FAQs about up skirting answered by defence solicitors ABV Solicitors There have been a lot of changes over the last four years in the UK relating to sexual harassment law. This has come as a welcome change for many, as there has been a lot of concern about women going out in public wearing skirts. And with more people having access to smartphones, this has led to a phenomenon known as up skirting, which is now considered to be a criminal act. According to a sexual offence solicitor, up skirting is now placed at the same level under sexual offence law as voyeurism. But if you are accused of up skirting, this is going to be an intimidating time as it is an extremely serious offence, and you will need to seek the advice of a trained and compassionate sexual offence solicitor. Of course, this may be the first time you have heard of up skirting, and you may have some questions about it. So, read on for the answers to the most common questions that a sexual offence solicitor will receive about up skirting. What is up skirting? Up skirting is now considered to be in the same category as voyeurism, which was once upon a time known as being a peeping, Tom. It is an intrusive act, according to a sexual offence solicitor, which involves one person knowingly taking photographs up someone's skirt of their underwear. It can also be performed by taking photos down somebody's shirt or up their trousers. This is done for the act of sexual gratification, and as the person in the photo is not aware, it is very invasive and threatening. I’ve been accused of up skirting; what should I do? When you find yourself on the receiving end of an accusation of up skirting, the first thing you should be doing is looking for a sexual offence solicitor to defend you. Remember, under UK law, this is no longer considered a minor thing, and it can result in consequences that can impact your current life and your future career roles. What is the sentence in the UK? As of the 12th of January 2019, if you are found guilty of committing the act of up skirting, you can face two years in jail. As you can see, this is a serious sentence, and as it will have an impact on your future career and your name, you should seek the help of a sexual offence solicitor as soon as you find out that you may be accused of this to prevent as much damage as possible. Will my name be put on the sex offenders register? Under UK law, if it has been deemed that you are guilty of up skirting, your name will be placed on the sex offender’s register. You can appeal against this but only with the help of a trained sexual offence solicitor, so aim to seek help from one of them as soon as you can. I’m innocent; why do I need a solicitor? If you are innocent of the accusation levied against you in relation to up skirting, then you will still need to contact a sexual offence solicitor. They will be able to prove your innocence and will be able to prevent you from having any of these serious consequences placed upon you. https://www.abvsolicitors.co.uk/services/sexual-offences/ https://www.gov.uk/government/news/upskirting-law-comes-into-force https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2003/42/contents