Facing accusations of threatening, stalking, or harassing someone can be terrifying and stressful, especially if the charges are false. Because these are serious offenses, you may face prison time, which can difficult to accept.
A West Palm Beach aggravated harassment lawyer at Leifert & Leifert can help by defending your rights and reputation. Contact one of our skilled stalking attorneys today to learn more about how we can help you with your charges.
Harassment Has Many Forms Under West Palm Law
Under West Palm Beach law, harassment is a crime that falls under stalking. According to Florida Statutes 784.048, harassment means engaging in any course of conduct targeting a specific individual that causes significant emotional distress and serves no legitimate purpose.
Moreover, willfully, maliciously, and repeatedly follow, harass, or cyberstalking another person is considered aggravated stalking in West Palm Beach. Either charge can result in serious consequences. Attempting to defend against harassment or aggravated harassment charges without the assistance of a Lawyer in West Palm Beach can be challenging. Working with a seasoned Leifert & Leifert attorney can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case.
Cyberstalking is Aggravated Harassment in West Palm Beach
When you use the internet or other technology to interact with the intent of harassing or threatening someone, it qualifies as cyberstalking. Based on the relevant facts of the case, a prosecutor can file cyberstalking charges at both the state and federal level.
Furthermore, various actions, including verbal abuse, sexual harassment, and repeated requests to meet in person or participate in a private online conversation, can result in cyberstalking charges. Email, text messages, personal blogs, and social media are the most common modes of communication for cyberstalking activities. An attorney with experience handling aggravated harassment cases in West Palm can help you obtain the best possible result in a cyberstalking case.
Penalties for Harassment and Aggravated Harassment in West Palm Beach
Because harassment can take various forms, the consequences can vary greatly in West Palm Beach. For instance, stalking that causes substantial emotional stress to another party and serves no legitimate purpose is classified as a class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and includes fines up to $1,000.
However, credible threats by a person with the intent to place someone in reasonable fear injury to themselves or a family member may result in charges of aggravated stalking, which is a more severe crime. Under Florida Statutes 784.048, aggravated stalking is a third-degree felony punishable by a maximum of 15 years in prison with fines upwards of $10,000. If someone stalks another person in violation of an order of protection, they will face charges of aggravated stalking, even when no threat was made to the other party. Understanding the various penalties which may apply in an aggravated harassment case in West Palm Beach requires legal assistance, which a skilled Leifert & Leifert Attorney is ready to provide.
A West Palm Beach Harassment Attorney Can Fight for You
Because many actions can result in harassment charges in West Palm Beach, defending against the charges can be difficult. The stress of a case is often worsened by the severity of the penalties for aggravated harassment.
A West Palm Beach aggravated harassment lawyer can provide the legal support and counseling you need. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation and discuss your aggravated harassment charges today.
