Has someone accused you of stalking them? Perhaps a situation that occurred between you and a loved one was really a misunderstanding. Maybe a former significant other is falsely accusing you. Regardless, you need to be proactive if you want to avoid being charged with a more serious crime.
Alleged stalking occurs when a person intentionally and repeatedly harasses another person. Aggravated stalking is willful, malicious, and repeatedly harassing or following someone and making credible threats of injury or death. There are different types of stalking which include cyber, workplace, and celebrity, but most stalking cases occur between spouses or estranged partners.
If you’ve been charged with stalking, consulting with a stalking defense lawyer in Tampa is beneficial. Depending on the facts of your situation, charges for other crimes such as intimidation, breaking and entering, or trespassing is a possibility.
Stalking cases have been on the rise in Florida and, as a result, strict anti-stalking laws are in effect. Victims of stalking can report a stalker’s behavior to law enforcement and file a restraining order to prevent a stalker from contacting or following them. Harassing behaviors such as threats, burglary, invasion of privacy, and violence will lead to an arrest.
Stalking is a first-degree misdemeanor which carries a punishment of up to a year in jail and a $1000 fine. If stalking progresses to aggravated stalking, it is a third-degree felony with potential imprisonment of up to 5 years along with a $5,000 fine.
A stalking charge shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’re considered a potential threat to children or their primary caregiver, for example, your custodial and other rights may be eliminated for their protection. It’s wise to review your legal options with a stalking defense lawyer in Tampa to ensure you will not face life-altering penalties. Our firm will take the steps necessary to challenge any restraining orders or stalking charges you may be facing by disproving the allegations against you which could include identifying flawed evidence, false allegations, and story inconsistencies.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.