The concept of revenge porn is a relatively new one in our society. Still, the seriousness of the matter became clear quite quickly, and lawmakers responded in many states by criminalizing this type of conduct.
While revenge porn can harm others, wrongful allegations or unfair prosecution for revenge porn can also seriously hurt lives. Further, anyone accused of a criminal offense in Texas has constitutional rights, including the right to a defense.
If you are facing allegations of committing revenge porn or related crimes, there is professional legal help available, and it is critical to consult with an experienced defense attorney.
At the Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak, we understand the devastating impact that revenge porn charges can have on a person’s life, reputation, and future. We know these accusations are often false or overblown, and we can investigate and build a defense based on your circumstances.
If you face criminal charges in Houston, contact us today at (832) 315-6283. Consultations are confidential, and we handle every case professionally.
Why Choose Us for Your Defense?
When facing revenge porn allegations, you need a skilled and experienced sex crime defense lawyer on your side. At the Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak, we have over 15 years of experience in criminal defense, including handling cases related to revenge porn.
Attorney Nathaniel Pitoniak is a former felony and chief prosecutor, and this experience brings invaluable insight into how prosecutors approach criminal cases, giving us a strategic advantage in defending our clients.
Our firm has handled many sex crime cases, including obtaining a pre-arrest rejection of charges in one child sex abuse case and a not-guilty verdict in an indecency case.
Nathaniel Pitoniak also convinced a jury to return a verdict of not guilty in a serious felony case with a possible prison sentence of 99 years. Following his closing arguments, one of the prosecutors even complimented him on his defense representation.
At our firm, we provide an honest assessment of your case and work tirelessly to build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.
We understand the nuances of revenge porn laws in Texas and are dedicated to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome. We do not shy away from tough cases and never hesitate to enter the courtroom when necessary to protect your rights.
Our office is located at 4115 Canal Street, Houston, TX 77003, and we serve all of Harris County, TX. Someone is available to take your call 24/7, so please reach out now if police arrested and accused you of revenge porn or related crimes.
Revenge Porn Laws in Texas
Revenge porn refers to the sharing, distribution, or publication of intimate or sexual images or videos without the consent of the individual depicted. In Texas, revenge porn is considered a criminal offense under the state’s Unlawful Disclosure or Promotion of Intimate Visual Material law.
According to this law, it is illegal to disclose or promote intimate visual material intending to harm, harass, intimidate, or defraud the depicted individual. This includes sharing explicit photos or videos online or through any other means without the person’s consent.
Revenge porn allegations might stem from posting images or videos on internet forums, websites, and social media or even sending them in emails, texts, or other private messages.
We know every element that prosecutors must prove to obtain a revenge porn conviction, and we challenge whether they can prove your charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
Penalties for Convictions
If convicted of revenge porn in Texas, the penalties can be severe. A first offense is considered a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $4,000. Subsequent offenses are elevated to third-degree felony charges, carrying a potential prison sentence of two to ten years and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
In addition to criminal charges, individuals found guilty of revenge porn may also face civil liability. The victim can file a civil lawsuit seeking damages for emotional distress, reputation damage, and other related harms.
A conviction can make it much easier for them to hold you civilly accountable, so avoiding a conviction whenever possible is important for this reason, as well.
Defending Against Revenge Porn Allegations
Being accused of revenge porn can be stressful, but remember that you have rights and options for a strong defense. Our Houston revenge porn defense lawyer has extensive experience handling these types of cases and will protect your rights.
Some of the potential defenses we may employ include:
- Lack of intent: We can thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged revenge porn incident and gather evidence to potentially show there was no intent to harm or defraud the depicted individual.
- Consent: If you can provide evidence that the person depicted in the intimate visual material consented to its distribution or publication, and you should not face criminal sanctions for revenge porn.
- Freedom of speech: We will explore whether sharing the material falls under protected speech or expression, arguing that it is not subject to criminal liability.
- False accusations: In some cases, an accuser may make maliciously false revenge porn allegations. Our Houston defense lawyer will uncover any evidence that supports your innocence and discredits the accuser.
The Importance of the Right Defense Lawyer
Choosing the right defense lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your revenge porn case. At the Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak, we have the knowledge, experience, and dedication to provide you with the strong defense you deserve.
We understand the unique challenges of revenge porn cases and will meticulously investigate every aspect to build a solid defense strategy.
Consult a Houston Revenge Porn Defense Attorney
If you face revenge porn allegations in Houston, consult a skilled revenge porn defense attorney as soon as possible. The Law Office of Nathaniel Pitoniak is here to help.
Contact our Houston revenge porn defense lawyers today at (832) 315-6283 for a confidential consultation. We are ready to represent you in your time of need and provide you with the compassionate and experienced legal representation you deserve.
