June 1, 2025 | By HJP Legal
Facing Criminal Charges as an OnlyFans or Content Creator? Content Creators Defense Attorney at HJP Legal Can Help.
The rise of digital content platforms like OnlyFans has provided creators with an unprecedented opportunity to monetize their work and engage with audiences in a personal and meaningful way. However, as the popularity of these platforms has grown, so have the legal challenges for creators. Particularly, accusations of human trafficking or cyberbullying can pose significant risks to a creator’s career and personal life.
At HJP Legal, we understand the complexity of these charges and the serious legal implications they carry. If you find yourself facing allegations of trafficking or harassment in Florida, California, or Michigan, it’s critical to understand the legal landscape in each state and how an experienced defense lawyer can help you navigate the challenges ahead. Whether you’re accused of exploiting individuals on OnlyFans or engaging in harmful online behavior, having the right legal counsel is essential to protecting your rights.
Human Trafficking Allegations: What You Need to Know in Florida, California, and Michigan
Human trafficking is one of the most severe charges a content creator can face. Both Florida, California, and Michigan have strong legal frameworks designed to prevent trafficking and sexual exploitation. Unfortunately, accusations of trafficking often arise due to a misunderstanding of how platforms like OnlyFans operate or due to direct exploitation by third parties. As a creator, it’s essential to understand the gravity of these charges and the potential consequences.
The Role of OnlyFans in Human Trafficking Allegations
While OnlyFans presents itself as a platform empowering creators to generate income from their content, the reality is more nuanced. The platform has faced scrutiny over its handling of explicit content, including issues related to child sexual abuse material (CSAM), underage content, and adult exploitation.
Human Trafficking Laws in Florida, California, and Michigan
All three states have aggressive anti-trafficking laws that impose heavy penalties for anyone convicted of trafficking, including those accused of facilitating or benefiting from trafficking. The key difference between these states is the scope of enforcement, penalties, and how trafficking is defined.
- Florida: Under Florida Statutes § 787.06, human trafficking for sexual exploitation is a first-degree felony, punishable by up to life in prison. Florida’s laws are particularly harsh for anyone accused of participating in trafficking, whether directly or indirectly.
- California: California Penal Code § 236.1 imposes penalties for human trafficking that range from three to eight years in prison. If minors are involved, the penalties increase significantly, with the potential for much longer prison terms.
- Michigan: Michigan’s human trafficking laws (MCL 750.462a-i) make it a felony to engage in trafficking, with penalties of up to 20 years in prison for first-degree trafficking. Michigan also recognizes aggravated trafficking, which involves minors or the use of force or coercion, and imposes even stricter penalties for these offenses.
Key Defense Strategies Against Human Trafficking Charges
- Lack of Knowledge or Intent: The strongest defense in trafficking cases often focuses on proving that the defendant had no knowledge of, nor intention to participate in, trafficking activities. For creators, this can mean demonstrating that they were unaware of any coercion or exploitation occurring through their content.
- Coercion by Third Parties: In many cases, the accused creator may be manipulated or controlled by a third party, such as a manager or “pimp,” who takes advantage of the creator’s success. If this was the case, the defense can focus on showing that the creator was a victim of manipulation and coercion, not the perpetrator.
- Platform Accountability: Both Florida and California, as well as Michigan, have laws that hold online platforms accountable for hosting exploitative material. If a creator’s content is being used for trafficking or exploitation without their knowledge, the defense could argue that the platform itself is liable for failing to enforce its own anti-trafficking policies.
Cyberbullying Allegations: Defending Against Online Harassment Claims
Another legal risk for creators is the potential for accusations of cyberbullying. With the increased use of social media and digital platforms for interaction, online harassment can lead to serious legal consequences. Whether it’s sending threatening messages, defaming someone, or engaging in other forms of online abuse, cyberbullying is a crime in Florida, California, and Michigan.
Cyberbullying and Cyberstalking Laws in Florida, California, and Michigan
- Florida: Florida’s Cyberstalking law (Fla. Stat. § 784.048) makes it a first-degree misdemeanor to engage in cyberstalking, with penalties that can include up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. If the stalking involves threats of violence or occurs repeatedly, it can be classified as a felony, leading to harsher penalties.
- California: California Penal Code § 653.2 criminalizes cyberstalking and online harassment, with penalties that can include up to five years in prison and hefty fines. California also has specific laws targeting “revenge porn” and online harassment of minors, which can overlap with cyberbullying cases.
- Michigan: Michigan’s law against cyberbullying (MCL 750.411s) makes it a misdemeanor to engage in online harassment or bullying. If the victim suffers substantial emotional distress, the penalty can increase to a felony, leading to a prison sentence of up to five years.
Key Defense Strategies Against Cyberbullying Allegations
- Freedom of Expression: Defendants may argue that the alleged cyberbullying was a form of free speech or artistic expression. If the creator’s content was misinterpreted, showing that the content was meant to provoke thought or engage in a creative dialogue can be a strong defense.
- Lack of Malicious Intent: Cyberbullying charges require proof that the accused intended to harass or harm the victim. A valid defense strategy would be to show that the online behavior was not intended to cause distress or harm, especially if it was part of a public persona or performance.
- No Actual Harm: In cyberbullying cases, proving actual harm is crucial. If the accuser cannot demonstrate that they experienced significant emotional or psychological damage, the case may lack merit. If the interactions were consensual or mutual, this can help defend against the allegations.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney in Human Trafficking and Cyberbullying Cases
Human trafficking and cyberbullying cases are complex and can carry severe legal consequences. Whether you’re in Florida, California, or Michigan, these charges can severely impact your future, both professionally and personally. Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the intricacies of online content creation and the laws governing it is essential for building a strong defense.
At HJP Legal, we specialize in defending content creators against trafficking and cyberbullying charges in Florida, California, and Michigan. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring you have the best possible chance at a favorable outcome.
Protecting Your Rights as a Content Creator
In the ever-evolving world of digital content creation, it’s crucial to understand the legal risks involved. If you are facing allegations of human trafficking or cyberbullying in Florida, California, or Michigan, you need a knowledgeable and compassionate defense attorney by your side.
At HJP Legal, we are here to help you navigate the legal complexities of these serious charges. Contact us today for a confidential consultation, and let us help you protect your future. Call HJP Legal today for a free consultation at (949) 340-0102 or 517-449-6544.
Facing Criminal Charges as a Content Creator in California, Florida or Michigan, Halley J. Peters Content Creators Defense Attorney at HJP Legal Can Help, Thank you for reading: Defending OnlyFans and Other Content Creators Accused of Human Trafficking or Cyberbullying.
