the image — and with what intent — is crucial.
These cases often involve digital forensics, social-media records, and disclosure of messages between the parties. They can be emotionally charged and highly intrusive, so having a calm, experienced solicitor guiding you through each step makes all the difference.
Why you need a solicitor
A good Criminal Defence Solicitor will make sure the police investigation remains fair, proportionate, and based on evidence rather than assumption. They will:
- Find out what material is alleged to have been shared, how it was obtained, and whether there is proof that you were the person who sent or uploaded it.
- Review the digital and metadata evidence to check for technical explanations such as hacked accounts, synced devices, or automatic backups.
- Attend and advise you at any police interview, ensuring your account is properly recorded and that questioning stays within lawful limits.
- Challenge whether the prosecution can prove both intent to cause distress and lack of consent — both of which must be shown for a conviction.
- Instruct digital-forensics experts or cyber specialists where necessary to analyse phone or account activity.
- Work with experienced Criminal Defence Barristers or King’s Counsel to prepare your defence and represent you in court if charged.
- If convicted, prepare mitigation and advise on potential appeal routes.
Because of the personal nature of these cases, discretion and sensitivity are essential. A solicitor with experience in sexual-image offences will protect your privacy wherever possible, deal directly with police digital-evidence units, and help manage the emotional impact on you and your family.
If you have any questions about revenge porn allegations, online image sharing, or what to do if the police have seized your phone — or if you need help identifying a solicitor experienced in these cases — please contact us using the links below.