Being targeted through non-consensual image distribution can feel overwhelming and isolating. You deserve protection, accountability, and control over what happens next. We are here to explain your options and help you make informed decisions.
The non-consensual sharing or threat of sharing intimate images, often referred to as “revenge porn,” occurs when someone distributes private, nude, or sexual photographs or videos without consent. In many situations, the image may have originally been created or shared voluntarily. Consent to create or send an image does not mean consent to distribute it.
These cases may involve former partners, acquaintances, or individuals who obtained images through unauthorized access, including hacking into a phone, computer, or cloud-based storage. The harm can extend beyond the initial act, affecting personal safety, reputation, employment, relationships, and mental health.
Missouri law provides both criminal consequences and civil remedies for the non-consensual dissemination of sexual images. A person who shares intimate images without consent may face felony criminal charges, and Section 573.110 RSMo allows victims to pursue civil claims for monetary damages. A civil action may proceed alongside a criminal case and focuses on addressing the personal, professional, and financial harm caused by the conduct.
Revenge porn can have serious repercussions on a person’s career, relationships, and mental health. Donelan Law helps victims navigate the legal system with an individualized strategy tailored to each case.
Representation may include:
The goal is to help individuals regain control, protect their privacy, and pursue meaningful accountability.
Contact Donelan Law to discuss your options. If you are experiencing online abuse or the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, confidential support and guidance may be available through the following organizations:
Donelan Law combines privacy protection, civil litigation, and strategic legal guidance into a single coordinated approach. Each case is evaluated individually and handled with discretion and care.
Our clients receive:
In many cases, yes.
Courts often allow survivors of sexual exploitation and privacy violations to file lawsuits using initials or pseudonyms to protect their identities. We can discuss whether this is available in your jurisdiction.
Protecting your privacy is a top priority.
Yes. Consent to take or privately share an image is not consent to distribute it publicly.
If someone shared your intimate images beyond what you agreed to, you may have a legal claim.
There are many differences between criminal and civil cases:
1) Who decides to pursue charges.
In criminal cases, the State of Missouri or the federal government decides whether to pursue charges against a person when they have committed a crime.
In a civil action, the victim or their legal representative chooses to pursue legal action against the person or entity who caused them harm.
2) The kinds of justice and remuneration a case can achieve.
In a civil case, the victim usually seeks monetary compensation for damages.
In a criminal cases, the courts may award monetary restitution, but also can impose punishments such as fines, imprisonment, community service, court-ordered treatment, or other remedies.
3) The Standard of Proof required to achieve a result.
In civil cases, the standard of proof is generally lower than in criminal cases.
4) Impact on Related Cases
A criminal conviction can sometimes make the civil case more likely to be successful, but it is not necessary to file criminal charges. Even if a defendant is found not guilty in a criminal case, you still may be able to file a civil action against the abuser or a third party.
A victim can pursue a civil action whether or not a criminal case has also been filed.
It depends on several factors.
In most personal injury cases, Donelan Law works on a contingency basis. This means you do not pay a fee for the services unless we win and make a successful recovery. A personal injury case is a civil legal claim brought by an individual seeking compensation for wrongs committed by an individual or entities who caused them preventable harms and losses (i.e., suing an abuser or third party for money damages).
In other types of cases, Donelan Law can be hired for an hourly rate or a flat fee. For example, representation for obtaining an order of protection is often based on an hourly fee or a flat fee. After reviewing the facts of your case, we will let you know the initial retainer fee to open a case and candidly discuss potential costs from the beginning and throughout your case.
In many types of cases, Donelan Law only receives a fee after a monetary recovery has been made. However, in some legal battles with abusers, having an experienced attorney can make all the difference. Having an attorney as your advocate and legal representative can better protect your time, money, mental health and safety. Sarah has over 10 years of experience fighting for survivors of sexual and domestic violence and she understands the real dangers of some abusers and knows the complicated legal system.
Donelan Law understands that abusers can wreak havoc on all areas of your life, and you may need support with several issues. We are here to help you navigate whatever legal issues you are facing or make sure you find the right help. This might include defamation claims, criminal charges, and housing issues.
Please note: Donelan Law does not generally represent clients in family law cases (i.e., divorce and custody cases).
Time can matter, so speaking with an attorney promptly is important.
You may still have legal options. Threatening to distribute intimate images can constitute:
Early legal intervention can sometimes stop distribution before it happens.
Non-consensual dissemination of private images occurs when someone shares intimate photos or videos of you without your permission. This may include images originally shared privately within a relationship or obtained through hacking, coercion, or theft.
In many states, this conduct is both a crime and a civil wrong.
Yes! Donelan Law takes the utmost precautions to ensure your information stays private and it is always the individual’s decision whether or not to move forward with legal action.