No one should have to live in fear of a stalker. Legal protection in the form of stalking protection is available to those concerned for their safety. If you are being stalked or have been accused of stalking our Seattle criminal defense attorney’s assistance will prove invaluable.
The Definition of Stalking
Stalking occurs when one repeatedly pesters or follows another person in a way that harasses or threatens. Even repeatedly behaving in a manner that makes another feel afraid constitutes stalking.
Moreover, undesirable electronic behavior constitutes a form of stalking referred to as cyberstalking. Such electronic stalking can occur through:
- Text messages
- Social media
- GPS tracking
- Emailing
Though stalking is demoralizing, annoying, and incredibly frustrating, it is quite common. As reported by the National Center for Victims of Crime, nearly 7 million United States residents are stalked each year.
As long as there is reasonable suspicion that the individual in question desires to harm and that his or her following or other behavior causes fear, stalking is occurring.
The Process for Obtaining a Stalking Protection Order
If you know or suspect you have a stalker on your tail, don’t be passive. Instead, be proactive by reaching out to a Seattle criminal defense attorney for assistance. We also provide legal guidance to those accused of stalking.
The process for obtaining a court order to protect against stalking requires the assistance of an attorney. Our legal team will amass evidence in support of a Protection Order presented before a judge. If the order is granted, you will be protected against the individual in question.
The legal process for such an order includes the naming of the respondent and petitioner. The respondent is the aggressor the court is to provide protection against. The petitioner is the individual requesting the Protection Order.
The petitioner submits the request for protection through an attorney. The court reviews the request. A hearing is then set at which the order is granted or denied. If the order is approved, it is to be served to the respondent.
How to Contest a Stalking Protection Order
If you are named in a stalking protection order, the most important thing you can do is find an experienced attorney. Your attorney will represent you at the hearing where he or she advocates for your freedom.
A Seattle criminal defense attorney presents facts in support of your character to prove you are not a threat to the accuser. Moreover, if the legal process necessary for obtaining a stalking protection order is not followed, the order will be nullified.
As an example, the failure to serve you with the notice of hearing, petition, and a temporary order (if entered), sets the stage for the order to be voided.
The Consequences of a Stalking Protection Order
Secure a Protection Order against the stalker and that individual will not be permitted to be in your vicinity. Nor will the aggressor be able to contact you, touch you, or otherwise harm you.
There is also the potential for legal action in the form of a civil lawsuit or criminal charges. The victim is legally empowered to sue the alleged stalker for financial and emotional damage. There are also criminal laws on the books to protect individuals from being stalked. If criminal charges are filed, the stalker might be penalized with imprisonment and a fine upwards of several thousand dollars.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Our Seattle criminal defense attorney is a call away. If you are being stalked or have been accused of stalking, contact Jennifer today to schedule a consultation.