Is Viewing Extreme Adult Content Illegal in England?

Question from mmm, Is Viewing Extreme Adult Content Illegal in England?

Answer from AI:

In England, the legality of viewing adult content depends on the nature of the content and the circumstances under which it is viewed. It’s important to distinguish between legal adult content and extreme or illegal adult content, which can include images or videos that depict acts that are considered to be extreme pornography under the law.

Understanding Extreme Pornography Laws

Under the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008, it is illegal to possess extreme pornographic images. The definition of extreme pornography is specific and includes material that:

• Portrays, in an explicit and realistic way, any of the following:
  1. Acts which threaten a person’s life,
  2. Acts which result in or are likely to result in serious injury to a person’s anus, breasts, or genitals,
  3. Bestiality, or
  4. Necrophilia.
• Is grossly offensive, disgusting, or otherwise of an obscene character, and
• Lacks any legitimate value, such as for purposes of scientific research, education, etc.

Viewing vs. Possession

While the act of simply viewing content online does not necessarily equate to possession, if the material is downloaded, saved, or otherwise stored on a device, it could be considered possession. The law is primarily concerned with possession, which includes having control over the images, such as having them on your computer or mobile device.

Legal Implications

If someone is found to be in possession of extreme pornographic material, they could face legal consequences, including prosecution. The law is designed to protect society from content that is considered harmful or offensive and to prevent the exploitation of individuals who may be involved in the production of such material.

When Viewing Might Lead to Possession

It’s important to note that even temporary files stored in a device’s cache while viewing content online could potentially be considered possession, depending on the circumstances and the intent of the user. If someone intentionally downloads or saves extreme content, this would clearly constitute possession.

Seeking Legal Advice

If you are concerned about the legality of content you have come across or if you are facing legal issues related to extreme adult content, it is crucial to seek personalized legal advice from a qualified solicitor. Legal professionals can provide guidance based on the specifics of your situation and the current laws in England.

For more information on the laws regarding extreme pornography in England, you can refer to the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008.

Remember, this information is not a substitute for personalized legal advice, and if you are in doubt about the legality of certain content, it is best to err on the side of caution and consult with a legal professional.